Cape Town locals are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful locations, but if you’re looking for a spot that offers up magnificent views of the ocean and mountain as well as gorgeous people and top-notch cocktails, you can’t go wrong with Camps Bay.
Take a Stroll Along the Pipe Track
Before you head down to the ocean, take an early morning walk along the Pipe Track, which starts at the top of Kloof Nek. It’s a gentle, mildly undulating walk that follows an old water pipe along the top of Camps Bay. The view it affords you of the coastline and the Twelve Apostles is spectacular.
Brekkies at Mynt Café
All that walking is bound to work up an appetite. Your stomach – and wallet – will thank you for stopping in at Mynt Café. Situated on the swanky stretch of road opposite the beach, this casual eatery offers up unassuming food at affordable prices. Opt for healthy muesli or baked oats or indulge in the Morning After Breakfast that includes steak, bacon, beef sausage, eggs, potato rosti and baked beans!
Website: www.myntcafe.co.za
Soak Up the Sun at Camps Bay Beach
After gazing down at the clear azure ocean from the mountainside, you are going to want to get your feet wet. Be warned, though, the Atlantic waters at Camps Bay can be icy! The palm-lined beach is fabulous on a wind-free day. Hire some deck chairs and an umbrella, soak up the sun, and watch the beautiful people play frisbee and volleyball. Currents can be quite strong, so make sure you swim in areas watched over by the lifeguards.
Enjoy a Lazy Seafood Lunch at Blues
Blues Restaurant & Bar, which has been around since 1987, has become something of an institution in Camps Bay. The chic blue-and-white restaurant offers up Mediterranean-style dishes with a strong focus on seafood – think West Coast oysters and mussels, crayfish, and seafood pastas. For a slightly more relaxed experience, head over to the Codfather Seafood & Sushi Restaurant.
A firm favourite with locals and international visitors, this restaurant doesn’t actually have a menu. Your waiter will chat to you about day’s catch and help you create a meal that suits your taste and budget.
Website: www.blues.co.za
Browse the Camps Bay African Craft Market
On the side of the road between Camps Bay and Hout Bay, between the mountains and the big wide sea, you’ll find one of the most picturesque open-air markets in Cape Town. Stock up on African curios, animals hide, beaded jewellery, and leather items.
A Day at the Bay
Secure a day pass for the exclusive, and private, Sandy B cocktail bar at the Bay Hotel. Relax on a lounger, while sipping cocktails, and soaking in the glorious view unfolding before your eyes. Then, as the sun sets, the music is turned up and you can take transfer your cocktail drinking to the bar as the sun sets over the horizon. Guests can also order food from the hotel menu, make use of the hotel kayaks and SUPs.
Website: www.villagenlife.co.za
Steak at The Hussar Grill
If you are keen for a steak, head over to The Hussar Grill. There are a few of these restaurants dotted around Cape Town, but none with so stunning a view! There’s a reason why The Hussar Grill has been wowing meat-lovers for over half a century: they only serve AAA Grade meat. The restaurant boasts an impressive wine list, but – and this is perhaps even more impressive – you can bring your own for no extra fee!
Website: www.hussargrill.co.za
Fine Dining at The Roundhouse
Set in the forests of Camps Bay, with sweeping views over the coastline, The Roundhouse was once the hunting lodge of Lord Charles Somerset. These days it is no less swanky and set menus – which change weekly – offer up numerous courses of European-inspired cuisine with a distinctly South African flavour. It’s the kind of place you’ll save for special occasions… but who says that can’t be a regular old Saturday? If you want to experience the venue, but can’t afford the steep prices, The Rumbullion is a great option in summer. While away the afternoon on the terrace or lawns, whilst snacking on a tapas hamper full of charcuterie, delectable cheeses, salads and freshly baked breads.
Website: www.theroundhouserestaurant.com
Catch a Show at Theatre on the Bay
Established by South African stage great, Pieter Toerien, this intimate 238-seater venue offers up a variety of shows from drama to cabaret to comedy to musicals. Get there early and have a drink at Dietrich’s Bar (you can even take one with you into the theatre!) or a bite to eat at the Act 1 Theatre Café.
Website: www.facebook.com
Sing Your Heart Out at Dizzy’s Jazz Café
Okay, technically, you can only sing on Tuesday nights when the venue offers karaoke, but local bands and DJs will more than make up for that the rest of the week. The décor’s a little dingy, but if you are looking for a thin-based wood-fired pizza or some craft beer (nine craft beers on tap and over 20 different types in bottles), Dizzy’s is your spot.
Website: www.dizzys.co.za
