Camps Bay is Cape Town’s most glamorous and accessible family beach, a wide white-sand stretch backed by the dramatic Twelve Apostles mountain range. Entry is free and the beach has public restrooms and a lifeguard presence during peak summer months (November through March). The Atlantic Ocean water is famously cold — typically around 14-16 degrees Celsius (57-61F) — so come expecting kids to splash rather than swim for long. The beach gets very crowded on weekends; arrive by 9am to secure a good spot and parking. The palm-lined promenade behind the beach has ice cream shops, cafes, and restaurants at a range of price points — budget for at least a snack stop.

Address: Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

Google Maps: Click here for directions

Cost: Free