Things to do in and around Muizenberg

Muizenberg is a holidaymaker's paradise, with its pristine white beaches, warm water swimming and surfing, coffee shops, restaurants, supermarket, railway station, museums, children's playgrounds, waterslides and putt-putt - all within easy walking distance.

After many years of careful planning, the redevelopment of the Muizenberg beachfront is well underway and already, the beauty and vibrancy of what used to be South Africa's premier holiday destination, is back!

Enjoy amazing beach walks, with a 36km stretch of gently sloping, uninterrupted white sandy beaches beckoning to the west, and a coastal boardwalk meandering southwards. Taking the latter route leads you through the neighbouring village of St James [where you can cool-off in the tidal pool], and on to the quaint fishing village of Kalk Bay, where you can enjoy lunch at one of many excellent restaurants before walking, or taking the train back to Muizenberg.

Hiking in Table Mountain National Park is a popular activity where a myriad of trails and a labyrinth of caves can be explored.

Both the world-renowned Boulders Beach Penguin Colony and Cape Point Nature Reserve are located nearby, as is Chapmans Peak Drive and the Constantia Wine Route (all within 10 - 20km).

Whale-watching is a favourite pastime in the False Bay area from early August through to mid-October each year. Enjoy whale spotting from the comfort of your balcony, or you can take a stroll along the coastline for more intimate views of these fascinating, gigantic mammals frolicking in the sunshine. The best whale watching locations can be found along the Cape Point Route and whale watching trips are offered from Simon's Town harbour.

Convenient half-hourly train trips can be taken from Kalk Bay and St James railway stations, to Cape Town or Simon's Town. The tracks hug the False Bay coastline for much of the way and both trip can be fun family excursions if you include sight-seeing in Simon's Town or Cape Town.

Kalk Bay, a quaint fishing village and harbour is within walking distance where bartering with the colourful local fishermen for the catch of the day is a popular local custom. The village has a bohemian atmosphere and a morning spent exploring the various curio shops, antique dealers, restaurants, coffee shops and art dealers is a rewarding experience.

Simons Town (historic head quarters of the South African Navy) is a short drive away and offers a naval museum, interesting toy museum, dockside restaurants, trips to Seal Island and penguin watching at Boulders Beach.

Central Cape Town, Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Robben Island and The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront are all within a radius of 35 minutes by road.