Snorkel, Swim, Chill, Braai in a Paradise Cove

Perfect for capturing insta’ worthy pictures + see a 45-year old shipwreck

Oudekraal beach is tucked away in a cove between Bakoven and Llandudno. It's opposite the 12 Apostles Hotel and is part of the Table Mountain National Park, a little treasure of a beach where you can picnic, braai, swim or snorkell to a 45-year-old shipwreck, or simply relax and soak up the sun. The scenery is gorgeous – it's great for 'gram-worthy images. You can even host an event here. 

Enjoy the sun while chilling on a rock - do it for the ‘gram. Image: @weekendwarriors_za

SWIM IN THE GENTLE WAVES  

The small, sandy beach is sheltered by boulders, creating a swimming area with gentle swells and calm swimming conditions. Because no boats are allowed, it’s a great place for children to splash in the shallows, but keep an eye on them because there is no lifeguard on duty. The beach is ideal for sunbathing or chilling, but big enough to play bat and ball.

Splash into the calm, family-friendly waters. Image: @evansnlr

BRING SNORKELLING GEAR TO SEE SEA LIFE  

It's worth bringing snorkelling gear because there’s plenty to see in the cove near the shore. This Marine Protected Area is a popular diving spot because of the rich marine life. The underwater Justin’s Caves offers kelp forests and colourful scenery and the wreck Het Huis te Kraaiestein (1670), is the oldest in the country. There’s even a seal colony called Strawberry Rocks nearby. Snorkelling and freediving are permitted, but you’ll require a permit for scuba diving.

There is a lot to do and see at Oudekraal beach. Image: @mimsemimsen 

CHECK OUT A SHIPWRECK WASHED ASHORE

A large portion The Antipolis, 45-year-old shipwreck washed ashore on 20 January 2022, between the Oudekraal beach and Twelve Apostles Hotel in Camps Bay, Cape Town. While it is not recommended to get too close or climb the shipwreck, it is still a great sight to see and snap pictures of. 

Take a picture next to The Antipolis which sank in 1977. Image: @barefoot_productions

IT'S ONE OF THE BEST BEACHES TO HAVE A BRAAI

There are 35 well-maintained braai sites scattered over the area, so take a walk down the paths and stake out a spot. The Milkwood trees and boulders provide some privacy from your neighbours. Make sure you bring everything you need with you because there are no shops. There’s a strict no-alcohol policy here with the exception of the gazebo, which is available for hire for private events.

Picnic, braai and have a great day with friends and family. Image: @marlon_van_diemen

HOLD AN EVENT, WEDDING OR FUNCTION HERE

For an extra special wedding, birthday or any other celebration, you can hire out the entire venue (it accommodates 350 people). You may hold your wedding ceremony on the beach - but there are additional requirements which you’ll need to enquire about. There’s a gazebo with power points and a roof with no sides, permanent picnic tables, and this can accommodate up to 100 guests. This is the only place at Oudekraal where alcohol is permitted and you’re allowed to play music on a CD player. If you’re on a smaller budget, the gazebo can be booked for your event between 8:30am and 4:30pm. Even if the gazebo is booked, the rest of Oudekraal remains open to the public. Call +27 (0)21 712 0527 to make a booking for a function or event.

Gazebo price: Application fee: R345; hire fee: R3930; entrance fee/conservation fee: R32/person in addition to the venue hire fee
Exclusive use events: R39850
Wedding ceremonies on the beach: R80 per person plus the conservation fees of R32 per person

Book this space for your next celebration. Image: SANParks

THE STORY BEHIND OUDEKRAAL'S HISTORY

Oudekraal is a significant historical and spiritual site for the Muslim community. At the turn of the 18th century, it was a refuge for slaves who had escaped from the colonial authorities and their masters. Among them were Muslim spiritual leaders who had been captured and brought to the Cape after leading uprisings against slavery in the Dutch East Indies. The Oudekraal ravines provided seclusion and safety for them and allowed them to teach their disciples and keep Islam going in the Cape.

Visit this beautiful historical site in Cape Town. Image: @isaacs.chante

WHEN + WHERE TO GO  

Oudekraal is open: Monday to Sundays, 8am to 6pm

Find it: Oudekraal, between Bakoven and Llandudno, opposite the 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa

Contact the Kloofnek office on: 021 422 1601

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DISCOVER MORE BEACHES AND BRAAI SPOTS

See all the other things you can do this weekend.

Dig your toes in the sand at these beaches in the Cape and take note of the best surf spots.

Become a braai master at these beautiful Cape Town braai spots.

Splash into these public swimming pools.

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