Snorkel, swim, chill, braai in a paradise cove

35 braai spots, turquoise waters and a 45-year-old shipwreck

Last updated: Tuesday, 28 October 2025

Hidden less than 15 minutes from crowd favourites like Camps Bay and Clifton, this small seaside sanctuary gives you calm turquoise waters, shady braai nooks and secret coves framed by boulders. At Oudekraal you can snorkel, picnic, braai, or simply soak up a place that still feels like a local secret.

You can easily spend an entire day at Oudekraal. Image: @alxivnttc on Instagram

ONE OF THE BEST BEACHES TO SWIM  

The small beach is sheltered by smooth granite boulders that create gentle waters for casual swimmers and kids. It’s perfect for floating, bat-and-ball or sunbathing on the warm granite rocks.

Just beyond the cove lies a haunting relic of Cape Town’s maritime history. In 2022, the Antipolis, a Greek cargo vessel that ran aground in 1977, re-emerged from the sea during a major storm and now rests visibly on the rocks between Oudekraal and the Twelve Apostles Hotel.

It’s not recommended to get too close or climb the shipwreck but it's still a great sight to see and snap pictures of.

The shipwreck is visible from the shore between Oudekraal and the Twelve Apostles Hotel. Image: @lukemaximobell on Instagram

A FAVOURITE FOR SNORKELLING  

Because it’s a Marine Protected Area, the cove teems with sea life: Schools of Hottentot, red and orange sea anemones, striped klipfish and even harmless pyjama sharks weave through kelp forest and rocky gullies.

Snorkeling conditions are best between November and June when the water is calmer and visibility is higher. While the water is still chilly, a wetsuit isn’t essential for a short dip.

It’s a spot that leaves you in awe of its natural beauty. Image: @mimsemimsen on Instagram

SHADED BRAAI SPOTS & GRASSY PICNIC AREAS

There are 35 well-maintained braai spots dotted across the site, many of them tucked under milkwood trees or between boulders that lend privacy and shade. These fill up quickly in summer so be sure to arrive by 9am to claim one.

Nearby, the grassy picnic area with its round concrete tables and benches makes it easy to settle in for long, lazy afternoons. You’ll need to bring your own grid, tongs, wood, and charcoal.

The absence of commercial shops adds to the charm and asks you to come prepared and slow down. Image: @isaacs.chante on Instagram

R44 ENTRY FEE FOR LOCALS

Oudekraal is part of the Table Mountain National Park, which means there’s an entrance fee that goes directly toward maintaining the site and protecting its natural environment. It’s one of Cape Town’s very few paid beaches but that’s part of its appeal. The controlled access helps keep it clean, quiet and pristine.

Only card payments are accepted at the entrance gate.

Please note that alcohol is prohibited. Image: @capetown_guy on Instagram

HOW TO GET THERE & PARKING

Oudekraal is open daily from 8am to 6pm. It’s located just off Victoria Road, opposite the 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa. Keep a look out for the small SANParks sign too - it’s easy to miss. There is no wheelchair access and limited parking onsite (for 40 to 50 cars).

Once inside, the walkway leads past milkwoods and lawns to the beach, where you’ll see why this quiet cove is one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets. 

Mobility-impaired people should know that there are lots of steps to climb. Image: @weekendwarriors_za on Instagram

SPEND THE DAY AT OUDEKRAAL

Oudekraal is open: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 6pm
Find it: Oudekraal Beach, between Bakoven and Llandudno, opposite the 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa
Contact on: 021 712 7471, table.mountain@sanparks.org

By Khadeeja Adams 

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