Cape Town is one of those rare cities where dramatic mountains crash into a sparkling ocean, and every curve in the road reveals a new postcard view. At its heart stands Table Mountain, the flat-topped giant that defines the skyline. Just beyond, some of the world’s most scenic coastal drives wrap around cliffs and coves, linking fishing villages, wine valleys, and white-sand beaches.
Whether you are planning your first trip to South Africa or returning for another dose of Atlantic sunsets, understanding what to see in Cape Town around Table Mountain and its coastal routes will transform a good vacation into an unforgettable journey.
Hiking in Cape Town
Chapman’s Peak Drive
Cape Peninsula road trip
Scenic routes and beaches
Why Table Mountain and Coastal Drives Define Cape Town
If you had just a few days in the Mother City, two experiences would capture its essence better than any others: standing on top of Table Mountain and driving the coastal roads that frame the Cape Peninsula. Together, they offer a complete sense of place: the vertical drama of sandstone cliffs, the horizontal sweep of the ocean, and the way Cape Town’s neighborhoods tuck themselves into the spaces between.
Table Mountain: The City’s Natural Lighthouse
Visible from almost every angle, Table Mountain is more than a landmark; it is a compass. Locals orient themselves with phrases like “over the mountain” or “on the City Bowl side.” From the summit plateau, you see the Atlantic Ocean, Robben Island, Lion’s Head, and the suburbs spilling towards the wine country. In a single panoramic sweep, you grasp how Cape Town fits between rock and sea.
Coastal Drives: The Soul of the Cape Peninsula
Cape Town’s coastal drives sit comfortably alongside the world’s great scenic routes. The road wraps itself around cliffs, slips between boulder-strewn beaches, and threads through villages where time seems to move more slowly. Each segment has a different personality: some rugged, some glamorous, some wild and windswept. Driving them is not just about getting somewhere; it is about savoring each viewpoint where you will want to pull over and stare.
Exploring Table Mountain: Cableway, Hikes, and Hidden Corners
When travelers ask what to see in Cape Town first, locals often say: “Check Table Mountain’s weather, and if it’s clear, go up today.” Clouds can roll in quickly, and the legendary “tablecloth” of mist frequently drapes the summit. Here is how to experience the mountain in different ways.
1. Table Mountain Aerial Cableway: Effortless Views
The fastest and easiest way to reach the summit is the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. In a few minutes, you glide from Tafelberg Road to the flat summit, with the rotating cabin giving everyone a 360-degree view. For many visitors, this is the most practical option—especially on a short city break.
- Best for: First-time visitors, families, travelers short on time, and anyone with limited mobility.
- What to see at the top: Marked walking paths, view decks over the City Bowl, Lion’s Head and Signal Hill viewpoints, and the vast sweep of the Twelve Apostles mountain range marching down the coast.
- Time needed: Allow at least 2–3 hours for the round trip and time on the summit; longer if you like to linger over photos and snacks.
2. Classic Hikes Up (and Down) Table Mountain
For active travelers, hiking Table Mountain is one of the most rewarding things to do in Cape Town. Routes vary from short but steep stair-like trails to longer, more remote adventures. Always allow more time than you think, and never underestimate the heat, wind, or changing weather.
Platteklip Gorge: The Direct Route
Platteklip Gorge is the most popular hiking trail to the summit. It climbs directly up the front face of the mountain in a series of stone steps and switchbacks.
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous; very steep but straightforward, with no technical climbing.
- Time: 1.5–3 hours up, depending on fitness and heat; many hikers take the cableway down.
- Highlights: Constant views over the city, clear path, and the satisfaction of reaching the plateau on your own two feet.
Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine: Forest to Fynbos
Starting in the lush Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden on the eastern slopes, Skeleton Gorge and nearby Nursery Ravine offer a completely different side of Table Mountain. Here the path winds through indigenous forest before emerging onto the rocky top, with dams and sandy paths leading across the plateau.
- Difficulty: Strenuous; includes ladders, steep sections, and uneven terrain.
- Time: 4–6 hours for a loop or through-hike combining the gorge, plateau, and cableway or contour paths.
- Highlights: Shaded forest, birdlife, seasonal streams or waterfalls, and sweeping views over the Constantia Valley and False Bay.
3. Easy Summit Walks and Secret Corners
You do not need to be a serious hiker to enjoy the subtlety of Table Mountain. Even after taking the cableway, there are gentle loop walks and quieter viewpoints where you can escape the crowds near the main station.
- Summit loops: The marked circular paths let you explore different angles of the plateau, from dramatic cliffs to tiny pockets of fynbos, the unique floral kingdom of the Cape.
- Flora and fauna: Look for proteas, ericas, and restios, along with rock hyrax (dassies), lizards, and a variety of birds. Please observe from a distance and never feed wildlife.
- Quiet viewpoints: If you follow the paths away from the main lookout areas, you can often find peaceful spots to sit and watch the changing light over the Atlantic.
Lion’s Head and Signal Hill: Iconic Sidekicks to Table Mountain
What to see in Cape Town is not limited to the flat-topped giant itself. Two neighboring peaks—Lion’s Head and Signal Hill—offer equally memorable perspectives on the city and the ocean, with shorter walks and legendary sunsets.
Lion’s Head: Spiraling Up to Sunset
The conical peak of Lion’s Head is instantly recognizable from photographs of Cape Town, usually standing shoulder to shoulder with Table Mountain. The trail to its summit spirals gradually around the mountain, revealing different angles of the city bowl, Table Bay, and the Twelve Apostles as you climb.
- Time and difficulty: 1.5–3 hours round trip; moderate, with a few sections using staples and chains (there is often an easier alternative path around them).
- Best time: Late afternoon for sunset; the city lights below and the last glow on Table Mountain are unforgettable.
- Atmosphere: Social and lively, especially on weekends and full-moon evenings, when many locals head up for a night hike.
Signal Hill: Easy Access Views
For travelers who prefer minimal walking, Signal Hill is one of the most accessible viewpoints in Cape Town. A paved road leads to the top, where you can watch paragliders take off, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the views of the Atlantic Seaboard, Green Point, and the harbor.
- Best for: Sunset picnics, easy photo stops, and travelers with limited mobility or time.
- What you will see: Lion’s Head up close, the full curve of Table Bay, Robben Island in the distance, and the city’s high-rises fanning out below.
What to See on Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard
When you look down from Table Mountain, you see a sparkling line of suburbs hugging the Atlantic coast. Collectively known as the Atlantic Seaboard, this stretch from the V&A Waterfront through Sea Point, Clifton, and Camps Bay offers some of the most glamorous and accessible coastal scenery in Cape Town.
Sea Point Promenade: Walk, Run, or Roll by the Sea
Start your coastal exploration with a stroll along the Sea Point Promenade. This wide, flat path runs for several kilometers along the ocean, perfect for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and families.
- Atmosphere: Lively and local, with dog walkers, ice cream stands, outdoor gyms, and art installations.
- Views: Rocky shoreline, crashing waves, and occasional pods of dolphins or whales in season.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly in many sections, with benches and open lawns along the way.
Clifton Beaches: Four Perfect Coves
Just around the bend from Sea Point, Clifton’s four beaches—Clifton 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th—nestle between granite boulders. Each cove has its own personality, but they all share powdery sand, turquoise water, and dramatic mountain backdrops.
- Water temperature: Bracingly cold, thanks to the Atlantic currents; refreshing on a hot summer day.
- Best for: Sunbathing, people-watching, and sunset picnics. The light on the Twelve Apostles in the late afternoon is spectacular.
- Access: Expect stairs down from the road; parking can be limited in peak season, so arrive early.
Camps Bay: Glamour Under the Twelve Apostles
If Clifton is chic and tucked away, Camps Bay is open, showy, and social. A long palm-lined beach stretches along the bay, with the rugged Twelve Apostles towering behind and a strip of cafés and restaurants across the road.
- What to see: Panoramic sunsets over the Atlantic, surfers chasing waves, and Table Mountain’s cliffs glowing orange as the sun drops.
- Why stop here: It is an easy place to blend beach time with a drink or meal, especially in the golden hour.
- Driving tip: Camps Bay is also a natural starting point for continuing along the coastal road towards Llandudno and Chapman’s Peak Drive.
Chapman’s Peak Drive: One of the World’s Great Coastal Roads
When travelers ask what to see in Cape Town beyond the city center, locals almost always mention Chapman’s Peak Drive. This legendary road clings to the side of Chapman’s Peak between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, carving its way through tunnels and cuttings that overlook sheer drops to the ocean below.
Driving the Route: What to Expect
The drive is relatively short—about 9 kilometers—but every bend feels like a new scene. There are numerous lookout points with safe pull-offs where you can stop for photos, snacks, or just a few quiet minutes watching the birdlife and waves.
- Direction: Many people drive from the Hout Bay side towards Noordhoek to put the ocean on their right, but both directions are beautiful.
- Speed: The road is narrow and winding, with low speed limits. This is not a place to rush; it rewards slow, careful driving.
- Stops: Designated viewpoints are clearly marked. Some have picnic tables and simple facilities; all have unforgettable views.
Best Time to Drive Chapman’s Peak
Light and weather dramatically shape the experience of this road.
- Morning: Clearer air and fewer cars; great if you are including it in a full-day Cape Peninsula loop.
- Late afternoon: Warmer light and glowing cliffs, but more traffic during peak seasons.
- Weather checks: The road can close in strong wind or after rockfalls. Always check local information on the day of your drive.
Cape Peninsula Coastal Drive: From City to Cape Point
One of the most satisfying ways to combine Cape Town’s mountain and ocean scenery is a full-day Cape Peninsula coastal drive. This loop traces the edge of the peninsula, connecting fishing villages, nature reserves, and wild beaches.
Suggested Route Overview
While you can drive this circuit in either direction, many travelers prefer going clockwise, starting on the Atlantic Seaboard and returning via False Bay.
- Cape Town → Camps Bay → Hout Bay
- Hout Bay → Chapman’s Peak Drive → Noordhoek
- Noordhoek → Kommetjie → Scarborough
- Scarborough → Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope
- Cape Point → Simon’s Town (penguins) → Kalk Bay → Muizenberg
- Muizenberg → M3 or M5 back to the city
Highlights Along the Way
This route weaves together landscapes and experiences that make it easy to understand why the peninsula is so often described as a world in one day.
Hout Bay: Harbor and Mountain Bowl
Surrounded by mountains on three sides and the ocean on the fourth, Hout Bay feels like a small town pressed into a natural amphitheater. It is an ideal place to stop for coffee or a harbor walk before tackling Chapman’s Peak.
Kommetjie and Scarborough: Surf and Seclusion
South of Noordhoek, the road reaches quieter communities like Kommetjie and Scarborough. Here you find long, windswept beaches, surf breaks, and a slower rhythm than the city’s.
- What to see: Historic lighthouse at Slangkop Point, stretches of white sand, and powerful waves.
- Best for: Scenic photo stops, beach walks, and feeling the wild Atlantic at its most raw.
Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope: Where Oceans Meet
Inside the Table Mountain National Park – Cape Point section, the landscape shifts to rugged headlands, rolling fynbos, and cliffs that plunge into the sea. Many visitors consider this the emotional high point of the entire peninsula drive.
- Cape of Good Hope: The famous sign and viewpoint at the southwestern tip of the peninsula, often surrounded by curious baboons (keep a respectful distance and secure your food).
- Cape Point Lighthouse: Accessed by a short steep walk or a funicular, this vantage point looks out over rocky promontories and seemingly endless ocean.
- Wildlife: Eland, bontebok, ostriches, and more may appear alongside the road or on the hillsides.
Simon’s Town and Boulders Beach: Penguins at Your Feet
On the way back up the False Bay side, the historic naval town of Simon’s Town gives way to the granite boulders and sheltered coves of Boulders Beach, home to a famous colony of African penguins.
- Experience: Boardwalks guide you over dunes and through fynbos to viewing platforms where penguins waddle, swim, and nest.
- Respectful visits: Stay on marked paths, never touch or feed the penguins, and keep noise low—this is their home first, your attraction second.
Kalk Bay and Muizenberg: Old Harbors and Surf Culture
Further north along False Bay, Kalk Bay blends working fishing harbor, tidal pools, and character-filled streets. Beyond it, Muizenberg is known for its gentle waves and colorful beach huts, making it a hub for beginner surfers and families.
- What to see in Kalk Bay: Fishing boats, seals, and tidal pools that offer sheltered seawater swimming.
- What to see in Muizenberg: Long sandy beach, surf schools, and iconic huts that are a photographer’s favorite.
Practical Tips for Enjoying Table Mountain and Coastal Drives
To make the most of what to see in Cape Town around Table Mountain and its coastal roads, it helps to think like a local: stay flexible, respect the elements, and prioritize safety.
Best Time of Year to Visit
Cape Town has a Mediterranean-style climate with wet winters and dry summers, but each season has its own charm.
- Summer (December–February): Long days, warm temperatures, busy beaches, and vibrant outdoor life. Expect crowds and book popular activities ahead.
- Shoulder seasons (September–November, March–May): Often the sweet spot, with milder temperatures, fewer visitors, and good visibility for hikes and drives.
- Winter (June–August): Cooler and wetter, but dramatic skies, fewer tourists, and some crystal-clear days that are perfect for photography.
Weather and Safety on Table Mountain
- Check the forecast: Cloud and wind are your main concerns. The cableway may close in strong wind, and mist can obscure paths.
- Dress in layers: Even on a hot day in town, the summit can be windy and cool.
- Stay on marked paths: Shortcuts can quickly lead into dangerous terrain. If in doubt, turn back.
- Hydration and sun: The African sun is strong. Take water, sunscreen, and a hat for any outdoor activity.
Driving Tips for Coastal Routes
- Drive on the left: South Africa follows left-hand traffic. Take it slow until you are fully comfortable.
- Plan fuel and rests: While you will not be far from services, it is easier to top up in main areas before long scenic stretches.
- Use designated stops: On routes like Chapman’s Peak, only stop at marked viewpoints, not in narrow shoulders or corners.
- Leave extra time: The views are irresistible; you will want to stop more often than you expect.
Combining City Sights with Nature
Cape Town’s appeal lies in how easily you can blend cosmopolitan experiences with wild landscapes. A typical three- or four-day itinerary might weave together Table Mountain, coastal drives, and urban highlights like markets and museums.
Sample 3-Day Outline
- Day 1: Table Mountain (cableway or hike) and V&A Waterfront in the afternoon.
- Day 2: Full-day Cape Peninsula drive including Chapman’s Peak, Cape Point, and Boulders Beach.
- Day 3: Atlantic Seaboard beaches, Lion’s Head or Signal Hill, and dinner in the city bowl or along the coast.
What to Pack for Mountain and Coast
- Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots.
- Windproof jacket and a warm layer.
- Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Reusable water bottle and small daypack.
- Camera or smartphone with enough storage for all those panoramas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Table Mountain and Cape Town’s Coastal Drives
How many days do I need to see Table Mountain and the main coastal drives in Cape Town?
You can experience Table Mountain and at least one major coastal drive in two full days, but three to four days gives you a much more relaxed pace. With three days, you can dedicate one to Table Mountain and nearby viewpoints like Lion’s Head or Signal Hill, one to a full Cape Peninsula coastal loop including Chapman’s Peak Drive and Cape Point, and one to exploring the Atlantic Seaboard beaches and Sea Point Promenade. Extra days allow for weather flexibility, which is important for both the summit and scenic drives.
Is it better to hike Table Mountain or take the cable car?
Both options are excellent but suit different travelers. The cable car is ideal if you have limited time, are traveling with children or people with reduced mobility, or prefer a less strenuous visit. Hiking offers a deeper, more physical connection with the mountain and is rewarding if you enjoy outdoor challenges and are comfortable with steep terrain and variable weather. Many visitors combine the two by hiking up via Platteklip Gorge or another trail and taking the cableway down, which reduces strain on knees and saves time.
Do I need a car to enjoy Cape Town’s coastal drives?
Having your own car gives you maximum freedom to stop at viewpoints, explore side roads, and set your own schedule, which is especially useful on Chapman’s Peak Drive and the full Cape Peninsula loop. However, you can still enjoy coastal scenery without driving yourself. Organized day tours follow similar routes and include key stops, and certain sections like the Sea Point Promenade and the Atlantic Seaboard between the Waterfront and Camps Bay are accessible by taxi, rideshare, or local transport. Your choice depends on your comfort with left-hand driving and how independently you want to travel.
Is Chapman’s Peak Drive safe to drive?
Chapman’s Peak Drive is carefully monitored and maintained, with protective structures and regular inspections. It is considered safe to drive when open, provided you obey the speed limits, drive cautiously around corners, and stop only at designated viewing areas. The road may close temporarily in strong winds or after heavy rain due to rockfall risk. If it is closed, respect the closure signs and choose an alternative route until it reopens. Always check local updates on the day you plan to drive this spectacular stretch.
What should I wear for visiting Table Mountain and the coast?
Layers are essential. Even if the city below is warm, the top of Table Mountain can be significantly cooler and windier, especially near the cliff edges. Wear comfortable walking shoes, a light but wind-resistant jacket, and bring a warmer layer you can add or remove as needed. Along the coast, temperatures can drop quickly with ocean breezes, so a light sweater or jacket is useful even in summer evenings. Sun protection—a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—is important all year round.
When is the best time of year to see Cape Town’s coastal scenery at its best?
Coastal scenery in Cape Town is beautiful throughout the year, but many travelers favor the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). During these periods, temperatures are usually mild, the light is soft, and there are fewer crowds on the roads and beaches. Summer offers long days and vibrant energy but can be hot and busy, while winter brings more dramatic skies, fewer visitors, and some exceptionally clear days that are fantastic for photography on both Table Mountain and the coastal routes.