False Bay Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay and more in False Bay, South Africa. Plan your trip to this beautiful destination with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to False Bay

False Bay is a picturesque bay located on the Cape Peninsula in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse marine life, and unique cultural attractions. Here, visitors can explore a wide range of activities, from hiking and fishing to surfing and kayaking. The region is also steeped in history, and visitors can visit museums and sites that tell the story of the area’s fascinating past.

List of Places to Visit in False Bay

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Simon’s Town Museum: Situated in the historic naval town of Simon’s Town, the museum houses artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the town’s rich history. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in naval history and culture.

  • Cape Point Nature Reserve: Home to two lighthouses that date back to the 19th century. The reserve also boasts numerous hiking and walking trails that provide stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape.

  • Kalk Bay: A charming fishing village that is home to numerous art galleries, shops, and cafes. Visitors can explore the harbor and the vibrant community that has grown up around it.

Natural Attractions of False Bay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Boulders Beach: Famous for its penguin colonies, this beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the warm waters of False Bay. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or simply watch the penguins go about their daily business.

  • Table Mountain National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a wide range of flora and fauna, along with stunning views of the city and the coastline. The park is home to numerous hiking trails, including the famous Cape of Good Hope hike.

  • Seal Island: Located just off the shore of False Bay, this small island is home to a large colony of Cape fur seals. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the seals up close and learn about their behavior and habitat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of False Bay

  • Cape of Good Hope Hiking Trail: This challenging hike covers 33.8 km and takes visitors through some of the most stunning scenery in the region. The trail starts in Cape Point and winds through the Table Mountain National Park, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape.

  • Silvermine Nature Reserve Hiking Trail: This popular trail is suitable for hikers of all skill levels, and covers a distance of 6.5 km. It winds through the Silvermine Nature Reserve, offering stunning views of False Bay and the coastline.

  • Ou Kaapse Weg Cycle Route: This popular cycling route covers a distance of 21.3 km and offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. The route starts in Noordhoek and follows Ou Kaapse Weg, a scenic mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in False Bay: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing: False Bay is known for its great surf, and visitors can rent boards and wetsuits from a number of local surf shops.

  • Kayaking: Visitors can explore the coastline from the water by renting a kayak and paddling around the bay.

  • Fishing: False Bay is a great place to fish, with numerous local companies offering fishing charters and guided tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for False Bay

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Simon’s Town and visit the Simon’s Town Museum
Day 2 Hike the Table Mountain National Park Trail
Day 3 Visit the Cape of Good Hope and see the lighthouses
Day 4 Take a boat tour to Seal Island
Day 5 Visit Kalk Bay and explore the harbor and village
Day 6 Go surfing or kayaking in False Bay
Day 7 Relax on the beach at Boulders Beach and watch the penguins

Food and Drink Scene of False Bay

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bobotie: A traditional South African dish made with spiced ground meat and topped with a custard-like mixture.

  • Braai: A South African-style barbecue, usually consisting of grilled meat, sausage, and vegetables.

  • Malva pudding: A sweet and sticky pudding made with apricot jam and served with custard.

Local Beverages

  • Pinotage: A red wine grape variety that is unique to South Africa.

  • Rooibos tea: A caffeine-free herbal tea that is grown exclusively in South Africa.

  • Castle Lager: A popular South African beer.

Where to Stay in False Bay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Inn at Castlebay: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of Simon’s Town, and offers stunning views of the bay and the nearby mountains.

  • Bella Vista Guest House: This stylish guest house is located in the upmarket suburb of Glencairn Heights, and offers easy access to local hiking trails and scenic drives.

  • Ocean View House: This luxury boutique hotel is located in the seaside village of Bakoven, and offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains.

What to Buy in False Bay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local crafts: Visitors can browse a wide range of locally-made crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and hand-woven textiles.

  • African masks and art: False Bay is home to a number of art galleries and shops that specialize in African art and masks.

  • South African wine: Visitors can sample and purchase a wide range of South African wines, including the famous pinotage grape variety.

Local Culture and Customs of False Bay

False Bay has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore the region’s history through its museums, art galleries, and historic sites. The local people are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to learn about the region’s history and customs.

Best Time to Visit False Bay

The best time to visit False Bay is during the summer months, from November to March. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is perfect for swimming and water sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of False Bay

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Take care when swimming or participating in water sports.

  • Support local businesses and craftsmen by purchasing their products.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended on the beach.

  • Ignore warning signs or advice from locals regarding dangerous or unstable areas.

  • Disrespect the natural environment by littering or damaging local habitats.

Safety and Health

Safety in False Bay

False Bay is generally a safe place to visit, with low levels of crime and violence. However, visitors should exercise common sense and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Health in False Bay

Visitors should ensure that they have up-to-date vaccinations and take precautions to prevent malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of sunburn and take care to protect themselves from the sun.

Getting to False Bay: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near False Bay

  • Cape Town International Airport: This is the closest airport to False Bay, and is located approximately 35 km away.

Bus Stations Near False Bay

  • None

Other Options

  • Car hire: Visitors can hire a car in Cape Town and drive to False Bay, taking in the stunning scenery along the way.

  • Taxi: Visitors can take a taxi from Cape Town International Airport or from other areas of the city.

How to Get Around in False Bay

The best way to get around False Bay is by car, as this allows visitors to explore the region’s many attractions and scenic drives. Alternatively, visitors can take a taxi or hire a bicycle to explore the local area.

Where to Go Next from False Bay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cape Town: Just a short drive from False Bay, Cape Town is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a wide range of attractions, including museums, art galleries, and trendy cafes and restaurants.

  • Stellenbosch: Known for its historic architecture and world-famous wines, Stellenbosch is a charming town located in the heart of South Africa’s wine country.

  • Hermanus: A popular seaside resort town located just a short drive from False Bay, Hermanus offers stunning beaches, hiking trails, and whale watching opportunities.

Conclusion

False Bay is a gem of a destination, offering visitors the chance to explore a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and a wide range of outdoor activities. With its friendly locals, warm weather, and wide variety of attractions, it is the perfect place to start any South African travel itinerary.

Strand Beach is popular with locals. Strand Beach is popular with locals. Pringle Bay Pringle Bay


    Boulders Beach
    Fish Hoek
    Gordon's Bay
    Khayelitsha
    Muizenberg
    Simon's Town
    Strand