|
It's been a while since Muizenberg laid claim to being South Africa's most fashionable beachfront but this long stretch of False Bay beachfront is experiencing something of a revival. To experience this remarkable coastal area spend a few nights at one of the Cape Peninsula Hotels.
The decrepit buildings lining the beachfront have been renovated and the once deserted car park is now teeming at weekends.
The easiest way to get there from the city is to drive the 20km or so to the end of the M3 – Cape Town's southern suburbs arterial – and follow the coastal road.
For those who relish a challenge there is also a train service from the city but you'll probably stop off at every station on the way. Don't take the trains during rush hour as they will be packed and keep your wits about you and your valuables at home.
Muizenberg's position on the Indian Ocean means the water is a degree or two friendlier than its frigid Atlantic cousin (temperatures range between 14º C and 20º C) but stay away when the infamous south-easterly wind is blowing: the beach becomes a howling cloud of stinging sand.
If the conditions are right, which thankfully is more often than not, it's a great beach for walks, beach combing, swimming and surfing. The shallow water is perfect for kids and there is a nice family vibe on the beach.
There are freshwater showers, public toilets and lifeguards at Muizenberg's busy south-western corner but these amenities quickly fall away as you walk east.
A host of cafés and coffee shops vie for custom in the immediate beach front area and Muizenberg's lack of stellar fashion status means prices are sensible.
It's worth pointing out that Muizenberg is only the start of a chain of beaches that hug the False Bay coast. Carry on south and you'll meander through the picturesque streets of St James, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek and Simons Town.
All of these villages have decent beaches and the water lacks the biting cold edge of the Atlantic. The beaches are popular with locals – St James is especially child-friendly – but you should give them a miss if the South Easter is huffing and puffing.
A final word of advice: Muizenberg has a dedicated team of shark spotters on the look out for roaming great white sharks.
These toothy torpedoes pose no danger to paddlers and swimmers (as long as you stay in the shallows) but surfers are advised to keep an eye out for the coded warning flags.
|
