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Long before GPS, the sailors of old returning from long sea voyages to the east confused this picturesque bay with the more famous Table Bay a bit further along the coast, thus giving False Bay its name.
False Bay is an immense C-shaped curve in the coastline to the southeast of Table Mountain. At its widest point, it’s a staggering 30km (19mi) across the bay! Unsurprisingly, the bay is littered with numerous long sandy beaches, some of which have managed to escape any form of urban development.
Tucked in the western corner of False Bay lies the quaint fishing village of Kalk Bay. Its harbor is a popular destination not only due to some excellent seafood restaurants but also for the local fishermen who sell their catch of the day straight off the boat. There are even a few resident Cape fur seals who have formed a unique bond with the fishermen, often posing together for photographs. On Kalk Bay’s main road is a fabulous assortment of art galleries, vintage bookshops, antique dealers, and superb restaurants.
A few minutes up the road from Kalk Bay is the epicenter of Cape Town’s surf scene, Muizenberg. It’s a great training ground for anyone learning to surf and draws adventurous souls of all ages. Naturally, a laid-back surf culture exists in the town, and you’ll get a feel for the vibe on Surfer’s Corner, a seafront strip lined with restaurants, pubs, and surf shops.
From Muizenberg, the beach runs uninterrupted for 40km (25mi) along the inner curve of Table Bay, all the way to the Helderberg region, which includes the towns of Somerset West, Strand, and Gordon’s Bay. Somerset West, situated inland, is often seen as an off-the-beaten-track destination with several hidden-gem wine farms. While Strand is the area’s commercial hub, Gordon’s Bay offers some small, scenic, family-friendly beaches.
Highlights
- Muizenberg is one of South Africa’s top surfing spots since it has a consistent swell, especially in the winter. Conditions cater to all skill levels, and several surf schools offer lessons for young and old.
- Clarens Drive on the R44 road between Gordons Bay and Rooi-Els is a stunning coastal drive. The narrow 21km (13mi) long pass snakes along the coastline between the Atlantic Ocean and the towering Hottentots Holland mountains, offering spectacular views.
- Humpback, Bryde’s, and Southern Right whales can be seen in False Bay during the late winter when they migrate north to warmer climates.
- A visit to the Kalk Bay harbor is a must. It’s a tradition to eat fish and chips and watch the resident seals interact with the fishermen.
- The Cheetah Outreach, a conservation initiative in Somerset West, offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with the fastest land animals on the planet.
- Boulders Beach is famous for its colony of African penguins. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with these charming creatures in their natural habitat. The beach offers boardwalks and viewing platforms, making it a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike.
Practical Advice
- By car, the western side of False Bay is about 50 minutes by car from Cape Town city center, while the far eastern end (Rooi-Els) is about an hour and a half by car.
- Public transport in False Bay is limited. Therefore, renting a vehicle is recommended if you intend to spend much time in the area.
