Best Sunset Activities in Cape Town
December 2020
The Mother City is well known for its magnificent sunsets and offers so many amazing spots to enjoy the sun setting into the Atlantic Ocean. Whether it is from a mountain top, onboard a luxury boat, sitting on the sandy beaches, or onboard the Red Double Decker bus, the options are endless. We wanted to share a list of magical spots in Cape Town. Pack a picnic basket, a blanket, a sundowner, and enjoy the sunsets.
On a bus
Join the red double-decker open-top City Sightseeing Bus for a magical sunset experience. This journey takes approximately 3 hours and includes a fantastic coastal drive that departs from Stop 1 at the V&A Waterfront. Meandering along the coastline on Beach Road, passing Mouille Point, Sea Point promenade, Bantry Bay, then on to the famous beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay. On this route, you will have the ocean on your right and the Twelve Apostle mountain range on your left.
As the sun starts dipping into the ocean the bus heads up to Signal Hill in time for sunset. Sit on the lawns that offer fantastic views of the sun setting into the Atlantic Ocean. Signal Hill is an iconic spot known for its magnificent sunsets.
Signal Hill Sunsets with City Sightseeing
As the sun dips into the sea and the city lights twinkle in the distance, the views are outstanding and it’s a really magic sunset location. After sunset, the bus takes a route down Kloof Nek road, where the lights sparkle as the city comes to life. Enjoy the magic view of all the city lights and the renowned Chrismas lights’ display as you head back to the busy V&A Waterfront.
Please note that the Sunset Tour Bus tour will be travelling to Blouberg from the 26th of December 2020 until the 2nd of January 2021.
On the mountain
Take the cable car to the summit of Table Mountain (Stop 7). Between 16 December and 15 January, the last cable car up is 20:30, and the last one down is 21:30. Therefore a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset from the top of the mountain. As the sun sets into the Atlantic Ocean and the city lights sparkle in the distance, the views are incredible, and it’s an exceptional sunset location. Many engagements have taken place on the mountain during sunset and this mountain is known as one of the most romantic places to watch the sun setting in the city. Descending the mountain in the dark will give you the most magical views of the city lights.
Table Mountain and the city lights
On the ocean
The Waterfront is home to numerous luxury yachts. Join Waterfront Boat Company onboard one of their many vessels. Either choose a sunset under sail on the Esperance and Serenity One or onboard their motor vessels of Sea Princess and Southern Cross. This approximately 2-hour cruise experience will see you enjoying a glass of sparkling wine, whilst watching the sunset and the city lights coming to life. The routes from the harbour vary dependent on wind and water conditions, and either travel out towards the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay or alternatively around the western coastline. Either way, you will have a magical sunset on board.
Sunset from the ocean
On the beach
Cape Town offers a remarkable coastline and hidden among its beaches are some wonderful saltwater tidal pools which are amazing and offer fantastic views, such as the tidal pools at Camps Bay (Stop 8) which overlooks the ocean and Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles backdrop offers incredible sunset views. Alternatively, pack a picnic and a blanket, and sit on the sand watching the glorious sunset.
If you’re looking for a beach a little further out of the city, we recommend Bloubergstrand. A short 20-minute drive from the city bowl, this beach overs picture-perfect sunsets with the wide-open landscape of the long sandy beach, the ocean in the front, and Table Mountain, Signal Hill, and Lions in full view.
Blouberg beach sunset
Enjoy the golden hour in Cape Town when the sunsets and the skies turn to a soft glow of pinks and purples. Because there is nothing like a sunset to set the mood and enjoy some sundowners with friends and family.
FAQs
What are some romantic sunset spots in Cape Town?
Cape Town offers several romantic spots to enjoy a sunset, with Table Mountain being one of the most iconic. Taking the cable car to the summit provides breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean, creating a magical atmosphere. The mountain is renowned for its romantic ambiance, making it a popular choice for engagements and special moments. Another romantic location is Signal Hill, where you can sit on the lawns and watch the sun dip into the ocean. The panoramic views of the city lights coming to life add to the enchanting experience, making it an ideal spot for couples.
Where can I enjoy a sunset cruise in Cape Town?
For a unique sunset experience, consider a cruise with the Waterfront Boat Company. They offer various vessels, including the Esperance and Serenity One, where you can enjoy a sunset under sail. Alternatively, their motor vessels, such as the Sea Princess and Southern Cross, provide a comfortable setting to watch the sunset. These cruises typically last around two hours and offer a glass of sparkling wine as you take in the stunning views. Depending on the wind and water conditions, the route may take you towards the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay or along the western coastline.
What makes Bloubergstrand a great sunset location?
Bloubergstrand is a fantastic location for watching the sunset due to its expansive sandy beaches and unobstructed views of Table Mountain, Signal Hill, and Lions Head. The wide-open landscape provides a picture-perfect setting as the sun sets over the ocean, creating a beautiful backdrop for photographs. Located just a short drive from Cape Town's city centre, Bloubergstrand offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing evening with family or friends, where you can enjoy a picnic on the beach while watching the sky transform into shades of pink and purple.
Can you recommend a beach for sunset views in Cape Town?
Camps Bay Beach is a popular choice for sunset views in Cape Town. With its white sandy shores and the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range as a backdrop, it offers a stunning setting to watch the sun go down. The beach is easily accessible and provides ample space for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery. For those seeking a quieter spot, the tidal pools at Camps Bay offer fantastic views and a unique experience. Alternatively, Bloubergstrand is another excellent option, known for its expansive views and the iconic sight of Table Mountain in the distance.
What makes Signal Hill a popular sunset spot?
Signal Hill is a favourite among locals and tourists alike for its breathtaking sunset views. The hill offers panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the city, making it a perfect spot to watch the sun set into the horizon. The location's accessibility and ample space make it a convenient choice for sunset enthusiasts. The atmosphere at Signal Hill is relaxed and welcoming, with many people bringing picnics to enjoy while taking in the views. As the sun sets, the city lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical experience that captures the essence of Cape Town's natural beauty.
