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Photo credit: Cape Point via Facebook
Famously named ‘the Cape of Storms’ by Portuguese explorer, Bartholomeu Dias in 1488, the ‘Point’ has always enjoyed a deep, fearful respect from sailors.
By day, it used to serve as a navigational landmark, while, by night or in foggy conditions, it became an unfortunate magnet for shipwrecks, as violent storms and treacherous rocks greeted unsuspecting, helpless vessels with a cold embrace.
Today, Cape Point is one of South Africa’s most beautiful tourist destinations and is situated within the protective jurisdiction of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, itself within the vast Table Mountain National Park.
It’s a fun, scenic and family-friendly attraction that offers nature walks and hikes; secluded beaches; two famous lighthouses; curio shops and eateries; and a wealth of rich flora and fauna.
Just keep in mind that Cape Point has paid entry for visitors.
In this post, we share some fun things to do and see at Cape Point:
The Two Lighthouses at Cape Point
Photo credit: Cape Point via Facebook
Cape Point is home to two rather famous lighthouses. The first, built in 1859, stands at 238metres above sea level, on the highest peak, Da Gama Peak. Today, it is used as the centralised monitoring point for all South African lighthouses.
You can visit this famous, old lighthouse via the fun Flying Dutchman funicular — so named after the dreaded ghost ship, The Flying Dutchman, which is believed to haunt the shores of the Cape of Good Hope, forever unable to make port — or by taking a slow, steady walk up the steep hill and well-cut stairs to the top.
The second lighthouse, meanwhile, was built in 1914, when it became clear that the original was positioned too high up and was actually ineffective in misty conditions.
The newer, inaccessible lighthouse is located only 87-metres above sea level and is the most powerful lighthouse on our South African coast. And, while you can’t hike to it, you can still enjoy seeing it from afar when visiting Cape Point.
Tackle Nature Walks and Shipwreck Hikes
Photo credit: Cape Point via Facebook
As it is a nature sanctuary, Cape Point is a spectacular place to enjoy a pretty walk or even a more challenging hike. There are several shorter and/or overnight trails that allow you to see a plethora of fynbos, wildlife and even undisturbed sandy beaches.
For a start, there’s the +/- two kilometre Lighthouse Keeper’s Trail. This begins at the upper funicular station and takes you along a narrow, solid path to a sheer cliff face, overlooking the new lighthouse down below.
Along the way, you pass historical bunkers and get a great view of the old Cape Point lighthouse, which towers above.
Or you can try the Cape of Good Hope Trail, which takes you down past the gorgeous Diaz Beach to the famous Cape of Good Hope sign, which is situated at the southernmost point of the Cape Peninsula. It’s a popular spot for photos but there are also some beautiful cliffs, rough seas and incredible game to see here. Keep an eye out for the buck and ostriches that are often seen nearby.
Other trails include Antoniesgat, Gifkommetjie, Kanonkop, Phyllisia Circuit and the Shipwreck trails.
Discover Secluded Beaches and Braai- and Picnic-Spots
Photo credit: Cape Point via Facebook
Cape Point offers some beautiful, pristine beaches, including Diaz-, Buffels-, Maclear-, Olifantsbos- and the ever-wild Platboom-Beach.
Buffels Beach is hugely popular among day visitors, as you can enjoy a braai (barbeque) or picnic here too. There are also some safe tidal pools nearby and the views over False Bay and towards Cape Point make it a truly beautiful spot.
Another beloved picnic- and braai-spot is Bordjiesrif, which also features a tidal pool.
Just keep in mind there are no lifeguards on duty at Buffels Bay or Bordjiesrif.
Visit Cape Point’s Curio Shops and Eateries
Cape Point also has some food spots to enjoy (although you can just as easily enjoy a more affordable braai or picnic at the designated sites within the reserve).
If you prefer a beautiful meal at a truly panoramic restaurant, then book a table at the Two Oceans Restaurant. While for more casual eats and takeaway options, try The Food Shop.
Cape Point also offers several curio shops in the Cape Point Logo Shop, Cape Point Parks Shop and the maritime-themed LH5. So buy a keepsake, gift or magnet and keep a piece of Cape Point with you forever!
Book Your Cape Peninsula Stay with DK Villas
If you wish to explore the beauty of the Cape Peninsula for a while longer, then why not book a luxurious, self-catering stay with DK Villas?
Our trio of self-catering apartments each offer a unique take, while also seamlessly providing guests with every creature comfort and amenity they could desire.
All our fully furnished apartments offer beautiful decor, a host of handy, quality amenities (from complimentary WiFi to snazzy kitchen- and tech-appliances), as well as secure, on-site parking and 24-hour security for your added comfort and peace of mind.
For a more spacious stay, book the three-bedroom Harbour View apartment or the two-bedroom The Boardwalk apartment. While for a couple, single parent and child or even simply a solo traveller, our one-bedroom Riverview apartment is ideal.
To book with DK Villas, please select the relevant ‘Accommodation’ tab on our website:
www.dkvillas.co.za.
