Your Neighbourhood Guide to Blaauwberg

If you’re seeking postcard-perfect views of Table Mountain, world-class watersports, and a relaxed coastal vibe, Blaauwberg should be at the top of your Cape Town bucket list.

Just 20 minutes from the Cape Town CBD, Blaauwberg is where the wind shows off, making it the city’s ultimate playground for kitesurfing and windsurfing. It’s not just for thrill-seekers, though. With its iconic views, wide-open beaches, and laid-back vibe, this neighbourhood offers something for everyone.

Here’s what you can dive into on your next visit:

Where to Go

Kitesurfing or surfing

For thrill-seekers and water-sports enthusiasts, Blouberg is an adventurer’s dream destination. It offers ideal conditions for surfing and kitesurfing, making it one of South Africa’s top spots for wave-riding adventures. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first lessons or an experienced rider chasing adrenaline, the waves and wind here cater to every level.

Locations: Kite Beach, Dolphin Beach, Blouberg Beach, and Big Bay.

Bloubergstrand Beach

Bloubergstrand Beach offers front-row views of Table Bay, Table Mountain and Robben Island.  Out on the water, things get lively. Thanks to the steady wind and open-ocean swell, kitesurfers and windsurfers spend more time in the air than on the water, pulling off moves that are hard to ignore (even if you’re just there for the snacks).

Bring a picnic, claim your patch of sand, and let the show come to you. Or head to the promenade, where you’ll find a steady stream of joggers, dog walkers and sunset chasers, all making the most of the view.

Location: Marine Drive, Cape Town

Blaauwberg Nature Reserve

Home to 559 plant species, 45 mammal species, and 30 types of reptiles, this nature reserve is a haven for biodiversity. From the top of Blaauwberg Hill, visitors are treated to sweeping views down fynbos-covered slopes, across the city skyline, and out towards seven kilometres of rugged, sandy coastline meeting the endless ocean. Blaauwberg Hill is one of the rare places in the world where you can see two proclaimed World Heritage Sites at once: Table Mountain and Robben Island. Visitors can also enjoy scenic runs, walks, or picnics.

Location: Eerste Steen Resort, Otto du Plessis Drive
Website: www.capetown.gov.za/Blaauwberg

Go Shopping

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds while enjoying a bit of retail therapy, you’re in luck! The area is packed with shopping spots, including Table Bay Mall, Bayside Mall, Eden on the Bay, Tableview Shopping Centre, and Seaside Village Shopping Centre. These malls are full of restaurants and cafés and even have fun kiddies’ zones.

Meet the penguins at SANCCOB

Get up close to the adorable (and surprisingly feisty) African penguins at the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds — the heroes behind the rescue, rehabilitation, and protection of seabirds along our coast.

Pop in for a visit, roll up your sleeves to volunteer, or take things to the next level by adopting a penguin (yes, you get to name it!). It’s a feel-good way to support an incredible cause and make a flippered friend for life.

Location: 22 Pentz Dr, Table View
Website: sanccob.co.za/

Where to Eat and Drink

Blowfish Restaurant, Dolphin Beach Hotel

Blowfish at the Dolphin Beach Hotel is a go-to spot for great seafood, sushi, and some of the best views in Cape Town. Kick back at the Sushi Bar and enjoy a glass of bubbly as the sun sets over the Atlantic, with Table Mountain in the background. The menu leans into fresh flavours from the sea, with meat and pasta options too, making it perfect for an easygoing meal and a seriously good sunset.

Location: 1 Marine Dr, Bloubergstrand
Website: blowfishrestaurant.co.za/

Ons Huisie Restaurant

Originally built as a small beach cottage in the early 1900s, this local gem evolved into a buzzing restaurant celebrating the heritage and culture of the Cape. The restaurant pays homage to the West Coast, with seafood taking centre stage. On the menu, you’ll find oysters, potjie, fish and chips, mussels, meat dishes, and vegetarian options. True to its roots, the restaurant even serves traditional favourites such as pickled fish and koeksisters.

Location: Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand
Website: onshuisie.co.za/

On The Rocks

Get a front-row seat to iconic 180° ocean views of Table Mountain and Robben Island while indulging in a fine-dining feast. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this beloved restaurant celebrates a sea-and-land theme, complemented by some of the finest wines. Book your table in advance to secure the best seat.

Location: 45 Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand
Website: ontherocks.co.za/

Trecastelli Tradizione Italiana

Enjoy a little slice of Italy at Trecastelli, a charming family-run spot serving Italian classics and pastries inspired by traditional recipes straight from Roma. Their pizzas and pasta are always worth ordering, with plenty of vegetarian options. And whatever you do, don’t skip dessert, as their cannoli and tiramisu are absolute favourites.

Location: 2 Porterfield Rd, Table View
Website: trecastelli.co.za/

Mamacita’s Blouberg

Inspired by the vibrant spirit of Los Angeles and the delicious flavours of Mexico, Mamacita’s extensive Margarita menu is paired with an equally impressive food menu. With live music on weekends, it’s the ideal spot to unwind with friends.

Location:  11 Marine Cir, Table View
Website: mamacitas.co.za/

Illy cafe

At first, it feels like you’re just popping in for a regular coffee, but walk down the stairs, and you’ll discover one of the city’s best-kept views. With its laid-back, chic vibe, you can sip your favourite coffee or smoothie, grab a snack or breakfast, and soak up the scenery. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a walk or a hike.

Location: 47 Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand

Where to Stay

Blaauwberg Beach Hotel

Located near Blouberg Beach, this 4-star retreat offers a relaxed coastal vibe. With 140 stylish rooms and suites, every stay comes with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, and for the lucky ones, sweeping views of Table Mountain or Robben Island. Foodies can dine at Waves Restaurant, where dishes are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoons unwinding in any of the three pools or getting a tan on the beach.

Location: 106 Beach Blvd, Bloubergstrand
Website: www.blaauwbergbeachhotel.co.za/

Dolphin Beach Hotel

Located right on the beach at Bloubergstrand, Dolphin Beach Hotel offers one of the best beachfront stays in Cape Town, with uninterrupted views of Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Rietvlei Lagoon. Choose from spacious self-catering studio and one-bedroom apartments, as well as two-bedroom beach cabanas, each with open-plan living areas, kitchenettes, and private balconies or patios. During your stay, enjoy a pampering session at Avara Day Spa or a dining experience at Blowfish Restaurant.

Location: Dolphin Beach, 1 Marine Dr, Bloubergstrand
Website: www.visitdolphinbeach.com/

Aquarius Luxury Suites

This upmarket apartment-style hotel blends the comfort of home with the indulgence of luxury. Each suite is fully equipped with a modern kitchen, spacious living areas, bathrooms, and large balconies, perfect for watching sunsets or enjoying morning coffee with a sea breeze. Choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom units with dramatic city views. While you enjoy the privacy of a self-catering suite, you’ll also benefit from daily housekeeping, a 24-hour concierge, and secure undercover parking.

Location: 10 Blaauwberg Rd, Table View
Website: www.aquariussuites.co.za/

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