Bakoven Accommodation

Activities in and Around Bakoven

Bakoven is not just about stunning views and quiet beaches—it’s also an ideal launchpad for unforgettable experiences on the Atlantic Seaboard and beyond. Here’s what you can do during your stay:

1. Relax at Beta Beach

Tucked behind large granite boulders, Beta Beach is one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets. Enjoy safe swimming, sunbathing, and postcard-worthy sunsets just a few steps from your accommodation.

Getting There

Beta Beach is located at the end of Twenty Steps Street in Bakoven. Visitors can access the beach via a short walk down a stairway from Victoria Road. Parking is limited, so it’s advisable to arrive early or consider public transportation options .

Tips for Visiting Beta Beach

• Arrive early: To secure a good spot and enjoy the beach before it gets crowded.

• Bring essentials: Pack sunscreen, snacks, and water, as amenities are limited.

• Explore the surroundings: Take a walk along the coastline or visit nearby attractions in Camps Bay.

2. Explore Oudekraal Nature Reserve

Part of Table Mountain National Park, Oudekraal offers braai (BBQ) spots, tidal pools, and snorkeling in a calm, protected bay—perfect for families or a peaceful picnic. Entry fees applicable. Please note that the beach operates on a cashless system, and Wild Card holders enjoy free access.

What Makes Oudekraal Special

• Scenic Beauty: The beach is framed by dramatic granite boulders and surrounded by lush fynbos vegetation, offering stunning views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean.

• Marine Life: Oudekraal is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Justin’s Caves, located nearby, are home to vibrant kelp forests and diverse marine life, including colorful sponges, soft corals, and sea fans. The area also features the wreck of the Huis te Crayenstein, the oldest known shipwreck in South Africa, dating back to 1698.

• Historical Significance: In the early 18th century, Oudekraal served as a refuge for enslaved Muslims who had escaped from colonial authorities. Among them was Sheikh Noorul Mubeen, a Sufi saint believed to have been exiled to the Cape in 1716 and incarcerated on Robben Island. According to local legend, he escaped from Robben Island and settled in Oudekraal, where he taught Islam to enslaved people in the area.

Activities & Attractions

• Snorkeling & Freediving: The clear, calm waters of Oudekraal make it an excellent spot for snorkeling and freediving. The kelp forests and rocky outcrops provide a rich underwater ecosystem to explore.

• Diving: Divers can explore depths ranging from 5 to 12 meters, with optimal visibility during the summer months. The area is accessible via a short walk down a steep path and some rock scrambling.

• Picnicking & Braai Facilities: Oudekraal offers several picnic areas with built-in braai (barbecue) facilities, making it a popular spot for family gatherings and outdoor meals. Note that a Wild Card or cash is required for entry, as the beach operates a cashless system.

• Events & Functions: The Gazebo at Oudekraal Beach is available for functions and can accommodate up to 350 people. It features built-in picnic tables, power points, and a roofed area with no sides. Alcohol is permitted, and music can be played when the area is booked for an event.

3. Scenic Walks and Photo Opportunities

Stroll along the Bakoven coastal path, a quiet and scenic route offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Lion’s Head, and the Twelve Apostles. It’s a favorite for sunrise jogs and sunset walks.

4. Hike Table Mountain and Lion’s Head

Access some of Cape Town’s most iconic hikes within minutes. Both the Table Mountain and Lion’s Head trailheads are less than 15 minutes away by car.

5. Dine in Camps Bay

Take a short walk or drive to nearby Camps Bay and enjoy world-class restaurants, beachside cocktails, and vibrant nightlife.

6. Day Trips to Hout Bay and Constantia

Explore Hout Bay’s harbour, art markets, and seal-watching tours. Wine lovers can enjoy tastings at Groot Constantia, South Africa’s oldest wine estate, just 25 minutes away.

7. Water Sports and Ocean Adventures

Go sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or join a sunset cruise from the nearby coast. During season, whale watching and dolphin sightings are common.

8. Visit the Cape Peninsula

Drive Chapman’s Peak to explore Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach (penguins), and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve—all within an hour’s reach.

Types of Accommodation in Bakoven

Self-Catering Villas

Spacious, fully furnished self-catering villas with modern interiors, private pools, and balconies overlooking the ocean. Ideal for families or groups looking for privacy and luxury.

Boutique Guesthouses and B&Bs

Charming and stylish, these accommodations provide personalized service, gourmet breakfasts, and easy access to the beach.

Bakoven Beach Apartments

Contemporary apartments just steps from Beta Beach, perfect for couples, solo travelers, or digital nomads seeking a peaceful coastal escape.

Book Accommodation in Bakoven Today

For visitors looking to experience the best of Cape Town with the added benefit of seclusion and luxury, Bakoven accommodation offers the perfect solution. Choose from beachfront villas, boutique lodges, or designer apartments—all just minutes from the city’s most iconic destinations.

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