Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Cape Town Beach Guide




White Sandy Beaches in Cape Town:
The beach sand on Cape Town beaches is white and golden and soft on the foot. There are a few rocky beaches but the ones listed in this guide are soft and comfy to lie on and perfect to play on. So whether you’re strolling down the beach, relaxing on your towel or diving for a stray volleyball, the soft beach sand will cushion you.
Sun Tan in Cape Town:
Summer time in Cape Town offers you fantastic beach weather. The temperatures soar and what better way to spend your day than on the beach. There is often a refreshing sea breeze near the waters edge or simply go for a swim to cool down. The Cape sun can be harsh, especially between 12:00 and 14:00 so apply plenty of sunscreen and be sure to reapply throughout the day, particularly if you are swimming. There is nothing worse than a ‘lobster’ sunburn or a vest tan, so you have been warned! Pack your sun cream, umbrella and whatever else you may have that will protect you from the sun.
Beach Picnic in Cape Town:
The best time for a beach picnic is late afternoon. The beach is not as full so you can spread out your blanket, open the picnic basket and take in the scenery. The Atlantic Ocean beaches are most popular as the sunsets you will see are spectacular. Pack some drinks, snacks and a few candles and enjoy the warm glow of the African sun setting over the sea.
Sheltered Beaches in Cape Town:
Cape Town can be known for its windy conditions in summer. Not a problem! You have a coastline that protects the beaches very well from the wind, so if it’s windy on one side of the peninsula you will find a beach on the other side of the coast. All beaches are very accessible by car and you will not travel too far to find that sheltered beach to enjoy the warm summer days.
Fun and Games on the Beach in Cape Town:
When you head off to the beach don’t forget the entertainment. Bat and ball is always good or if you want to make a few friends take a rugby ball and start a game of touch rugby. Frisbee, volleyball, bucket and spade… whatever you can carry. There are various sandcastle building competitions in summer so keep an eye out if you feel you have a creative side to you. Another thing to listen out for are the very popular and well organized beach festivals in the summer holidays.
Tidal Pools in Cape Town:
If swimming in the waves is not your thing Cape Town has some great tidal pools to swim in. One of the most popular pools is at St James, which is in False Bay. There is a picturesque little beach, with a tidal pool and beach huts. The water is a fraction warmer than the open sea so if you are afraid of cold water, this is a great alternative.