View over Noordhoek Beach from Chapman's Peak Drive

Though its official name is Noordhoek, most locals just call it Long Beach, a reference to its five-mile length. This longest beach on the Cape Peninsula’s Atlantic Seaboard connects the towns of Noordhoek and Kommetjie, located a short half hour drive south of Cape Town. Yet despite its convenient location, soft white sand, and vast undeveloped landscape, Noordhoek is often practically deserted. During the winter, strong winds drive angry waves across the beach, creating a lagoon behind the dunes; even in gentler seasons, this is definitely not a swimming beach.

Yet, Noordhoek has other charms. Its windswept stretches offer impressive vistas of Chapman’s Peak pass and the mountains towards Simonstown, luring power walkers, kite-fliers, and even romantic couples who appreciate the solitude. At the northern end of the beach, huge boulders rounded by wind and water have formed a small sandy bay nicknamed “The Hook” by surfers and bodyboarders. The waves arrive at regular intervals and are dependably high, something every surfer dreams of. On the southern end, a 100-year old old wrecked steamship begs to be explored. Perhaps the most popular activity of all is horseback riding. Nearby Sleepy Hollow Riding Stables can arrange for rides through the dunes and on the beach for riders of every ability level, even children.

Five miles of complete solitude

Noordhoek Beach is easily accessible from Chapman’s Peak Drive or the scenic Oukaapse Weg, and facilities, including a few guest houses, restaurants, and shops, are available in the towns that anchor the north and south ends of the beach.

Photo credit: Barbara Weibel
Article by Barbara Weibel of Hole In The Donut Travels