A Spectacular Cape Town To Cape Point Road Trip (+ Chapmans Peak Drive)

With its diverse landscapes stretching from the panoramic hilltops to the glittering bays, Cape Town and the surrounding towns stand out as some of the best places in Africa for road trips. Stopping by splendid surf spots, coming face-to-face with seals and penguins, hiking at the edge of the continent, and embracing incredible sunsets are just a few of the many magical things that await travellers. Among the many scenic routes, the most mesmerising drive is the coastal path from Cape Town to Cape Point, including Chapmans Peak Drive, which promises an unforgettable journey with stunning scenes.

Break Down Of The Cape Town To Cape Point Drive 

Muizenberg Beach 

Kalk Bay

Boulders Beach and Foxy Beach

Cape Point Nature Reserve and Cape of Good Hope 

Chapmans Peak Drive 

Cape Town To Cape Point Driving Distances

Cape Town to Muizenberg Beach: 35 minutes

Muizenberg Beach to Kalk Bay: 10 minutes

Kalk Bay to Boulders Beach: 20 minutes

Boulders Beach to Cape Point Nature Reserve: 30 minutes

Cape Point Nature Reserve to Cape of Good Hope: 10 minutes

Cape of Good Hope to Chapmans Peak Drive: 1 hour

Everything You Need To Know About Your Stops On The Cape Town To Cape Point Drive

Muizenberg Beach: Surf, Sand, and Serenity

Your adventure begins at Muizenberg Beach, renowned for its vibrant beach huts and rolling waves creating perfect surfing opportunities along the expansive shoreline. It’s also popular for swimming as the waters of False Bay are much warmer than the beaches on the Atlantic side. 

Is there parking at Muizenberg Beach? Yes – there is a big, free parking lot at Beach Road, just make sure to tip the security person who will help you find a spot. 

Kalk Bay: Quaint Charm and Coastal Delights

Continuing along the coast, Kalk Bay’s allure emerges as a bohemian gem with its quaint streets adorned with colourful boutiques and artisanal shops. Between the majestic mountains and the azure sea, this little seaside town paints a postcard setting that embodies tranquillity and charm and is where time seems to slow down. The sight of Southern Right Whales gracefully gliding through the waves in the distance and playful seals basking in the sun on the harbour adds an enchanting touch to this coastal haven.

However, what truly sets Kalk Bay apart is its inviting array of culinary delights, making it the perfect place to stop for lunch during your long Cape Town to Cape Point drive. As the midday sun casts a golden glow over the village, visitors are spoiled for choice with the plethora of casual cafes and relaxed restaurants lining its streets. Among them, Cape To Cuba stands out as a must-visit destination, offering a fusion of flavours that tantalize the taste buds and transport diners to the vibrant streets of Havana.

Top Attractions In Kalk Bay:

• Kalk Harbour
• Tidal Pool
• Kalk Books

Is there parking in Kalk Bay? Yes – there are multiple free parking lots near the restaurants, just make sure to tip the security person that will help you find a spot. 

Boulders Beach and Foxy Beach: Penguin Encounters in Paradise

No road trip across on the Cape Peninsula is complete without a visit to Boulders Beach and Foxy Beach, home to a thriving colony of African penguins. Witnessing these charismatic birds waddle along the pristine shores is truly a heart-warming and bucket-list-worthy experience. 

While Boulders Beach is where you can walk with penguins if you’re lucky, Foxy Beach guarantees interaction and memorable photo opportunities from an elevated boardwalk. 

Top Tip: buy your entrance ticket at Boulder’s Beach because the queues are far shorter than at Foxy Beach during the peak summer season.

Is there parking at Boulder’s Beach? Yes – there is a small, free parking lot at the beach entrance, but if you find it full, you can park on the side streets. Just don’t park in the red zones!

Cape Point Nature Reserve and Cape of Good Hope: Where Land Meets Legend

As you journey towards the southwestern edge of the Cape Peninsula, the Cape Point Nature Reserve reveals itself in all its rugged beauty. Here, nature’s grandeur takes centre stage as towering cliffs dramatically descend into the churning waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The landscape is a symphony of untamed wilderness, captivating the senses and stirring the soul.

Traversing through the Cape Point Nature Reserve is akin to stepping into a realm untouched by time. The winding trails, strong breeze, unique vegetation, and vibrant bursts of colour from indigenous flower blooms are something to adore. 

A highlight of the voyage is hiking (or taking a funicular) to the historic Cape Point Lighthouse, perched grandly atop the rocky promontory as a sentinel, guiding ships safely through treacherous waters and bearing witness to centuries of maritime history. From there, descend to the iconic Cape of Good Hope (by driving or hiking), which stands as a symbol of exploration at the continent’s edge and is beloved for its endless horizons.

In the embrace of the Cape Point Nature Reserve and the Cape of Good Hope, it is easy to find solace in the timeless rhythm of crashing waves and windswept cliffs, and visitors are humbled by the raw power and beauty of nature. 

Is there parking in Cape Point Nature Reserve? Yes 

Is Cape Point Nature Reserve Free? No 

Chapmans Peak Drive: A Scenic Marvel Along the Coast

Now that your drive from Cape Town to Cape Point has concluded, there is no better way to make your way back to Cape Town than via the iconic Chapmans Peak Drive, a winding coastal road renowned for its panoramic views and engineering marvels. 

Carved into the cliffs of the Cape Peninsula, this is one of the world’s most gorgeous drives. Between majestic rocks and the sparkling expanse of the ocean, the sun dances its way to the horizon as travellers take on the hairpin bends, with each turn revealing a new vista more captivating than the last. With numerous lookout points along the way, Chapmans Peak Drive invites travellers to pause, breathe in the salty sea air, and marvel at the splendour of nature’s handiwork – especially when bathing in the warm glow and soft hues at sunset.

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Top Tip: there are tolls at the end of Chapmans Peak Drive, so keep spare change with you.

This entire road trip is an adventure of a lifetime and creates memories that will echo in the depths of your adventurous soul as you bid farewell.