Sandy Bay

One of Cape Town’s most inacessible beaches it is not entirely surprising that Sandy Bay is also Cape Town’s only recognised naturist beach (although it is still unofficial). The beach is located just around the corner from upmarket Llandudno at the base of the rugged peaks of the Twelve Apostles mountains.

Like neighbouring Llandudno, Sandy Bay is a pretty stretch of white sand strewn with huge slabs of granite. The numerous rocky outcrops here serve to divide the beach up into a number of little coves and provide and added element of privacy.

Unlike its posh neighbour you could not really say Sandy Bay was a family beach with nothing in way of amenities and something of a seedy reputation. Over the years there have been a few unsavoury incidents at the beach and it is best to avoid some areas of the beach (which should be fairly self-evident).

If skinny dipping isn’t your thing (and clothes, or lack thereof, are fully optional) Sandy Bay is still a lovely spot to chill out. There is even a pretty good surf spot here .

As mentioned this isn’t the easiest beach to get to - there are two ways. You can clamber over the rocks from the car park at the southern end of Llandudno or take a 20-minute walk from the car park at the northern end of Hout Bay. However, these car parks are on the small side so plan on getting there early if you need a space.