OCEAN OUTINGS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILYTebogo ThlopaneWelcome to the Western Cape! Home to the iconic Table Mountain, rare flora and fauna, and unmatched coastal regions, the Western Cape is a true year-round playground. However, this naturally stunning province kicks it up a notch in the summertime.
Boasting a selection of spectacular beaches, this beloved province is undoubtedly the epitome of sun, sand and seaside fun. Whether you’re looking for beaches perfect for little ones or the best spots for epic surfing, our guide to ocean outings for the whole family has you covered.
Let’s dive in.

SurfingWith a well-deserved reputation as a mecca for surfers, this iconic province is a beacon for those who live to ride the waves. If you’re interested in learning how to surf, Muizenberg beach is well-known for its vast selection of surfing schools and stunning shoreline, ideal for beginners. For those more experienced, Bloubergstrand is the place to be. As the beach of choice for various surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing competitions, the wind conditions and high swells are a year-round treat for surfing daredevils.

Other top surf spots include Victoria Bay just outside George, Stilbaai Beach (where you may be joined by a school of dolphins!), Long Beach in the hidden gem of Kommetjie, and Dungeons Beach in Hout Bay.
Scuba DivingAlternatively, if you’re interested in an adrenaline-pumping experience, then shark cage or scuba diving is your answer. If you’ve got nerves of steel and the desire to get up close and personal with creatures of the sea, the Western Cape has many companies that offer safe and secure diving opportunities. Some of the most popular areas include Mossel Bay, Gansbaai, Hermanus, and Simon’s Town.

While getting friendly with a school of Great Whites is a once in a lifetime experience, diving feet first into the action certainly isn’t for everyone. The Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront is an excellent opportunity to explore the delights of the deep blue while staying dry. Whether viewing rare fish species, visiting the penguin enclosure or enjoying a front seat to the shark display - the aquarium is a must-see attraction. 
With so much to see and do all over the Western Cape, sometimes the best ocean outing is simply kicking back on powder-soft sand and enjoying family time under the sun. Thanks to a wide selection of beaches, finding one ideal for children is a breeze. From building sandcastles to finding rock pools, and jumping in gentle waves - good times are guaranteed. Some of the best family-friendly beaches include Bikini Beach in Gordon’s Bay, Camps Bay Beach, Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, Hout Bay Beach and Noordhoek Beach.
Whether you’re visiting the Western Cape for the first time or a regular on its incomparable shores, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stretch your water wings. From the shores of Muizenberg to Mossel Bay and the stunning Helderberg region, you won’t know where to start.
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