Muizenberg is one of Cape Town’s most iconic coastal suburbs. It’s a place where surfboards line the beach, brightly painted huts add a splash of color to the sand, and the vibe is as relaxed as the waves rolling in. Just a short drive from O’Two Hotel, Muizenberg offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and seaside leisure that makes it a perfect place to spend a day.
Morning: Surf’s up
Start your day with the activity Muizenberg is most famous for: surfing. The beach is known as the birthplace of surfing in South Africa, thanks to its gentle waves and long sandy shoreline. It’s ideal for beginners, but seasoned surfers also love the consistent breaks.
Book a lesson with one of the many surf schools lining the beachfront. They provide boards, wetsuits, and expert guidance, so all you need to bring is enthusiasm. Even if you’re not surfing, the atmosphere is everything you want from a beach. Watch the surfers, stroll along the sand, or snap photos of the iconic rainbow-colored beach huts that have become a symbol of Muizenberg.
After your surf session, grab a coffee and a light breakfast at one of the beachfront cafés. Knead Bakery is a local favorite, serving fresh pastries and strong cappuccinos with unbeatable ocean views.
Late Morning: Explore a bit of culture
Once you’ve dried off, take a short walk into Muizenberg’s town center to discover its rich history.
- Casa Labia: This elegant Italian-style villa, built in 1929, is now a cultural center hosting art exhibitions, concerts, and events. Its interiors are opulent, and the café offers a refined spot for a mid-morning tea.
- Het Posthuys: One of the oldest buildings in South Africa, dating back to the 1670s, Het Posthuys is a small museum that gives a glimpse into Muizenberg’s colonial past.
These cultural stops add depth to your day, showing that Muizenberghas stories to tell.
Afternoon: Seaside dining and leisure
By midday, you’ll be ready for a hearty meal. Muizenberg offers a mix of casual eateries and stylish restaurants, and opportunities to relax by the waves.
- Tiger’s Milk: Known for its lively atmosphere, craft beers, and gourmet burgers, Tiger’s Milk is a great spot to refuel after a morning of surfing. Their BBQ pulled pork pizza is a crowd-pleaser.
- Live Bait: For something more refined, Live Bait sits right on the water’s edge. Fresh seafood is the star here. Grab some grilled line fish, calamari, or mussels, all served with panoramic views of False Bay.
Many of the surf shops double as galleries, showcasing boards painted with bold designs and murals that reflect Muizenberg’s artistic spirit.And if you’re simply in the mood to unwind, spread out a towel on the sand and enjoy the afternoon sunshine. Muizenberg’s beach is wide and welcoming.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner
As the day winds down, Muizenberg offers some spectacular sunset views over False Bay. The sky often turns shades of pink and orange, casting a magical glow over the ocean.
There are plenty of places to enjoy the sunset while waiting for your food, but Blauer Vogel Garagenmarkt (Fridays only) is a must-visit evening market. Local artisans sell everything from handmade jewelry to gourmet street food.
Authentic and unpretentious
Muizenberg may not have the curated polish of Sea Point or the glamorous reputation of Clifton, but that’s exactly what makes it special. This is a neighborhood that wears its heart on its sleeve. It’s vibrant, a little rough around the edges, and full of genuine character. The surfboards stacked along the beach, the colorful huts weathered by salt and sun, the mix of locals and travelers sharing the same waves all adds up to an atmosphere that you know would be the same with or without all the tourists.For guests at O'Two Hotel, a day in Muizenberg is a reminder that Cape Town’s charm lies not only in its luxury and glamour, but also in its authenticity. If you’re looking for a neighborhood that captures the soul of the city, Muizenberg is where you’ll find it.
