Cape Point

Kaappunt

The dramatic headland at the tip of the Cape Peninsula where two oceans meet, offering stunning cliff views and excellent hiking trails. A must-see for dramatic coastal scenery and the chance to spot wildlife including baboons and seabirds.

Things to do

• Hike to Cape Point Lighthouse — A moderate 2.3 km trail leads to the iconic red-and-white lighthouse perched on the rocky headland, offering panoramic views of where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.
• Walk the Two Oceans Trail — A scenic 9.8 km circular hiking route that descends to Diaz Beach and showcases the dramatic cliffs, endemic fynbos vegetation, and sweeping coastal vistas.
• Spot Cape Baboons and Wildlife — Watch for the endemic Cape baboons that roam the peninsula, along with eland, dassies, and a rich variety of seabirds including African fish eagles and African penguins.
• Visit the Two Oceans Restaurant — Dine at this clifftop restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the dramatic meeting point of the oceans and Table Mountain in the distance.
• Explore Olifantsbos Valley — A gentler hiking alternative with wildflower meadows and mountain fynbos, offering excellent birdwatching and views across False Bay.
• Ride the Flying Dutchman Funicular — Take the short aerial cable car from the car park down 200 metres to the visitor centre and viewpoints near the lighthouse.

Food to try

• Fresh Cape Crayfish — Locally caught rock lobster served grilled or steamed at the Two Oceans Restaurant, showcasing the peninsula's Atlantic waters.
• Snoek Fish — A traditional Cape delicacy, this oily fish is typically grilled whole or baked with lemon and herbs, especially popular during the summer season.
• Cape Dried Sausage (Droëwors) — Spiced cured meat traditionally made in the Cape region, available at local shops near the visitor centre for picnic provisions.
• Fynbos Honey and Rooibos Tea — Local products sourced from the endemic fynbos vegetation surrounding Cape Point, sold at the visitor centre café.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Wildlife Distance — Keep at least 5 metres away from baboons and do not feed them, as they are wild animals with sharp teeth that can become aggressive if habituated to humans.
• Weather Changes Rapidly — The Cape is notorious for sudden weather shifts; bring layers and wind-proof clothing even on sunny days, as conditions can change within minutes.
• Park Early and Book Ahead — Table Mountain National Park fills quickly, especially on weekends and holidays; arrive early morning and book restaurant seating in advance during peak season.
• Local Name and Significance — Known to locals as Kaappunt, this site holds deep cultural meaning in South African history and is considered one of the country's most iconic natural landmarks.

Nearby

• Boulders Beach — 18 km
• Constantia Valley — 35 km
• Cape Town — 48 km
• Stellenbosch — 58 km