What’s Going On in Hout Bay
June 12, 2025
Your Guide to Hout Bay: The Seaside Jewel of Cape Town
Nature, Culture, and Harbour Life
Tucked between the dramatic Cape Mountains and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, Hout Bay is a seaside town that feels like a well-kept secret—yet it’s just a short 25-minute drive from Cape Town’s city centre. With its long sandy beaches, bustling harbour, and vibrant local markets, this charming fishing village offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and genuine local culture.
For travellers looking to escape the city bustle without venturing too far, Hout Bay is a hidden gem waiting to be explored—a must-visit destination for those who want to see Cape Town from a fresh, local perspective.
Getting Around
Getting around Hout Bay is easy, whether you’re exploring the town itself or heading out to nearby attractions. The area is very walking-friendly, especially around the harbour, beach, and local markets, making it perfect for leisurely strolls.
For longer trips, Uber and ride-sharing services are readily available, giving you flexibility to explore surrounding areas like Noordhoek, Chapman's Peak, or Cape Point at your own pace.
If you prefer to rent a car, it’s a convenient way to access hiking trails, scenic drives, and hidden beaches. Just be aware that parking can get busy in popular spots, especially during weekends and peak season.
Where to Eat
Breakfast & Brunch
- Deli Delish –
Wholesome all-day breakfast with family-friendly vibes. Try the Twisted Eggs Benedict or freshly baked pastries.
- La Cuccina –
A deli-style café with à la carte breakfasts and sweet treats. Perfect for a quick takeaway or cozy sit-down.
Lunch
- Chapman’s Peak Hotel –
Seafood with sweeping bay views; the fried calamari is a local favorite.
- Fish on the Rocks –
Casual, hands-on fish restaurant at the harbour’s edge; don’t miss the snoek and calamari.
Dinner / Special Occasion
- Cheyne Morrisby –
Modern Asian cuisine with a sharing-focused yum cha menu. Must-try: tuna tataki taco.
- Massimo’s – Family-friendly Italian with gluten-free and vegan options, ideal for a relaxed evening.
Coffee Shops & Cafés
- La Cuccina –
Great for people-watching and takeaway coffee; try their freshly baked carrot cake.
- Clay Café –
Creative café meets pottery studio; sip coffee while painting your own masterpiece.
- Bay Harbour Market cafés –
Seasonal coffee stalls and pastries; enjoy the lively market atmosphere.
What to Do & Explore
Outdoor Activities
- Surfing at Hout Bay Beach or Dungeons for more experienced surfers.
- Hikes like Hout Bay Corner or trails along the surrounding mountains.
- Kayak trips towards Chapman’s Peak or Seal Island.
Attractions
- World of Birds –
Africa’s largest bird park with over 3,000 birds.
- Lichtenstein Castle –
Unique Gothic-style castle, available for tours or events.
Family-Friendly Options
- Harbour walks, playgrounds, and Clay Café pottery painting.
- Bay Harbour Market – Fun for all ages with live music and food stalls.
Unique Local Experiences
- Township tour of Imizamo Yethu for cultural insight.
- Yoga on the beach or sunset picnics at Hout Bay Beach.
Nightlife & Sundowners
- The Lookout Deck –
Casual harbour-side restaurant perfect for sunset drinks.
- Pakalolo –
Live music and a buzzy bar atmosphere.
- Dunes Beach Restaurant & Bar –
Relaxed seaside spot for beers with the family or friends.
Hidden Gems (Insider Tips)
- Secret viewpoints along Suikerbossie Pass for panoramic bay views.
- Small local shops tucked away in Oakhurst Farm Park.
- Weekday morning strolls along the quieter sections of the harbour.
Day Trips & Nearby Adventures
- Short drives along Chapman’s Peak Drive or Constantia Wine Route.
- Visit nearby Noordhoek for beaches or Cape Point for scenic hikes.
- Explore neighbouring towns like Simon’s Town or Kommetjie.
Practical Info
- Grocery stores and pharmacies in the centre of town; ATMs widely available.
- Locals recommend keeping your belongings secure and avoiding walking alone at night.
- Wi-Fi is available at most cafés, markets, and restaurants if you need to work remotely.
Ready for Your Stay?
Whether you’re here to surf the waves, explore scenic trails, discover hidden gems, or savor the local cuisine, Hout Bay has something for everyone. From family adventures at the beach to tranquil moments watching the sunset over the harbor, every day brings a new experience.
And when it’s time to unwind, your home away from home with MUi STAYS is just around the corner. Enjoy comfortable, stylish accommodations, attentive service, and the perfect base to make the most of your Hout Bay getaway. Your adventure starts here—relax, explore, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
A Warm Welcome to Green Point Green Point sits between the bustling V&A Waterfront and the iconic Table Mountain, making it one of Cape Town’s most vibrant neighborhoods. From landscaped parks and leafy streets to trendy restaurants and boutique shops, it’s the perfect mix of city energy and coastal charm. Often considered a hidden gem, Green Point gives visitors a taste of local life while keeping you close to the city’s main attractions. Locals love it for its walkable streets, stunning sunset views, and relaxed yet lively vibe—giving travelers insider access to the best of Cape Town. Getting Around Green Point Green Point is compact and walking-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Bike paths and pedestrian lanes make it simple to stroll between cafés, parks, and shops. For longer trips, Uber and other ride-sharing services are widely available, and car rentals are a convenient option if you plan to explore Cape Town’s outskirts. Street parking is available, though it can fill up quickly during peak hours, so be sure to check for pay-and-display zones or secure parking facilities. Staying with MUi STAYS puts you just minutes from all the neighborhood highlights. Where to Eat Breakfast & Brunch The Power & The Glory – Trendy café known for hearty breakfasts and fresh pastries. Must-try: avo toast with poached eggs. Jason Bakery – Artisanal breads and inventive brunch dishes in a cozy setting. Must-try: croissant sandwich with smoked salmon. Lunch & Casual Bites Tashas – A lively, modern eatery perfect for light lunches and salads. Must-try: quinoa bowl with seasonal toppings. V&A Food Market – Variety of street food and local delicacies; ideal for trying a little bit of everything. Dinner & Special Occasions Belthazar Steak & Seafood – Classic, upscale steakhouse with panoramic harbor views. Must-try: fresh Cape seafood platter. Sevruga – Elegant seafood and sushi restaurant, perfect for a romantic evening or celebration. Best Coffee Shops & Cafés Bootlegger Coffee Company – Popular spot for locals, perfect for work or people-watching. Try the flat white with a slice of banana bread. Deluxe Coffeeworks – Small, cozy café with artisanal pastries and specialty coffee blends. What to Do & Explore Green Point Urban Park – A landscaped park with walking paths, playgrounds, and a biodiversity garden. Perfect for families and outdoor workouts. Cape Town Stadium – Attend sports matches, concerts, or simply admire the architecture. V&A Waterfront – Shop, dine, or take a boat tour. A short stroll away and packed with experiences for all ages. Green Point Lighthouse & Promenade – Scenic coastal walk with breathtaking sunset views. Family-Friendly Options Playgrounds and green spaces within the Urban Park. Family-friendly eateries and ice cream shops. Unique Local Experiences Sunset yoga sessions at the park or along the promenade. Weekend markets and live music at nearby venues. Nightlife & Sundowners Asoka – Cocktail bar with a chic interior and vibrant vibe. The Village Idiot – Casual pub with local craft beers and friendly atmosphere. Sundowners at the Promenade – Grab a drink and watch the sunset over the Atlantic, a favorite with locals. Hidden Gems (Insider Tips) Explore the side streets for quirky art galleries and boutiques. Small cafés tucked away behind Green Point Main Road offer a quiet respite from the buzz. Catch a free sunset concert at the Urban Park during summer weekends. Day Trips & Nearby Adventures Drive to Sea Point or Camps Bay for coastal hikes and scenic beach walks. Short trip to Signal Hill for panoramic views of the city and harbor. Explore the Cape Town CBD for museums, historic streets, and cultural experiences. Practical Info Grocery Stores & Essentials – Pick n Pay and Woolworths within walking distance. Safety Tips – Stay aware of your surroundings at night; use well-lit routes and secure parking. Wi-Fi & Remote Work Spots – Many cafés and coworking spaces offer reliable Wi-Fi. Ready for Your Stay? Whether you’re here to stroll the promenade, shop at the Waterfront, enjoy a vibrant night out, or simply relax in lush green spaces, Green Point has it all. When you’re ready to unwind, your MUi STAYS home is just around the corner—your perfect base for a memorable Cape Town adventure.
A Little Seaside Gem The quaint village of St James, just 26 km south of Cape Town, sits tucked between the mountains and the sea on the False Bay coastline. Famous for its brightly painted Victorian-style bathing boxes, tidal pool, and dramatic mountain backdrop, this is one of the Cape Peninsula’s most picturesque and historic spots. Once a fashionable seaside resort during the Victorian era, today St James still retains its charm, with heritage homes, sweeping ocean views, and a vibrant community spirit. Things to Do in St James St James Tidal Pool – A large, protected pool loved by families for safe swimming and tidal exploring. Danger Beach – A more adventurous surf spot with deep local roots. Beach Huts – Snap the iconic colourful bathing boxes for one of Cape Town’s most Instagram-worthy shots. Rock Pools & Shell Collecting – Perfect for kids and the young at heart. Walk to Kalk Bay – Stroll along cobbled streets to antique shops, galleries, and boutique cafés. Boyes Drive Lookout – Drive above St James for sweeping views of False Bay, with whale and shark sightings in season. Cultural Stops – Explore Rhodes’ Cottage or discover the fascinating stories behind St James Church, built in 1858 for Filipino fishermen. Where to Eat & Drink Pizza Shed, St James 56 Main Road, St James Known for its incredible Neapolitan “Canotto” style pizza, with airy crusts and dough that ferments for 72 hours before baking in a wood-fired oven. Sit down for the full experience and enjoy some of the best pizza in Cape Town. Folk Café, St James Old Post Office, 54 Main Road, St James A community hub with seasonal, ethical, and freshly made food. From plant-based meals to Cape wines, craft beer, and seriously good coffee, Folk Café offers both a restaurant and deli experience. Families love the kids’ play area and cozy fireplace, while digital nomads appreciate the reliable Wi-Fi (even during load shedding). Nearby in Kalk Bay A short walk away, Kalk Bay offers an eclectic food scene—from fresh seafood at Harbour House to artisanal ice cream, tapas bars, and quirky bakeries. Explore the Area St James may be small—just 200m wide by 2 km long—but it’s surrounded by incredible experiences: Kalk Bay Harbour – Watch the fishing boats come in or browse the markets. Boulders Beach (Simon’s Town) – Meet the African penguins in their natural habitat. Cape Point Nature Reserve – A must-do day trip further along the peninsula. When to Visit St James is an all-year-round destination. The east-facing beach is sheltered from the Cape’s strong westerly winds, making it a great swimming spot even when other beaches are blustery. Summer is the most popular season, but winter brings whale watching opportunities from Boyes Drive. Ready to Explore St James? Whether you’re dipping into the tidal pool, snapping photos of the colourful beach huts, or enjoying world-class pizza by the sea, St James offers a unique slice of Cape Peninsula life. And when you’re ready to rest, our MUi STAYS properties in Muizenberg and the surrounding areas are just minutes away—making it easy to explore, unwind, and experience the best of Cape Town’s coastline.
