What’s Going On in Kalk Bay
June 12, 2025
Your Guide to Kalk Bay: Where to Eat, Shop & Explore
Why Visit Kalk Bay?
Kalk Bay is one of Cape Town’s coolest seaside villages, recently listed by Forbes as one of the
12 coolest neighborhoods in the world. It’s a quirky mix of fishing boats, tidal pools, antique shops, art galleries, and some of the best dining spots on the False Bay coast. Think: a little bohemian, a little historic, and a lot of charm.
Where to Eat
Casual & Local Favorites
- Kalky’s – A Kalk Bay institution! Grab legendary fish & chips at the harbour, bring your own wine, and enjoy the buzz of fishermen hauling in the day’s catch.
- Bob’s Bagel Café – Tucked away near the park, this spot is perfect for a lazy breakfast or coffee with fresh bagels and smoothies.
- Olympia Café & Bakery – Bustling and rustic, known for its chalkboard menu and massive portions. Don’t miss the famous bakery next door for pastries and fresh bread.
Something Special
- Harbour House – Fine dining perched on the rocks with unbeatable ocean views. Perfect for a romantic dinner (book in advance, ask for table 40 if you can!).
- Cape to Cuba – A vibrant Cuban-inspired restaurant/bar where salsa beats meet ocean breezes. Great for cocktails and lively evenings.
Other Must-Try Stops
- Lekker –
South African comfort food and desserts like milk tart and koeksisters.
- SALT – Laid-back tapas and seafood plates with a rustic vibe.
- The Brass Bell – Iconic live music, seaside decks, and endless ocean views.
Coffee, Sweets & Treats
- Ice Café – Famous homemade ice cream in rotating flavors like cinnamon, black cherry, and peanut butter.
- Courtyard Café – A hidden gem for coffee, brunch, and family-friendly vibes.
- Ohana Beach Café – Vegan-friendly, oceanfront café known for the Ohana Bun (pecan + butterscotch pastry that sells out daily).
What to Do & Explore
- Kalk Bay Harbour & Lighthouse – Watch fishermen unload their catch, spot seals lazing around, and take that perfect red-and-white lighthouse photo.
- Dalebrook Tidal Pool – An Instagrammable sunrise swim spot (lockers + coffee across the road at Chardonnay Deli).
- Boomslang Cave Hike – A family-friendly cave hike with sweeping False Bay views. Best done with a local guide.
- Lever Street Park – Local hangout for families; grab a bagel and coffee from Bob’s while the kids play.
- Shopping – Browse antiques at
Kalk Bay Trading Post, art at
Kalk Bay Modern, and eclectic designs at
Kalk Bay Co-op.
Nightlife & Sundowners
- The Brass Bell – Sundowners with live music by the ocean.
- Cape to Cuba – Cocktails + salsa beats under giant palm fronds.
- Harbour House & Live Bait – Perfect for a glass of wine while whale watching in season.
Why Guests Love Kalk Bay
Kalk Bay has a slower pace than Cape Town city, with salty air, quirky shops, seals in the harbour, and a buzzing yet laid-back vibe. It’s a mix of seaside holiday mood and bohemian charm — perfect for a day trip, but even better if you linger.
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Insider Tip: From your Airbnb in Muizenberg or St James, you’re only a few minutes away by car, Uber, or even train. That makes Kalk Bay an easy must-do for guests looking for authentic False Bay flavor.
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.
