Muizenberg is the original seaside holiday town in the Cape peninsula. If you doubt this consider that Cecil John Rhodes was one of the very first people to buy a holiday home in the picturesque village. The reasons that holiday-makers keep coming back to Muizenberg are obvious: the white beach that stretches some 40-odd km; the warm water that is infinitely preferable to freezing your tuchus off in Clifton; the surfing; the view across False Bay; the mountain and its sundry walking trails; and, of course, the laid back atmosphere.
All of the seaside towns in False Bay have a relaxed, bohemian spirit, but Muizenberg perhaps more so than most. The number of surf shops is equalled by the coffee shops and restaurants and if you want a more educational experience you can always pop down the Historical Mile and soak up some of the town’s history.
Highlights
The Historical Mile:
Het Posthuys (that’s The Posthouse to those who don’t speak Dutch) is the oldest standing building on the False Bay coast. It was built in the late 17th century shortly after the Dutch discovered the Cape. It is run by the Muizenberg Historical Conservation Society and is open on request.
Rhodes Cottage Museum is located in the holiday house that Cecil John Rhodes bought to get away from it all and where he passed away. The museum is dedicated to his life and achievements and provides a glimpse of life from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. It’s open daily from 10h00 – 16h00.
The Zandvlei Estuary:
Zandvlei Estuary was established in 1988 to protect the indigenous fauna and flora of the wetlands of the area. In addition to its nature conservation role, the estuary is home to the Imperial Yacht Club and the Peninsula Canoe Club.
The Pavilion:
The Pavilion is right on the beach and includes a small amusement park. It makes for a great day out because you can surf in the ocean, take a dip in the pool, zip down the water slides and finish up with a fun game of putt-putt. Food and drink is freely available or you can bring along a picnic.
The Masque Theatre:
The Masque Theatre puts on intimate productions of famous, quirky, local and international plays and shows.
Events
The Annual Dragon Boat Festival Regatta at the Zandvlei Estuary is hosted by the Cape of Good Hope Rotary Club. Teams of ten take to the water and paddle in time to the beat of a drum to see who can make it across the finish line.
The Cape Town International Kite Festival is hosted by Cape Mental Health and is the biggest kite festival in Africa. Come on down to see a surprising array of flying creations – some of which will astound you in their ability to stay airborne – and enjoy the craft market, kids’ rides and selection of food stalls.
The Muizenberg Flea Market takes place every weekend at Sunrise Beach between 8h00 and 16h00.
Getting there
Muizenberg is about 20 minutes from Cape Town’s city centre. It’s easily accessible via Main Road but an easier and speedier option is the M3. It’s also on the southern train line, so you don’t have to worry about your own transport.
Once you’re in Muizenberg everything is in walking distance, so you just have to park once and head off in the direction of your choice.
[Read Less]
muizenberg places
