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A stretch of white sand as far as the eye can see
Horse riding on Noordhoek Beach
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Horse riding along Noordhoek beach.
© Imhoff Equestrian Centre
Did you know?
The beach at Noordhoek, also known as Long Beach, is 8 kilometres long.
A leisurely ride on horseback along a desolate beach is the stuff of dreams, but on Cape Town's Noordhoek Beach, at the foot of the Chapman's Peak Pass, you'll be able to turn your dreams into reality.
Noordhoek is a long stretch of sand linking the town of Noordhoek with the village of Kommetjie. Soft sand, gentle dunes and the wild approach of the Atlantic Ocean against the backdrop of Chapman's Peak Pass and the mountains towards Simonstown round off the scene.
A number of local stables offer horse riding at Noordhoek at 09h00, 13h00 and in the afternoon or at sunset, depending on the time of year. The excursion is a two-hour beach horse ride, which also caters for children from the age of 12 as well as inexperienced riders. Riding schools in the area also offer lessons for those wanting more than just a one-off horse riding experience.
The beach is not popular among bathers, but is often dotted with surfers, bodyboarders and kitesurfers when the waves are good. It's also a favourite beach for long walks with dogs.
The ride offers unparralleled scenery and a visit to the wreck of the Kakapo wreck (on the beach) and wonderful bird-watching for twitchers thanks to the indigenous fynbos that fringes the beach.
Knowledgable guides and well-behaved horses are the hallmark of the experience which caters for groups of up to six riders at a time.
Apart from Noordhoek horse rides, there are a rich variety of activities so you can really make a day of it, with an early morning ride followed by some surfing, cycling or trout fishing. There is also fine bird-watching and some beautiful nature walks.
Restaurants and curio shops in the area offer fine cuisine and shopping to round off a day spent at Noordhoek.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Cape Town Tourism
Phone: +27 (0)21 487 6800
Email: info@capetown.travel
How to get here
Drive along the ultra-scenic Chapman's Peak Pass to get from Cape Town to Noordhoek.
Get around
Noordhoek is a small village with limited public transport options, so having your own vehicle is the most convenient option.
What will it cost
The cost of a riding expedition varies according to which operator you use, but budget for around R500 per person.
Length of stay
A beach ride takes about 2 hours.
Where to stay
Noordhoek has a great selection of guest houses and B&Bs nearby
What to eat
There's an excellent seafood restaurant located on the beach road.