Missing video
Sorry, this video could not be found.
Family-friendly - and everyone's invited
Mnandi Beach, Cape Town
Mnandi Beach, one of Cape Town's Blue Flag beaches
© WESSA Blue Flag
Did you know?
South African legislation prevents whale watchers from getting within 300m of a whale - except for licensed boat-based operators.
Mnandi Beach on Cape Town's False Bay seaboard revels in a superb location on the Indian Ocean. A long beach with scenic views of the limestone cliffs of the Wolfgat Nature Reserve in the distance, it is favoured by walkers, fisherman and those who enjoy swimming in warmer waters (unlike the Atlantic Ocean beaches on the other side of the Cape Peninsula).
This Blue Flag beach was reserved for members of the black community in the misguided apartheid years. Today it’s popular with local communities, especially those living in nearby areas such as Khayelitsha and Strandfontein. Overseas visitors often like to combine a guided township tour into Khayelitsha with some downtime at Mnandi to enjoy the sun, sea and beach life.
Mnandi Beach has a recreational area with a large freshwater pool and waterslides, along with playground equipment to occupy the kids. There are areas to eat and braai so bring along a portable beach picnic and make a day of it. Non-human visitors to this Cape Town beach include seals and whales (especially the southern right species that frequent the coastline from June to September) and watching their antics can prove quite a show.
Safety is a big priority at Mnandi Beach. As a Blue Flag destination, lifeguards are on duty here throughout the summer season (1 December – 31 March). Caution, however, must be practised when the winds are high and the currents dangerous. The areas in which it is safe to swim will be marked with yellow and red flags, and paying heed to the warnings from the lifeguards is essential to safety.
The name Mnandi means ‘lovely; just right’ – an apt description for this beach which has enjoyed full Blue Flag status since the year 2004.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Cape Town Tourism
Telephone: +27 (0)21 487 6800
Email: info@capetown.travel
How to get here
From the centre of Cape Town take the N2 heading east, turning onto Baden Powell Drive, which will take you to the M7 and Mnandi Beach.
Around the area
Take time to drive the whole False Bay coast. Head south towards the neighbouring Blue Flag beach at Strandfontein. From there the delights of Muizenberg, St James, Kalk Bay, Fishhoek, Simon's Town and Boulders Beach await discovery.
Get around
Having your own car is an advantage. There is also a public train service that runs along the False Bay coastline. There is limited parking alongside the beach, but ample parking just a short walk away.
What to pack
The usual beach gear. Please remember that the African sun is extremely strong and a good sunscreen is recommended, particularly in the height of the South African summer.
What to eat
The False Bay coastline is particularly well-known for superb seafood. Make your way to Kalk Bay and Simon's Town for a choice of restaurants.You can also buy fresh fish straight off the boats in both Simon's Town and Kalk Bay.