Long Beach Simon's Town
A long, beautiful beach in Simon's Town, perfect for swimming, dog walking, and spotting marine life in its calm, cool waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Long Beach Simon's Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A long, beautiful beach in Simon's Town, perfect for swimming, dog walking, and spotting marine life in its calm, cool waters.
"I love this beach so much!! It's a glorious place to swim. Water is so calm, and you regularly see small kids and toddlers paddling here."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging when busy. Head out early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season.
🥶 Embrace the Cold Water
The water is bracingly cold year-round (around 13-15°C). Be prepared for a refreshing swim!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Expansive Shoreline
Simon's Town
A truly long stretch of sand perfect for strolls, dog walking, and soaking in the coastal views.
Calm Waters for Swimming
Simon's Town
Despite the cool temperatures, the water is often calm, making it a popular spot for swimmers and families.
+1
Marine Life Encounters
Offshore
Divers and swimmers can spot stingrays, sharks, and various fish species in the clear waters.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Wind
Embrace the Water Activities
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging when busy. Head out early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season.
🥶 Embrace the Cold Water
The water is bracingly cold year-round (around 13-15°C). Be prepared for a refreshing swim!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls
This is a popular spot for dog walkers, so bring your furry friend along for a beach adventure.
🤿 Dive into Adventure
Scuba divers and snorkelers can explore the underwater world and encounter diverse marine life.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging when busy. Head out early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season.
🥶 Embrace the Cold Water
The water is bracingly cold year-round (around 13-15°C). Be prepared for a refreshing swim!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls
This is a popular spot for dog walkers, so bring your furry friend along for a beach adventure.
🤿 Dive into Adventure
Scuba divers and snorkelers can explore the underwater world and encounter diverse marine life.
🌬️ Watch Out for Wind
Summer can bring strong winds, so check the forecast and be prepared for breezy conditions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Long Beach Simon's Town for its glorious swimming conditions and diverse, welcoming atmosphere, calling it a 'gorgeous snapshot of South Africa.' While parking can be an issue and summer winds are common, the beach's natural beauty and community feel make it a highly recommended spot.
"I love this beach so much!! 😭😍🌸✨️ It's a glorious place to swim. Water is so calm, and you regularly see small kids and toddlers paddling here. Lovely, diverse spot, too. All races, ages, and abilities come here. I so love that. It feels like a gorgeous snap shot of South Africa gathered and frolicking in the water. There's well maintained loos and changing rooms and parking. It can get super busy, but it is always well worth a visit."
nomonde mxhalisa
"Great beach. Parking might be a problem if there is lot of beachgoers. Go early for a good parking spot"
Bennie Harmse
"Long beach in Simon’s Town is a truly a long beach which stretches for several metres along the railway line and with a view of the Simon’s Town Naval Base.
It’s a popular spot for dog walkers and there’s not much development on the site.
Simon’s Town is one of the safer suburbs in Cape Town when it comes to crime, but tourists should ensure that safety mechanisms are in place.
In summer, it can be very windy"
Duncan Alfreds
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Long Beach is located in Simon's Town, a suburb of Cape Town. You can drive there, and it's about a 40-minute journey from the city center. Public transport options are available, but driving offers more flexibility.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can get very busy, especially during peak times and weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Simon's Town is generally considered one of the safer suburbs in Cape Town. However, as with any tourist destination, it's always wise to remain aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions.
While driving is convenient, exploring Simon's Town on foot or by bicycle can also be enjoyable, especially to discover its charming streets and historical sites.
The drive along the False Bay coast to Simon's Town offers beautiful ocean views. Consider taking the scenic route for a more picturesque journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Long Beach Simon's Town is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the beach and its amenities free of charge.
As a public beach, Long Beach is accessible at all hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
While the beach itself doesn't require booking, if you plan on participating in organized swims or diving tours, it's advisable to book those activities in advance with the respective operators.
Generally, there are no major restrictions, but it's a popular spot for dog walkers, and visitors are expected to be respectful of the environment and other beachgoers.
The beach offers well-maintained public restrooms and changing rooms, making it convenient for visitors.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The water temperature at Long Beach is consistently cool, typically ranging from 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F) year-round, even in summer.
Yes, it's an excellent spot for swimming due to its calm waters, making it suitable for all levels, including families with young children.
You might encounter short-tailed stingrays, various sharks (including broad-nose seven gill sharks), and juvenile fish. It's a popular spot for divers and snorkelers.
Absolutely! Long Beach is a popular location for scuba diving and snorkeling, offering opportunities to explore the underwater ecosystem.
Occasionally, events like the 'Waddle for the African Penguin' are organized, starting from Long Beach to raise awareness for conservation efforts.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the long sandy beach, the calm ocean, and the surrounding coastal landscape. Drone shots can offer breathtaking perspectives.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, perfect for landscape and portrait photography.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone to capture aerial views.
Keep your camera ready for potential sightings of marine life like stingrays and sharks, especially if you're diving or snorkeling.
The beach itself, with its vast expanse and the backdrop of the Simon's Town Naval Base, offers a unique photographic subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏊♀️ Open Water Swimmers & Divers
+2 Divers will find a rich underwater world with opportunities to see rays, sharks, and various fish. +1 Remember that the water is cold year-round, so proper gear and preparation are essential. Organized swim groups are common here. 🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Embracing the Cold Water: A Swimmer's Paradise
+2 The water temperature hovers around 13-15°C (55-59°F) year-round, making it a true test of endurance and a fantastic training ground for those who enjoy cold-water swimming. The visibility is often good, adding to the immersive experience. Organized swim groups and coaching sessions are frequently held here, catering to various skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or looking for a unique way to experience the coastline, Long Beach offers an invigorating aquatic adventure. Remember to always swim with a buddy or within a group for safety, especially in open water.
+1Beyond organized swims, casual swimmers and families also enjoy paddling and swimming in the sheltered bay. The gentle slope of the beach into the water makes it accessible for many, though the cold is a universal factor. It's a place where the community comes together to enjoy the ocean, regardless of the temperature.
Underwater Wonders: Diving and Marine Life
+2 The presence of juvenile fish adds to the richness of the underwater landscape. Scuba diving here offers a unique perspective on the local marine environment. Visibility can be quite good, allowing for clear views of the underwater flora and fauna. It's an excellent location for those interested in marine biology or simply seeking an adventurous underwater experience.
While sightings of larger marine life like sharks are part of the allure, it's important to remember that these are wild animals. Responsible diving practices and respecting their space are crucial. The area is also a testament to ongoing marine research, with some sharks being tagged for tracking and study.
A Community Hub: More Than Just a Beach
This inclusive spirit makes Long Beach a snapshot of South Africa's diverse population enjoying a shared natural resource. The presence of well-maintained facilities like restrooms and changing rooms further enhances its appeal as a family-friendly destination.
Despite its popularity, the beach retains a relatively undeveloped feel, with much of its natural charm preserved. This balance between community use and natural beauty is a key part of its appeal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit