Scarborough Cape Town
A tranquil conservation village on the Cape Peninsula, known for its white sand beach, surfing, hiking, and breathtaking coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Scarborough Cape Town
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil conservation village on the Cape Peninsula, known for its white sand beach, surfing, hiking, and breathtaking coastal views.
"Escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet beach day at Scarborough's secluded and peaceful shores. 
🚗 Explore by Motorbike
Rent a motorbike to discover hidden gems and less-traveled roads around Scarborough and Cape Point.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beaches
Scarborough Beach is a great spot for a scenic walk with your furry friends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scarborough Beach
Scarborough
Expansive white sand beach perfect for surfing, dog walks, and breathtaking sunset views.
Misty Cliffs
Scarborough
A serene coastal spot offering stunning ocean vistas and a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
The Village Hub
Scarborough
A charming local spot for delicious food, coffee, and unique gifts, featuring a deli and artisanal shops.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Explore by Motorbike
Rent a motorbike to discover hidden gems and less-traveled roads around Scarborough and Cape Point.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beaches
Scarborough Beach is a great spot for a scenic walk with your furry friends.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
The waves here are excellent for surfers, but swimmers should be cautious of strong currents.
💰 Budget-Friendly Options
Discover cost-effective activities and dining in Cape Town, including options near Scarborough. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Explore by Motorbike
Rent a motorbike to discover hidden gems and less-traveled roads around Scarborough and Cape Point.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beaches
Scarborough Beach is a great spot for a scenic walk with your furry friends.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
The waves here are excellent for surfers, but swimmers should be cautious of strong currents.
💰 Budget-Friendly Options
Discover cost-effective activities and dining in Cape Town, including options near Scarborough. +1
☕️ Local Eats
Try Sopra upstairs at The Village Hub for Italian or Camel Rock for a good meal, especially with music.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Scarborough is praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its expansive beach and dramatic coastal cliffs, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors appreciate its relaxed atmosphere, dog-friendly policies, and excellent sunset views. Some find local dining options limited or overrated, and the strong winds can be a factor for beach activities.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Scarborough is about an hour's drive south of Cape Town. Renting a car or using a ride-sharing service is common. Consider renting a motorbike for a more adventurous exploration of the scenic routes.
The drive is generally straightforward, but be aware of potential traffic, especially when leaving Cape Town. The roads leading to Scarborough are scenic.
Public transport options directly to Scarborough are limited. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services is the most convenient way to reach the area.
The drive offers beautiful coastal scenery. You'll pass by other attractions like Cape Point.
Yes, Scarborough makes for an excellent day trip from Cape Town, offering a relaxed coastal experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Scarborough Beach itself is generally free to access. However, nearby attractions like Cape Point Nature Reserve have an entry fee.
It's highly recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Opening hours for attractions like Cape Point Nature Reserve vary. It's best to check their official websites for the most up-to-date information.
While specific tours focusing solely on Scarborough might be less common, many Cape Peninsula tours will pass through or stop in the area.
Misty Cliffs is a natural area and typically does not have an entry fee, offering a free scenic experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy the beautiful Scarborough Beach, explore Misty Cliffs for stunning views, and visit The Village Hub for local food and crafts. It's also a great base for exploring Cape Point.
Scarborough is generally considered a safe area, with a strong sense of community. Visitors are advised to remain aware of their surroundings, as with any travel.
Activities include beach relaxation, surfing, hiking in nearby nature reserves, and enjoying local eateries.
Yes, Scarborough Beach is dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot for a walk with your pet.
Cape Town is known for its wind, and Scarborough can be windy, especially during certain times of the year. Be prepared for changing conditions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Sopra upstairs at The Village Hub offers Italian cuisine, and Camel Rock is known for good food, especially when there's music. Whole Earth Cafe is also mentioned, though some find it overrated.
The Village Hub features cafes where you can grab delicious coffee and light bites.
While in the broader Cape Town area, popular spots include Jarryd's for brunch and Chef's Warehouse at Beau Constantia for a tasting menu experience.
Dining options range in price. Local spots like those at The Village Hub can offer more budget-friendly choices.
Cafes and restaurants in the area often have vegetarian options. The Village Hub is a good place to check for diverse offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
Scarborough Beach at sunset offers incredible golden-hour views. Misty Cliffs provides dramatic coastal scenery.
Absolutely. The rugged coastline, expansive beaches, and dramatic cliffs make it a prime location for landscape photographers.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset is highly recommended for its warm, soft light that enhances the natural beauty.
The contrast between the wild ocean, the unique flora, and the charming village architecture offers many unique photographic moments.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant wildlife or details along the coast. A sturdy tripod is recommended for sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the waves can be strong, making swimming potentially challenging for younger children, the calmer areas or simply playing on the sand can be a great alternative. Remember to pack sun protection and snacks, as amenities might be more spread out than in busier tourist hubs. Consider visiting The Village Hub for family-friendly food options and a chance to explore local crafts.
For a more structured family outing, exploring the broader Cape Peninsula, which includes attractions like the penguins at Boulders Beach (though not directly in Scarborough), can be a good addition to your itinerary. 🚗 Budget Travelers
+1 Packing your own picnic or utilizing local cafes like those at The Village Hub can help keep food expenses down. Consider self-catering accommodation options if available, which can be more economical than hotels.
💑 Couples Retreat
The peaceful atmosphere of Misty Cliffs provides a perfect backdrop for quiet moments and intimate conversations. For a delightful culinary experience, consider dining at Sopra upstairs at The Village Hub for a cozy Italian meal or enjoying the ambiance at Camel Rock, especially if there's live music.
The tranquil environment of Scarborough allows couples to reconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature and good company.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Scarborough's Coastal Charm
The area is also a haven for dog walkers, providing a beautiful and safe environment for pets to roam. Beyond the beach, the nearby Misty Cliffs provide breathtaking ocean vistas and a sense of serene isolation, perfect for quiet contemplation or photography.
For those seeking a taste of local life, The Village Hub is a must-visit, offering delicious food, artisanal coffee, and unique gifts from local vendors. Renting a motorbike can add an element of adventure, allowing you to explore the less-traveled roads and discover hidden gems along the peninsula. When planning your visit, be mindful of Cape Town's notorious winds, which can be particularly strong from November to December.
Dining and Local Flavors in Scarborough
The Village Hub itself is a central point for local flavors, housing cafes that serve excellent coffee and light meals, as well as artisanal delis and shops.
This makes it a convenient stop for a casual bite or to pick up unique souvenirs. For those venturing further into Cape Town, highly-rated restaurants like Jarryd's are celebrated for their brunch, and Chef's Warehouse at Beau Constantia offers a memorable tasting menu experience for special occasions. When considering dining options, remember that Cape Town offers a range of price points. Exploring local spots in Scarborough can provide more budget-friendly choices, aligning with the city's reputation for offering cost-effective travel experiences.
Practicalities for Visiting Scarborough
For a more adventurous experience, consider renting a motorbike to navigate the coastal roads and discover hidden viewpoints. While public transport options are limited, ride-sharing services can also be utilized. Accommodation in Scarborough ranges from Airbnbs to guesthouses. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred lodging.
While Scarborough itself offers a peaceful retreat, nearby attractions like Cape Point Nature Reserve have entry fees.
The village provides a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter coastal experience away from the city's hustle and bustle. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit