The main attraction to living in West Beach is the suburb’s long stretch of tranquil beach with uninterrupted views of Table Mountain from the iconic angle showing its flat top. Up until recently, West Beach was one of the few areas in Cape Town where there was still space for development and property prices were more affordable, which has attracted many younger people looking to get on to the property ladder.
The rise of West Beach
This rise in the suburb’s popularity has come at a bit of a cost, however, as these days West Beach has a lot more traffic. Still, at least you have a nice view of the mountain as you inch towards work or school, and when you get back home after a hard day’s work, you can go for a stroll along the beach or a quick dip in the ocean. West Beach is mostly made up of freestanding houses, with a few large properties high up on the hill – although these come along with hefty price tags. There are also some townhouse complexes, and while property sizes aren’t huge, they still offer better value than you’d find anywhere nearer Cape Town’s city centre.
The area also attracts young people looking to rent who are drawn particularly to the outdoorsy lifestyle. Not as glitzy or as busy as Clifton or Camps Bay in high season, West Beach offers unspoilt beaches and respite from the “busyness” of the city. There are some great private schools in the area and a strong community feeling, and a neighbourhood watch that patrols regularly. The MyCiTi bus route also runs through the neighbourhood, so there are good public transport links available.
West Beach also marks the start of the Cape West Coast region, so places like Darling, Langebaan, Paternoster and Churchhaven are easily accessible when you want to get out of the city for a weekend break.
“The thing I like most about living in West Beach is the proximity to the beach. As former Joburgers, we wanted to be near the sea when we moved here, so we love having it just five minutes away.” (Lynda Ingham-Brown)
Things to do
- Go kiteboarding and learn the basics or perfect your tricks.
- Head out for a surfing session.
- Join the stand-up paddle boarders and catch some waves.
- When the wind gets up, go windsurfing and make the most of it.
Best in food
- Pick up some goodies at Carlucci’s deli, set off for the beach and have a picnic.
- Grab a burger at Jerry’s Burger Bar, sit on the deck and soak up the views of Table Mountain.
- Head to the Cattle Baron for a plate of the best ribs in town.
- Visit The Blue Peter Hotel for drinks on a weekend afternoon.
Great transport links
- The MyCiTi bus route runs through the neighbourhood, giving you easy access to the rest of Cape Town
- Get on your bike and head down one of the many cycle paths into the city
- Head away for weekends down the West Coast, just a few hours’ drive away
Words: Belinda Mountain
