Diaz Beach
This remote and unspoiled sandy beach is within the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, which forms part of the Table Mountain National Park. Diaz Beach faces the full force of the Atlantic Ocean with jagged rocks stretching out into the water. It is only accessible by foot off a pathway from the main parking area. This is a lovely beach surrounded by 200m high cliffs and can be seen when you look down from the Cape Point lighthouse. It is a bit of a challenge to access the beach as the path is steep but the climb is worth it to get to a virtually empty beach. However, it is very dangerous to swim here because the currents/rip tides are very strong. You can safely walk up to your ankles, but no further. On the beach are two sandstone pinnacles which people often climb to the top of to sunbathe. If you want to see a spectacular sunrise or sunset Diaz Beach is the place.
Visiting this beach is best at low tide early in the day before the wind picks up. During summer southeaster winds batter the coastline. In winter, the wind blows from the north and the beach is protected by the surrounding cliffs. The north wind also brings a swell, which makes this beach popular with surfers Swimming here however is not safe.
Dogs can be walked between Bayview and the Estuary but keep them on leashes to protect the wildlife that can also be seen in the area, there are ostriches, baboons, seals and African penguins. Red Hartebeests as well as “dassies” live in this area too. Sharks are another reason to avoid swimming here.
Check the tides here
Best beaches in the Western Cape article
