Muizenberg Pavilion
The first Muizenberg Pavilion, a wooden structure, was built in 1910 by the Kalk Bay-Muizenberg Municipality. Designed by municipal engineer D.P. Howells, who also oversaw its construction, the pavilion quickly became too small. Architect William John Delbridge designed an expansion, adding two-thirds more space. This extension, opened on 16 December 1911 by Cape Administrator Sir Frederic de Waal, featured a large tearoom, lean-to verandah, private dressing cubicles, and fresh-water showers. By 1914, the pavilion could accommodate up to 3,000 bathers daily.
World War I delayed further beach improvements planned by the Cape Town Municipality, including a promenade, pier, and additional gardens. These developments, originally planned since 1913, were authorized by the ‘City of Cape Town (Muizenberg) Improvement Act’ in 1925, as the beach was government-owned.
The wooden pavilion remained the main facility until 1930, when it was replaced by a grand concrete and brick structure. This new pavilion, completed in 1929 and opened on 14 December 1929 by Cape Administrator Mr. Conradie, was described as “an imposing edifice complete with magnificent appointments without parallel in the Southern Hemisphere.” It featured a viewing promenade, theatre, dance hall, restaurant, restrooms, and showers. The wooden pavilion was demolished after 1930.
The ‘New’ Pavilion stood for over 40 years but fell into disrepair by the late 1960s. Sea air corrosion caused severe spalling, leading to its demolition at the end of the 1960s. A third pavilion, the current one, was then built.
Today, the Muizenberg Pavilion features a water slide, outdoor swimming pool, and mini-golf (putt-putt) course. The seafront walkway from Muizenberg to St James offers scenic views, rock pools, and whale sightings from June to November. The back beach area hosts restaurants, unique shops, and vendors offering snacks, cold drinks, fast food, and ice cream. Surfers’ Corner, at the beach’s end, is ideal for novice surfers, with local surf shops providing board rentals and lessons.
