Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes - free parking
Nudity Policy
NOT REQUIREDNudity is not required
The Good
- Incredible Views in a Secluded Spot: Tucked away between mountains and the ocean, Sandy Bay is like a little slice of paradise. It's got this postcard-perfect scenery that makes you feel a million miles away from everything.
- The Hike is Half the Fun: Getting to the beach is a bit of an adventure. It's a hike, sure, but the views along the way are totally worth the effort.
- Clean, Quiet, and Chill: Despite being popular, this beach keeps its cool, clean vibe. There's no commercial buzz around, just pure, unspoiled nature.
- LGBTQI Friendly Vibes: It's a welcoming spot for the LGBTQI community, which adds to its cool, inclusive feel.
- More than Just a Beach: Beyond the sandy shores, there's some awesome hiking around, like the trails leading to the BOS 400 shipwreck. It's a great side adventure if you're up for it.
- Perfect for a Beach Day: The beach itself is great for laying out or taking a dip. The waves are normally just right for a swim, and the sand couldn’t be better for sunbathing.
The Bad
- A Bit of a Trek to Get There: Brace yourself for a bit of a hike to reach Sandy Bay. It's about a 20-30 minute walk from where you park, and in the heat, it can feel like a mini workout.
- Keep Your Wits About You: There have been a few sketchy encounters reported in the area. If you're going solo, especially as a woman, it's smart to stay aware of your surroundings and leave before dark.
- No Facilities: Don't expect any luxuries like showers, food or bathrooms here. It's all about nature, so plan to pack in (and out) everything you need.
- Chilly Dips Await: The Atlantic Ocean isn't exactly a warm bath here. If you're planning on a swim, be ready for some pretty brisk waters.
- Parking Can Be Tricky: Finding a spot for your car can be a test of patience, especially when it's busy. You might have to park a bit away and walk more than you planned.
- Watch The Waves: The ocean can be a bit rough around here, with strong currents on some days. It's a good idea to be cautious if you're planning to take a plunge.
The Naked Truth
Sandy Bay is full of surprises – a beautiful, secluded beach that demands a bit of effort to reach. Is the 20-30 minute hike worth it? Absolutely, if you're seeking tranquility and stunning natural beauty. But it's not without its quirks; the Atlantic waters are brisk, facilities are non-existent, and parking can be a bit of a hassle. The vibe is relaxed and respectful among fellow beachgoers, though occasional reports of unsavory characters mean it's best not to venture alone. In short, Sandy Bay is a spectacular spot for those willing to embrace its rugged, unspoiled charm, but it may not be everyone's cup of tea. For a hassle-free experience, come prepared, and maybe bring a buddy.
Insider Tip
Bring all your supplies with you, including lots of water for the hike in and out. There are no facilities at this remote beach.
Who's Here
Mixed couples but predominately older males
Beach Surface
Soft white sand
Access Difficulty
Hard - a strenuous 20min walk each way
Photos
Our Visit
Contributor Review – Camila Pearson
Local Expert. Visited 2023
We recently ventured to Sandy Bay, a well-known nudist beach tucked away near Cape Town, and what an experience it was! Sandy Bay is one of a very few nude beaches in Africa. Known for its stunning views and crystal-clear waters, Sandy Bay is an absolute gem for anyone who cherishes their freedom and the natural beauty of South Africa. The beach is popular among a mix of individuals and couples, creating a relaxed, respectful vibe. On the day we visited it was mostly single middle aged males but there were also a few couples. It's serene most of the year, though weekends can get a bit busier.
Contributor Review – Camila Pearson
Local Expert. Visited 2023
We recently ventured to Sandy Bay, a well-known nudist beach tucked away near Cape Town, and what an experience it was! Sandy Bay is one of a very few nude beaches in Africa. Known for its stunning views and crystal-clear waters, Sandy Bay is an absolute gem for anyone who cherishes their freedom and the natural beauty of South Africa. The beach is popular among a mix of individuals and couples, creating a relaxed, respectful vibe. On the day we visited it was mostly single middle aged males but there were also a few couples. It's serene most of the year, though weekends can get a bit busier.
Getting to the beach is a bit of an adventure. It's about a 1km hike from the parking lot, and on a hot day, it feels much more. We chose the longer path because it isn't as steep and involved no scrambling. The path is flanked by fynbos (small heath bushes), and the stunning views along the way make the walk worthwhile. Once there, you're greeted by a stretch of lovely sandy beach, surrounded by mountains on three sides, with the vast Atlantic Ocean in front. The main beach area is spacious, but there are also smaller coves and secluded spots among the dunes or on the rocks, perfect for those seeking a bit of privacy.
For first-timers at a nude beach, Sandy Bay is quite welcoming. People here are generally respectful and keep to themselves. There's a sense of community among regulars, and everyone seems to share a mutual understanding of the unspoken beach etiquette. It's important to note, however, that there have been occasional reports of unsavory characters, so it's wise to stay vigilant, especially if you're visiting alone. There are also isolated incidents of theft from the beach that we read about elsewhere. I'm not sure I would feel comfortable visiting Sandy Bay alone but I felt safe being here with a friend. We didn't see anything concerning and had a great relaxing day escaping the heat.
There are a few things to keep in mind for your visit. There are no facilities like showers, bathrooms, or vendors, so come prepared with your essentials. The waters can be icy cold, and the ocean currents are strong, making swimming a bit risky sometimes. Parking can be tricky, and the area is known for petty crime, so ensure your car is securely locked and consider tipping the car guard for extra peace of mind. Despite these minor drawbacks, Sandy Bay stands out as one of the most peaceful and beautiful nude beaches in South Africa.
Map
Getting There
The walk from the parking area is about 1km and can take around 25 minutes. This path, while scenic, is quite strenuous, especially on a hot day. It's advisable to tip the car guard at the parking lot for extra security and to grab your last refreshments from a vendor there, as there are no facilities at the beach itself. There aren't any public transportation options and you'll need to take an Uber if you don't have wheels.
By Car:
- Hout Bay Car Park - longer walk but flatter terrain: If you're driving head to the northern end of Hout Bay and park there. From this car park, the walk to Sandy Bay is longer but flatter and more manageable. However, be aware that the car parks are relatively small, and spaces fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early or being prepared to walk a bit further from your car is often necessary.
- Llandudno Car Park - shorter walk but much steeper: Alternatively, head south from Cape Town towards Llandudno. There are two main parking options for Sandy Bay. The first is to park at the southern end of Llandudno and then clamber over the rocks to reach the beach. This route is more direct but can be challenging terrain-wise.
Recommended Accommodation
Nearby Port Nature Hout Bay Apartments is the only clothing optional accommodation closer to the beach.
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