Best Day Trips from Cape Town

You can easily spend a month in Cape Town without getting bored. There are plenty of things to do in Cape Town itself, but you can also do numerous day trips to places nearby.

1. Boulder’s Beach

Do you like penguins? Visit Boulder Beach to find a colony of penguins that have been here since 1982. You’ll also find tons of large boulders that line the water’s edge which makes this day trip perfect for the inner photographer in you.

It takes less than an hour to drive from Cape Town to Boulders Beach and there is a small entrance fee to the beach. It’s one of the best day trips from Cape Town!

IMPORTANT: They may seem like cuddly creatures, but do not feed or touch them. Aside from it being a violation of conservation efforts, the penguins have very sharp beaks and will defend themselves if they feel threatened.

Woman posing by a penguin warning sign in Cape Town, highlighting the blend of urban and wildlife experiences available to tourists in the area

Traveler relaxing on the sand next to an African penguin at Boulders Beach in Cape Town, representing the close-up interactions with nature that the city's beaches provide.

2. Gaansbai

This popular fishing town about 2 hours away from Cape Town which makes another great day trip from Cape Town. It’s well known for those looking for adventure in the depths of the ocean.

Shark Cage Diving with great white sharks and whale watching are what the area is most known for and people come from all over the world to see these arguably misunderstood (but undeniably dangerous) creatures up close.

If that’s not quite the thrill you’re looking for then that’s not all you can do in Gaansbai. Chill by the coast, enjoy some bird watching, try the catch of the day at one of the local restaurants, explore some water caves in a kayak, or explore the landscapes like the Dangerpoint Lighthouse built in 1895.

1. Boulder’s Beach

2. Gaansbai

3. Cape of Good Hope