Best Beaches in Cape Town for Family Photos

Cape Town has no shortage of beautiful beaches, but when it comes to family photos, some work far better than others.

These are the ones I come back to again and again, not just because they’re beautiful, but because they consistently give the best results.

1. Noordhoek Beach

Noordhoek is, in my opinion, the ultimate.

It’s spectacular with a vast, open stretch of white sand that goes on for kilometres. You’ve got sand dunes, a seasonal lagoon, scattered boulders and that wild, open ocean. There are no houses in the background, which makes such a difference in photos.

Sitting at the foot of Chapman’s Peak, it feels completely untouched.

The sunsets here are unrivalled.

If you’re after something natural, open and a little bit wild, this is it.

2. Scarborough Beach

Scarborough has a very unique feel, but is just as special.

It sits on the edge of a Cape Point Nature Reserve, at the foot of this small surf village. You’ve got rock pools, fynbos, a long stretching mountain range through Misty Cliffs and that same wild, untouched ocean energy.

There are few homes in the background, giving a raw nature feel.

It feels quiet, remote and very “Cape Town” in a more understated way.

If you are after raw, wild and untouched, this is your location.

3. Bakoven Beach

Bakoven is tiny, but beautiful.

It’s made up of shells and boulders, with views of Lion’s Head and works really well for more contained sessions.

I especially love it for:

• maternity shoots

• families with very little ones who aren’t walking yet

• or even just adults

Keep in mind, that this beach is close to Camps Bay and in a residential area, so is generally quite busy.

It’s not a “run-around”, playful kind of beach, it’s more still, more intimate and iconic.

4. Llandudno Beach

Llandudno is known for its big boulders and that deep blue surfers ocean.

It’s an picturesque beach and it’s also quite central, which makes it practical for a lot of families.

That said, there are many big homes and crowds of people in the background compared to the others. It’s something to be aware of, but is still a fantastic choice and never disappoints with its sunsets.

Final thoughts

To be honest, these are the only beaches I really ‘choose’ to shoot at.

There are many many more in Cape Town, but these consistently give the best results, both visually and in how the sessions actually feel.

I always help guide you on the best location based on your family, your kids, where you are staying and the kind of feel you’re drawn to.