Named 5th most ‘Instagrammable’ country in the world, South Africa and the magnificent city of Cape Town is certainly making the rest of the world take note with its beauty, charm and vibrant energy. Being one of the most beautiful and exciting cities in the world means Cape Town’s Insta-worthy charm has captured the hearts of travellers, photographers and everyone looking to snap that perfect Instagram moment.
Boasting a variety of iconic landmarks, awe-inspiring natural gems, exciting attractions and some of the most magnificent coastlines and beaches in the world, it’s no surprise Cape Town has fast become one of the most sought-after travel destinations around the world. But with so many beautiful and exciting destinations to choose from, where exactly do you start?
Here are 20 of the most Instagram-worthy places in Cape Town and around that should absolutely be on your Cape Town bucket-list:
Most Instagram-worthy Places in Cape Town and Around
1. The top of the iconic Table Mountain
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Of course we’ll start our most Instagram-worthy places in Cape Town and around list with the most majestic mountainous giant of them all, Table Mountain. With an elevation of 1 085 meters above sea level, Table Mountain has the ability to capture your eye in a matter of seconds, and certainly your heart too. It therefore comes as no surprise that people travel from all around the world to see this majestic Mother Nature creation first-hand. Thereby not only making it one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Cape Town, but one of the Mother City’s most beloved landmarks and celebrated attractions. Being one of the New7 Wonders of Nature means Table Mountain is a natural gem in every way, but besides its unapologetic beauty it certainly has a sense of adventure that encourages you to step outside of your comfort zone.
From hiking, climbing, paragliding, abseiling or taking a trip on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, there are a variety of exciting ways to explore this Cape Town gem. But whichever way you choose to get to the top, nothing will quite beat the feeling once you do. Some call it magnificent, some call it awe-inspiring and some merely call it magical, but the view from the top of Table Mountain is all that and so much more. It’s something everyone who visits Cape Town should get to experience!
Reaching the top of this iconic flat-topped mountainous giant is therefore a must-do Cape Town bucket list experience in every way! And if you’re looking for the full incredible Table Mountain experience you should definitely take advantage of our jam-packed Table Mountain and Robben Island Tour or the exciting Table Mountain Hike and Abseil experience.
RELATED: Here’s Why You Must Try An Overnight Hike on Table Mountain at Least Once This Year
2. Boulders Beach & its African Penguin colony
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Boulders Beach and its charismatic colony of African Penguins have stolen the hearts of many Cape Town locals, world travellers and wanderlust wonderers. And it definitely isn’t hard to understand why. Not only is the unique and captivating Boulders Beach one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Cape Town, but an absolute must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the Mother City. And seeing the ultimate Cape Town cool kids, the African Penguins, in their natural habitat is without a doubt a bucket-list worthy Cape Town experience in every way.
Boulders Beach is known for its large granite boulders, sheltered bay and picture-perfect beach escape. With its African Penguin viewing site being its main attraction, it has fast become one of Cape Town’s most beloved beaches. With its African Penguin viewing site being its main attraction. But, besides being able to witness these incredible and equally adorable ocean beings in their natural habitat, there are also a variety of other exciting adventures you can experience. From swimming and sunbathing with them by your side to snorkelling and kayaking alongside them, it promises to be one incredible adventure you wont soon forget! Plus, it’s tons of fun for the whole family.
3. The colourful Muizenberg Beach Huts
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The colourful Muizenberg Beach Huts, also known as the Muizenberg Bathing Boxes, has made its way onto the cover of many travel magazines, post cards and Instagram feeds. Thereby proudly and boldly claiming its spot as one of the most Instagram-worthy Cape Town hotspots. It’s definitely one of the most vibrant and colourful ones too! Muizenberg Beach is also known as one of Cape Town’s favourite beaches and surfing hotspots. It also features a colourful display of beach huts for keen photographers or anyone looking to capture that beautiful Instagram snapshot.
Characterised by its large outstretched beach, street-lined hangouts and surf shops and laid-back vibe, it has positioned itself as one of Cape Town’s most beautiful blue-flag swimming beaches. Besides being one of the best places for a fun-filled Cape Town beach day, Muizenberg’s Surfers Corner is known as one of the Mother City’s most renowned surfing hotspots, as well as one of the best places to learn how to surf.
RELATED: Muizenberg: A Charming Coastal Getaway in Western Cape
4. Camps Bay tidal pool
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The beautiful Camps Bay has established itself as one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. With thousands of travellers, jetsetters and globe-trotting adventurers travelling to this Cape Town gem to experience just a second of its beautiful beachy magic. Boasting one of the most scenic coastlines and backdrops of the Twelve Apostles mountain range and Lions Head, it’s no surprise that it’s known as one of the best and most beautiful beaches in Cape Town.
Often compared to the South of France, Camps Bay is renowned for its long, gorgeous white beach at the edge of the beautiful turquoise waters, spectacular backdrop, swaying palm trees, trendy side-walk cafes and vibrant Camps Bay sunset strip that will have you sipping cocktails and loving life well into the morning hours. But besides all its beauty, beach bliss and bold approach to life, Camps Bay is also home to one of the most magical hidden gems in the Mother City, the Camps Bay tidal pool. And one very few people get to discover unless they know about it.
Visiting this amazing Camps Bay spot at sunset is nothing short of spectacular. Showcasing one of the most magical sunset views over the Mother City you have ever seen, without a doubt makes the Camps Bay tidal pool one of the most magnificent Instagram-worthy places in Cape Town. It will be awesome to capture your sunset-loving heart in every way. Plus, feel free to take a refreshing dip in the cool tidal pool waters if you’re up for it!
RELATED: 8 Reasons to Plan a Visit to Camps Bay During Your Cape Town Vacation
5. Lions Head Peak
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Standing tall at 669 meters above sea level, Lions Head has established itself as a beloved icon of the Cape Tow skyline. It’s such a beautiful attraction everyone should get to see on their visit to Cape Town. Besides being one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Cape Town, hiking up the majestic Mother City lion has fast become one of the most sought-after experiences for locals and travellers alike.
Boasting one of the most magnificent panoramic views of the Mother City in all her glory, Lions Head has certainly established itself as one of the very best vantage points in Cape Town. Besides the fact that it’s known for its wild beauty, unbeatable views and great hiking ability, this mountainous gem has also claimed the spot of one of the best sunrise and sunset spots in the Mother City. Thereby making a Lions Head sunrise or sunset hike a bucket-list Cape Town experience you won’t soon forget. So, whether you’re an avid hiker and adventurer looking to capture that perfect Lions Head summit snapshot, or if you’re not much of a hiking fanatic at heart and merely looking to admire its beauty from below, it promises to be a memorable experience in every way.
6. Woodstock’s Street Art & trendy graffiti scene
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If you’re looking to experience the edgier artistic side of Cape Town, Woodstock is the perfect place to do it. The cool neighbourhood of Woodstock has made quite the comeback and positioned itself as one of Cape Town’s trendiest neighbourhoods and hubs of artistic expression. The Mother City has certainly established herself as one of the hippest creative hubs for graffiti artists around the world, with the vibrant Woodstock being right at the centre of it all. Therefore, making it the ultimate destination for locals and travellers from all around the world to see Cape Town’s vibrant street art scene in action.
Boasting bold creative expressions and graffitied works of art from both local and international artists, it’s no surprise that exploring Woodstock’s colourful side streets has fast become one of the most sought-after Cape Town experiences. And something absolutely everyone should get to be a part of! Who knows, you might just be converted to the ultimate street art lover!
7. The infamous ‘Diving Board’ at Kasteelpoort
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Calling all adventure enthusiast and lovers of all things daring, this one is for you! The Kasteelpoort hiking trial is by far one of Cape Town’s most sought-after hiking routes. And definitely one of the most exciting and thrilling ones too. Home to the renowned ‘diving board’ at the top of its summit, this Cape Town hiking experience has become a real fan favourite amongst the adventure loving souls and those looking for something a little more daring.
As the name suggests, the ‘diving board’ hangs right over the edge and has been known to get even the most experienced adrenaline junkie’s heart racing. Besides it’s ‘living on the edge’ allure, the diving board also boasts some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, Lions Head, Robben Island, Camps Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and beyond. It has even made its debut on many travel magazine and Instagram feeds for obvious reasons. Although one of the more thrilling Instagram-worthy places in Cape Town and around, it is not to be tempted by the inexperienced or faint hearted. But you can certainly admire its bold beauty from afar.
8. The charming & colourful Bo-Kaap
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Known as Cape Town’s most colourful neighbourhood, the culturally diverse and charismatic Bo-Kaap has established itself as one of Cape Town’s most Instagram-worthy places and must-visit destinations for travellers from around the world. Known for its colourful houses that line the steep cobble-stoned streets, it is one of Cape Town’s oldest neighbourhoods as well as one of its most beloved attractions.
With its colourful streets, vibrant energy and welcoming atmosphere that embraces people from all walks of life, Bo-Kaap is also celebrated for its Cape Malay cuisine. You can enjoy a traditional Cape Malay meal at one of the many restaurants and authentic eateries in the neigbourhood. This is certainly a Cape Town bucket-list experience that should be on everyone’s list.
In addition to its delicious Cape Malay cuisine and lively atmosphere, this Cape Town gem also boast a rich cultural diversity. Formerly known as the Malay Quarter, Bo-Kaap’s cultural background and rich history has played a major role in where it is today and how far it’s come. And discovering everything this colourful Cape Town neighbourhood is all about and what makes it so unique, truly is worth every second.
9. West Coast National Park in full bloom during flower season
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There is no sight quite as magical as the West Coast National Park in full bloom during Cape Town’s flower season. Every year from the beginning of August till the end of September the West Coast National Parks bursts into a glorious celebration of colour as Cape wildflowers come to life. It’s such a beautiful and colourful celebration it is to bear witness to!
The West Coast National Park is therefore known as the ultimate destination to see the Cape’s glorious wildflowers in their raw and untamed state, completely unapologetic, relentless in their spectacular pursuit to set the west Coats alight in a magnificent burst of colour. This incredible display of Mother Nature at her finest is known to draw fauna and flora lovers from all around the world in the hopes to experience the Cape’s West Coast beauty in full bloom. Besides being one of the Western Cape’s most sought-after destinations during flower season, the West Coast National Park is also home to a variety of natural gems and beautiful beaches that will without a doubt capture your heart.
10. Cape Point
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Located within the world-renowned Table Mountain National Park, a declared Natural World Heritage site, Cape Point is any nature lover’s paradise. Including the magnificent Table Mountain chain which stretches from Signal Hill to Cape Point, and the coastlines of the Cape Peninsula, you not only get to witness some of Cape Town’s most beautiful natural gems and landmarks but explore and experience its adventurous side too.
Encompassing 7750 hectares of rich and varied fauna and flora, 250 species of birds, and abounded with bucks, baboon and cape mountain zebra, there is far more to this Western Cape natural wonder than what meets the eye. Not to mention the fact that it’s home to some of the most magnificent and unspoiled beaches in Cape Town. Some of which are regarded as some of the Mother City’s best kept secrets and hidden gems. It also boasts a variety of scenic hiking trails, walking routes, cave discoveries and tons of adventures just waiting to be experienced by you.
11. Chapman’s Peak Drive
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Are you ready to experience one of the most magnificent views of your life? Because there’s no view quite like the renowned Chapman’s Peak Drive view, and it’s bound to leave you awe-inspired and speechless in the very best way. Positioned along the Atlantic Coast between the charming fishing village of Hout Bay and Noordhoek along the beautiful Cape Peninsula, Chapman’s Peak Drive, also affectionately known as ‘Chappies’, is known as one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world. This is definitely what everyone should get to experience at least once in their lives. Boasting 114 curves, a 593-southerly extension of Constantia Berg and a rocky coastline showcasing sensational panoramic views, a drive along this iconic Cape Town road promises a truly memorable experience. But if you’re looking to make it extra special, a sunset drive is absolutely magnificent in every way!
12. Bloubergstrand & its magnificent Table Mountain view
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Not only is Bloubergstrand with the striking Table Mountain in the background the most ‘Instagrammed’ spot in Cape Town, but definitely one of the most beautiful ones too. Known for its outstretched white sandy beach, turquoise waters, vibrant beach-front and laid-back vibe, Bloubergstrand is one Cape Town beach that has stolen the hearts of many locals and travellers. But besides boasting one of the very best views of the iconic Table Mountain, Bloubergstrand is also known as the wind and Kitesurfing hotspot of Cape Town.
Every year kitesurfers from around the world travel to this beachy Mother City gem to experience just a second of its thrilling windy vibe. And watching it from afar is one magical and colourful sight indeed! In addition to being a mecca for adventure water sports and surfing, as well as one of the best escapes for a blissful beach day, Bloubergstrand is also one of the very best sunset spots in the Mother City. There’s nothing quite like watching the Cape Town sun set over the majestic Table Mountain and striking Atlantic Ocean to send chills down your spine. You’ll surely experience the full magical force of that on your visit there!
RELATED: 15 Most Essential Things To Do On Your First Visit To Cape Town
13. Kirstenbosch Treetop canopy walk
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Acclaimed as one of the great Botanic Gardens of the world, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens is one of Cape Town’s most beautiful natural gems. And whether you’re a die-hard nature enthusiast, moderate lover off all things green or if you merely appreciate the simple beauty nature has to offer, a visit to Kirstenbosch is an absolute must for anyone visiting Cape Town.
Celebrated for its indigenous natural beauty, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is also known as the Cape Floral Kingdom and boasts a spectacular display of fauna and flora. But besides its unapologetic scenic beauty, glorious Table Mountain display, variety of hiking trails, guided tours, waterfalls, picnic spots and so much more, Kirstenbosch is also home to the amazing and thrilling Treetop Canopy Walk!
The Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway is a curved steel and timber bridge that winds and dips its way through and over the trees of the Arboretum. Informally called the ‘Boomslang’, due to its structure and design being inspired by a snake skeleton, this is one exciting experience that will be thoroughly enjoyed by every member of the family. And the view from above is something pretty special.
14. The Old Biscuit Mill
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Known as Cape Town’s own capital of cool, the Old Biscuit Mill is definitely one of Cape Town’s most Instagram-worthy spots and a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the Mother City. Celebrated as the ultimate inner-city hub of art, design, food and all things unique and trendy, the Mill, as its affectionately known by locals, is the perfect place for a day out exploring Cape Town.
Located in the trendy Cape Town suburb of Woodstock, this cool Mother City hangout boasts an exciting local market and an authentic and unlikely culinary hub that’s known to draw quite the crowd. The variety of renowned restaurants found at the Old Biscuit Mill as well as the Neighbourgoods Market, one of the coolest markets in Cape Town, therefore makes a visit to the Mill a real treat. But besides all the cool market vibes and delicious things to eat, this iconic Cape Town attraction is also known for its artistic flair and creative pursuits. The Old Biscuit Mill isn’t known as a mecca for local art and design for nothing, and you’ll have tons of fun exploring everything it has to offer.
RELATED: The Ultimate Bucket List: 60 Things To Do In Cape Town In 2019
15. Clifton Beach
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Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Clifton Beach is pure picturesque beach perfection. Not only has it established itself as one of the finest and most exclusive beach destinations for locals, world travellers and international jetsetters, but one of Cape Town’s most Instagram-worthy places too. Boasting immaculate white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, a spectacular view of the Twelve Apostles mountain range and Lions Head as well as a vibrant energy, it’s no surprise that people just can’t get enough of that Clifton Beach magic.
Divided into four distinct coves by stretches of granite boulders, Clifton’s renowned 1st, 2nd. 3rd and 4th beach has therefore not only made it onto the covers of many travel magazine, postcards and Instagram feeds, but has become the ultimate beach hotspot for relaxing getaways. Along with its prestigious reputation, stunning beaches and majestic views, Clifton also boasts a variety of trendy hotspots, renowned restaurants, cool cafés and chic hangouts. It’s therefore safe to say that Clifton Beach is pure beach bliss, and whether you choose to lounge on the beach and soak up all the sun-kissed moments it has to offer, or admire it’s beauty and charm while strolling along the shore, it promises to be well worth it.
16. The captivating Cape Winelands
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Beauty, charm and a charismatic appeal, the Cape Winelands is without a doubt one Cape Town destination you don’t want to miss out on. The Western Cape is home to the largest and most unique wine producing region in Africa. Making up quite a substantial portion of the Cape’s landscape, the Cape Winelands boasts a variety of picturesque wine routes such as Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington, Franschhoek, Constantia, Durbanville, Darling and Walker Bay winelands. Each adding its own unique scenic beauty to the Cape Winelands region.
Being home to some of the most renowned Wine Estates in the world also means the Cape Winelands has an endless array of top-tier wines to offer all its guests. You’ll certainly regret it if you don’t give as many of them as you can a try! The Winelands is also known for its enchanting beauty, majestic mountain range and vineyard views, exceptional food and wine pairing experiences, winemaking and vineyard tours and exciting Winelands adventures. And our Cape Winelands Full Day Tour promises to make your trip to the Winelands an unforgettable one.
RELATED: Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Cape Town Winelands on your Next Trip
17. Robben Island
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A visit to the renowned Robben Island is one enriching experience that deserves to be on everyone’s Cape Town bucket-list. Robben Island is not only one of Cape Town’s most cherished landmarks, but a vital piece of South Africa’s history and journey to democracy. Thereby making it one of the Mother City’s most renowned attractions for travellers from around the globe.
Due to the 18-year incarceration of Mr. Nelson Mandela (former South African President and iconic world leader), Robben Island is home to one of the most recognisable prisons in the world today. And offers visitors a real, raw and authentic perspective into a vital and defining piece of South Africa’s history. But besides its historical importance, Robben Island offers spectacular scenery and a pretty interesting geographical and environmental perspective too.
There are a variety of ferries and boat trips that depart from the V&A Waterfront to Robben Island daily, allowing you to get the full incredible experience. On your way there you might even encounter an extra special treat, a glimpse of the Cape Fur Seals and African Penguins! And our Table Mountain and Robben Island Tour is certainly one jam-packed tour experience you won’t soon forget.
RELATED: 20 Must-See Cape Town Attractions
18. Hout Bay’s Duiker Island & its thriving colony of Cape Fur Seals
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Hout Bay is not only one of Cape Town’s most beloved and charming fishing villages, but home to the renowned Duiker Island and it’s thriving colony of Cape Fur Seals too. Thereby making it one of Cape Town’s most Instagram-worthy destinations and the ultimate spot for locals and travellers looking to experience Cape Town’s diverse marine life in one of the most incredible ways. If seeing the charming and cool Cape Fur Seals up-close-and-personal in their natural habitat is not at the top of your Cape Town bucket list, it definitely should be now. The very best place to do it is at Hout Bay’s Duiker Island, also known as Seal Island.
During the Cape Town Summer months, Duiker Island is inundated with over 6000 Cape Fur Seals who can be seen sunbathing and swimming about. Hout Bay, more specifically the Hout Bay Harbour, has therefore become the ultimate destination for boat charters to the renowned Duiker Island. Multiple boat charters depart daily in order to give visitors an authentic look at these cool Cape Town ocean locals loving life right there in their natural habitat. But if you’re looking for something a little more daring and adventurous you can also choose to snorkel with the Cape Fur Seals. But whichever ocean adventure you choose, it promises to be one you won’t soon forget.
RELATED: Why You Should Add Hout Bay to Your Cape Town Bucket List Now
19. Sunset at Maiden’s Cove
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The view of the striking Twelve Apostles mountain range from Maiden’s Cove at sunset is not only one of the most magical Mother City views, but certainly one of the most photographed as well. Nestled between two of Cape Town’s picturesque beaches, Clifton and Glen Beach, Maiden’s Cove is one of the Mother City’s most beautiful look out points. Somewhat of a local Cape Town hidden gem, this beloved beachy hideaway has not only claimed a spot as one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Cape Town, but one of the best sunset watching hotspots too.
Besides boasting a spectacular view of the Twelve Apostles, Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean and beyond, Maiden’s Cove is also a popular braai spot and therefore the perfect place for a fun day out. It’s also known to be one of the best free diving spots in the Cape Peninsula and one of the best places to enjoy a variety of incredible marine life sightings. Dolphins can often be spotted frolicking in the water and during the months of June to November, it’s fantastic for whale watching too. A visit to Maiden’s Cove should therefore definitely be on everyone’s Cape Town bucket list.
20. The vibrant V&A Waterfront
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The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront located in the heart of the Mother City has established itself as the ultimate hub for just about everything. Once a scruffy fishing harbour, this reimagined waterfront district is now one of the city’s top attractions. Home to over 450 retail outlets, over 80 restaurants and eateries, jazz venues, world-renowned hotels, cinemas, theatres, drama school, museums, as well as the magnificent Zeitz MOCAA Museum of Contemporary Art Africa and the Two Oceans Aquarium, the V&A Waterfront has something for everyone to enjoy.
The Waterfront is also home to a sensational harbour that acts as a point of departure for a variety of boat trips and ocean adventures. But besides it’s beautiful harbourfront and thriving shopping and entertainment scene, this Cape Town hub is also home to a few of Cape Town’s best markets, namely the V&A Food Market and the Watershed at the V&A. As well as one of Cape Town’s famous yellow frames that are scattered around the city at various iconic Mother City locations. Capturing a V&A Waterfront Table Mountain snapshot with the iconic yellow frame as your outline has therefore become somewhat of a Cape Town rite of passage. And one you should definitely experience for yourself too.
A visit to some of the most Instagram-worthy places in Cape Town and around promises to fill your trip with all the beauty, wonder and adventure your heart desires. Each offering something unique and exciting, each destination deserves a prime spot on your Cape Town bucket -list.
Looking for the best Instagrammable places in Cape Town for the best photography opportunities? We can help! Learn more about the Mother City, how to get around, things to do in Cape Town, and more from our blog. We can help you find the perfect place to stay. Get in touch if you’d like help finding accommodation or Cape Town tours to indulge in when you are around.
