Muizenberg Beach Cape Town
Muizenberg’s Remarkable Journey: From a Forgotten Seaside Resort to South Africa’s Thriving Surf and Cultural Haven
From the end of the nineteenth century till the 1960s, Muizenberg was South Africa’s premier seaside resort. Randlords built palatial mansions on the hillside and the seafront. Trains ran directly from Johannesburg without stopping in Cape Town. The town prospered and was architecturally very similar to many seaside towns on the south coast of England. At its height, there were about 50 hotels and guesthouses in the Muizenberg area.
From the 1970’s decline and urban decay set in. There were several reasons. The two most important were that; firstly, the hotel infrastructure was old and dated and secondly, the N3 motorway was built connecting Johannesburg and Durban in six hours. The lure of reaching your destination quickly to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean in modern accommodation proved too much for old Muizenberg. The nadir was the year 2000 when pimps, hookers and drug dealers ran riot through the streets (and those were the good days!)
The situation since then has been transformative. Slowly and one by one, problems buildings have been fixed, squatters evicted, slumlords have sold up, and fresh new investment has come in. Law-abiding and tax-paying citizens have reclaimed Muizenberg.
The town is now the surf kindergarten of South Africa. The beachfront is being populated by surf shops and schools and an increasing variety of upmarket restaurants and coffee shops. Incredibly, in this town, there are no vacant commercial buildings. The two large empty lots remaining on the beachfront will be developed during 2013, with more shops, eateries and residential accommodation becoming available. The charm of the “village” area has been augmented by responsible new owners renovating the beautiful rows of Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco houses.
Whereas the hotel stock is still limited, with only the upmarket boutique hotel Colona Castle available, an increasing number of guesthouses and backpacker lodges are opening. There is optimism and confidence in the air.
Uyaphi has been present in Muizenberg since 2008, and we are pleased to be associated with and be part of the upliftment of this charming seaside town.
We end the year on this good news story and wish you all, our customers and our suppliers, a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2013.
Muizenberg Beach Cape Town by Uyaphi.com
Travel To Cape Town Now
Map of Hotels in and around the Cape Town and the Western Cape
Cape Town Travel Topics
Tintswalo Summer House
Tucked into the charming seaside village of Glencairn, Tintswalo Summer House is a beautifully restored heritage villa where refined luxury meets the wild beauty of the Cape Peninsula. Individually decorated suites, each with its own character, offer an intimate retreat designed for slow mornings and unhurried afternoons. Savour thoughtful, locally sourced coastal cuisine at the Summer House Eatery, with the Atlantic as your backdrop, before exploring the Southern Peninsula's pristine beaches and the dramatic scenery of Cape Point.
Tintswalo Boulders
Tucked away in the seaside village of Simon's Town, Tintswalo Boulders is an intimate boutique villa and one of the Cape Peninsula's best-kept secrets. Just steps from the famous Boulders Beach and its beloved penguin colony, this retreat offers stunning ocean views and the quiet exclusivity that discerning travellers seek. Nine elegantly appointed suites each have their own unique outlook over the Atlantic, with daily breakfast, sunset canapés and cocktails, luxurious en-suite bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and free parking included.
Camps Bay Village
At Camps Bay Village, you'll discover a stunning collection of luxurious crash pads, charming seaside studios, inviting garden studios, and deluxe holiday villas. Perfectly suited for a romantic escape or an adventure-packed family getaway, this accommodation truly stands out. These exceptional villas not only offer incredible value but also provide an unmatched combination of comfort, style, and location. Whether you're soaking up the sun or exploring the city, Camps Bay Village ensures an unforgettable stay.
Waterfront Village
Experience unparalleled luxury with a stay at the Waterfront Village, an exquisite retreat nestled in the heart of the vibrant V&A Waterfront precinct. With a stunning collection of 80 private residences, each meticulously designed with exceptional attention to detail, these accommodations offer a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. From the thoughtfully curated amenities to the serene atmosphere, every element of your stay promises to pamper and delight. Without a doubt, this is the ultimate setting to immerse yourself in Cape Town's charm while enjoying the pinnacle of elegance and relaxation.
Ellerman Villa Two
Nestled in the prestigious Bantry Bay, Cape Town, Ellerman Villa Two is a luxurious private retreat that redefines indulgence. Surrounded by mountain ranges and offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, it's one of the most exclusive destinations for those seeking peace and refinement. Perfect for families or small groups, the villa features three beautifully designed bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom and private terrace, offering exceptional comfort and space. Every detail, from the elegant interiors to the stunning views, is crafted for an unparalleled luxury experience.
Ellerman Villa One
Ellerman Villa One offers a truly extraordinary escape. Overlooking Bakoven, Bantry Bay, the Twelve Apostles, and the ocean, this three-story villa defines coastal luxury. With five stunning bedrooms, a private deck, and a pool, every detail is designed for a seamless, indulgent stay. The villa includes a dining room and a fully equipped kitchen, giving guests the freedom to create their own experiences. Offering privacy and independence from Ellerman House, it's the perfect retreat for those seeking sophistication and exclusivity.
Colona Castle
Colona Castle is a luxurious retreat near Muizenberg, offering stunning views of the Cape Flats, False Bay, Table Mountain, and the Constantiaberg. Ideally located, it's just 5 minutes from the Constantia Winelands, 25 minutes from Cape Town's city centre, and close to Boyes Drive and Boulders Beach's famous penguins. Colona Castle offers accommodations that seamlessly blend comfort with modern amenities, creating an experience that is both indulgent and effortless. What truly distinguishes the hotel is its unique ability to craft unforgettable moments, pairing its opulent surroundings with an unparalleled location.
Tintswalo Atlantic
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean's rugged boulders and the slopes of Constantiaberg, near the charming Hout Bay, Tintswalo Atlantic offers a serene escape. This hidden gem invites guests to relax in tranquillity, with stunning ocean views from private balconies or luxurious freestanding bathtubs. The accommodations are beautifully designed, combining elegance and comfort, while the friendly staff ensures every need is met with care. Whether enjoying the stunning views or the tranquil atmosphere, Tintswalo Atlantic offers unmatched relaxation.