Windmill Beach
A charming hidden gem in Simon's Town, offering calm waters for snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and scenic views with a picturesque windmill.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Windmill Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming hidden gem in Simon's Town, offering calm waters for snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and scenic views with a picturesque windmill.
"A hidden gem! Small beach with calm waters and soft sand. We were there on a Monday in September and it was quiet and relaxing."
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is very limited. Arrive early or consider alternative transport to avoid disappointment.
🤿 Gear Up for Snorkeling
Bring your snorkel gear! The protected waters are teeming with marine life, making it a top spot for underwater adventures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Snorkeling Paradise
Protected by boulders
Discover vibrant marine life, including nudibranchs and small sharks, in calm, clear waters. Perfect for underwater exploration.
Penguin Spotting
Near the shore
Keep an eye out for adorable penguins! This beach is a known spot for these charming creatures, adding a unique wildlife encounter.
Scenic Windmill View
On-site
Admire the picturesque, non-working windmill that lends the beach its name, offering a charming backdrop for photos.
Underwater Photography
Various dive sites
Ideal for capturing stunning underwater content, with diverse marine life and kelp forests to explore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Windmill Beach
Boat Traffic Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is very limited. Arrive early or consider alternative transport to avoid disappointment.
🤿 Gear Up for Snorkeling
Bring your snorkel gear! The protected waters are teeming with marine life, making it a top spot for underwater adventures.
🐧 Penguin Watch!
You might get lucky and spot some penguins! Keep a respectful distance and enjoy the wildlife.
👟 Watch Your Step
Access involves walking down stairs, so wear comfortable shoes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is very limited. Arrive early or consider alternative transport to avoid disappointment.
🤿 Gear Up for Snorkeling
Bring your snorkel gear! The protected waters are teeming with marine life, making it a top spot for underwater adventures.
🐧 Penguin Watch!
You might get lucky and spot some penguins! Keep a respectful distance and enjoy the wildlife.
👟 Watch Your Step
Access involves walking down stairs, so wear comfortable shoes.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenic windmill and coastal views are perfect for photography, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Windmill Beach is lauded as a hidden gem with calm, soft-sand waters perfect for snorkeling and wildlife spotting, including penguins. While its charm is undeniable, visitors note that limited parking and the beach's small size can lead to crowding, especially during peak times. The presence of boats also requires extra caution for swimmers.
"A hidden gem! Small beach with calm waters and soft sand. We were there on a Monday in September and it was quiet and relaxing. But can see that it would get busy in the summer."
Dena Miccinello-Barbarula
"Nice little place to sit and enjoy a book. Safe place for kids to splash in the water but watch for boats. These pictures are from a foggy day in April. Not 5 stars because there is little parking."
Eff C
"Tiny beach in order to get there you must walkdown some stairs. On site a pretty non working windmill for display and scenic view. Their is limited parking and all in all a cozy spot. But I would not bathe on this beach, too many boats abound."
T AA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Windmill Beach is located in Simon's Town, Cape Town. Access involves walking down some stairs. Parking is very limited, so arriving early on weekdays is recommended. +1
Parking is extremely limited at Windmill Beach. It's advisable to arrive very early, especially during peak season, or consider alternative transportation.
You can drive to Windmill Beach, which takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour from Cape Town city center, depending on traffic. Public transport options are less direct.
Access to Windmill Beach involves walking down stairs, which may be a consideration for those with mobility issues.
Yes, cycling is a viable option, and some visitors have parked their bikes here to explore the neighborhood.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Windmill Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee or tickets.
Windmill Beach is accessible at all times, as it is an open public beach. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
Yes, Windmill Beach is completely free to enter and enjoy.
While there are no specific entry restrictions, it's a small beach that can get crowded. Be mindful of boat traffic and always practice responsible beach etiquette. +1
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of facilities. Daylight hours are best for enjoying the beach.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Windmill Beach is excellent for snorkeling, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding), lounging, and wildlife spotting (penguins!). It's also a popular shore dive spot.
The waters are generally calm and protected, making it suitable for swimming and splashing, especially for families. However, be aware of boat traffic. +1
You can spot nudibranchs, small sharks, kelp forests, and soft coral. It's a fantastic spot for divers and snorkelers.
Yes, it's a family-friendly spot with calm waters for kids to splash in. However, constant supervision is advised due to boat activity. +1
The beach features soft sand, making it a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The picturesque windmill, the calm waters, and potential wildlife sightings like penguins offer great photo opportunities. The light on the water can be gorgeous in the morning.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for underwater content creation due to its clear waters and diverse marine life. 
Mornings often offer beautiful light on the water, and the golden hour before sunset can also provide stunning scenic shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local bylaws and ensure you have any necessary permits before flying a drone.
The non-working windmill itself is a key landmark for photos, offering a unique visual element to the beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
The clear, protected waters are teeming with marine life, including nudibranchs, small sharks, and vibrant kelp forests. Divers and snorkelers can spend hours exploring the rich biodiversity. The beach is also a prime location for capturing stunning underwater photography. +1📸 Photographers
The calm waters and potential for wildlife sightings, like penguins, add further photographic opportunities. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Underwater World
The presence of soft coral further enhances the visual appeal of this underwater ecosystem. It's considered one of the best spots in Cape Town for shore dives and underwater photography. +1For those without diving certification, snorkeling offers a fantastic way to experience the marine wonders. The shallow, protected waters are perfect for beginners and families. Visitors have reported seeing small sharks and a variety of fish, making every dip an adventure.
The clarity of the water, even with occasional red tide, allows for impressive views. Remember to bring your own gear or rent it locally to make the most of this aquatic playground. Beyond the typical marine life, there's also the exciting possibility of spotting penguins! These charming birds are known to frequent the area, adding a unique and memorable wildlife encounter to your visit.
The Charm of Windmill Beach
While the beach is a haven for relaxation, it's important to be aware of its limitations. The small size means it can become quite crowded, especially during high tide and the summer months.
The beach's appeal extends to its historical context, being a 'history-filled stop off the beaten path' on the Yarmouth shore.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit