Gay Travel Guide to Cape Town: Beaches, Safaris, Wine & the City's Best Bars

Why Cape Town Should Be On Every Gay Traveller's List

Cape Town left us completely smitten. After a week exploring this city, we can safely say it's one of those rare places that genuinely has it all: mountains meeting beaches, wildlife encounters within driving distance, world-class wine an hour away, and an effortlessly welcoming LGBTQ+ scene that never felt forced or performative.

We weren't just ticking off sights—we were living it. Stumbling across hidden cafés in Green Point, discovering quiet trails on Table Mountain, laughing at our own sunburnt mistakes on Clifton 4th Beach. For gay travellers looking for somewhere that feels both stylish and approachable, Cape Town delivers without even trying.

This is everything you need to plan your trip: where to stay, which beaches to hit, how to survive the wine tours, and why that eight-hour drive to safari was worth every minute in the car.

Travelling as a Gay Couple in Cape Town

South Africa is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Africa, and Cape Town sits right at the progressive heart of it. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2006—making South Africa the fifth country in the world and the first in Africa to legalize it. The constitution explicitly prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.

In practice, this translates to genuine comfort in public spaces. We held hands walking through De Waterkant, Green Point, and the Waterfront without a single uncomfortable moment. Nobody stared. Nobody commented. It was just... normal.

De Waterkant is the unofficial gay neighborhood, marked by a rainbow pedestrian crossing and lined with LGBTQ+-owned cafés, boutique hotels, and bars. But the welcome extends well beyond one neighborhood. Every Uber driver, restaurant server, and hotel staff member treated us warmly, many actively asking about our relationship and offering recommendations for gay-friendly spots.

That said, South Africa is a big country with varied attitudes. Outside major tourist areas and progressive neighborhoods, caution is still advised. Stick to well-traveled areas, use common sense, and you'll be absolutely fine.

Where to Stay: LGBTQ+ Hotels We Actually Loved

Location matters in Cape Town. Stay in De Waterkant, Green Point, or City Bowl for walkable access to gay nightlife and a genuinely welcoming vibe.

Tree House Boutique Hotel - Our Perfect Green Point Base

This Green Point gem absolutely blew us away. The rooms are cozy without feeling cramped, the décor is stylish but not trying too hard, and the breakfasts made us want to linger in our pajamas all morning instead of rushing out to sightsee.

The owner clearly knows the LGBTQ+ travel scene inside and out. Breakfast conversations involved tips on which bars to hit, which beaches to avoid on windy days, and where to find the best coffee in the neighborhood. We met other gay couples every morning who shared their own recommendations, creating this lovely sense of community.

Location-wise, it's perfect. Five-minute walk to the Waterfront, ten minutes to De Waterkant's rainbow crossing and gay bars. Everything you need is within easy reach.

The Details:

Price range: £80-120 per night depending on room and season
Neighborhood: Green Point (safe, central, LGBTQ+ friendly)
LGBTQ+ vibe: Majority queer guests, explicitly welcoming, rainbow flags displayed
Why we loved it: Genuinely friendly owner, excellent breakfast, perfect location, met other travelers
Best for: Couples or solo travelers wanting a relaxed, inclusive base without breaking the bank
Book here: TreeHouse Boutique Hotel website or Booking.com

WORTH IT? Absolutely. Great value for money, perfect location, and you'll immediately feel at home. We'd stay here again without hesitation.

Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel - When You Want Proper Luxury

We didn't stay here, but we went for dinner twice because the experience is that good. This is classic Cape Town elegance—the iconic pink building, gorgeous manicured gardens, impeccable service that somehow feels friendly rather than stuffy.

It's not explicitly marketed as a "gay hotel," but it's very welcoming and attracts a sophisticated LGBTQ+ clientele. If you're celebrating something special or just want one night of proper indulgence, this is where you do it.

The Details:

Price range: £250-400+ per night
Neighborhood: City Bowl (central location, easy access everywhere)
LGBTQ+ vibe: Very welcoming, sophisticated crowd, inclusive without being specifically gay-focused
Best for: Couples wanting a luxury experience or anniversary/special occasion stay

WORTH IT? For a special occasion, yes. This isn't an every-trip hotel, but if you're splurging on one night of luxury, make it this one.

The Beaches: Sun, Sea & Our Catastrophic Sunburn

Cape Town's beaches are genuinely stunning—soft white sand, turquoise water, dramatic mountain backdrops. They're also where we made the stupidest mistake of the entire trip.

Clifton 4th Beach - Where We Learned About South African Sun

We spent our first afternoon here, straight after dropping our bags at the hotel. Classic British mistake: we looked at the slightly overcast sky, felt the cool breeze, and thought we'd be fine without factor 50 for a couple of hours.

We came away lobster-red. Properly burnt. The kind of sunburn where you can't sleep properly for three nights and your shoulders are on fire every time fabric touches them.

Learn from our pain: South African sun is brutal even when it doesn't feel hot. Factor 50 is not optional. Reapply every 90 minutes. We're not joking.

The beach itself is exactly what you've seen in photos. Soft sand, impossibly blue water, beautiful people everywhere, and rosé bottles being passed around like it's a social requirement. It's quieter than some of Cape Town's other beaches, making it easy to find a decent spot even on busy days.

The vibe is relaxed and inclusive. Plenty of gay couples, mixed crowds, everyone just enjoying the sunshine. No facilities directly on the beach, so bring everything you need—water, snacks, drinks, that factor 50 we keep banging on about.

The gay crowd tends to congregate toward the southern end of the beach, closer to the rocks. You'll know you're in the right spot when you see the rainbow towels and hear Kylie playing from someone's portable speaker.

The Details:

Location: Clifton 4th Beach, Camps Bay, Cape Town (GPS: -33.9478, 18.3773)
Cost: Free (no entry fee)
When to go: Arrive between 9-10am for good spots. By noon it's packed. Golden hour (around 6-7pm in summer) is magical for sunsets.
Getting there: Uber from city center costs 60-80 rand (£3-4, about 15 minutes). Tell your driver "Clifton 4th Beach" and they'll know. Parking is a nightmare—don't bother with a car.
What to bring: Suncream (seriously), water, snacks, drinks, towels, beach umbrella if you have one
Don't miss: The sunset from here is ridiculous. Stay for golden hour if you can.

⚠️ DON'T MAKE OUR MISTAKE: We forgot suncream and paid the price for three days. Factor 50 minimum, reapply constantly, don't trust the clouds or the cool breeze. South African UV is no joke.

WORTH IT? 100%. One of our favorite spots in Cape Town. Just don't be an idiot about sun protection like we were.

Sandy Bay - Cape Town's Clothing-Optional Beach

A short walk from Clifton, Sandy Bay is Cape Town's unofficial nudist beach. The sand isn't perfectly smooth and there are rocky patches, but the secluded vibe makes it worth the slightly rough terrain.

We went on a quiet weekday morning and had whole stretches of beach to ourselves. It's liberating, peaceful, and feels properly wild compared to the more manicured beaches elsewhere.

Fair warning: if you're going nude, factor 50 goes EVERYWHERE. We're not getting more specific than that, but trust us—burnt in weird places is not a holiday memory you want.

The Details:

Cost: Free
Getting there: 20-minute walk from Clifton 4th along coastal path
When to go: Weekday mornings for solitude, weekends for more social scene
What to bring: Towel, lots of water, factor 50 for everywhere, sense of adventure

WORTH IT? If you're comfortable with nudity and want a wilder beach experience, absolutely. Just manage your sun exposure carefully.

Boulders Beach - Swimming With Penguins

A short drive from Cape Town, Boulders Beach is home to a thriving colony of African penguins. Yes, it smells. Yes, the penguins are noisy (they sound like distressed donkeys). But watching them waddle around like tiny formal waiters heading to work is genuinely unforgettable.

There are designated swimming areas where you can get in the water alongside the penguins. It's surreal—you're doing breaststroke and suddenly there's a penguin torpedoing past you underwater. They're completely unbothered by humans, which somehow makes it even more special.

The Details:

Cost: Around 170 rand (£8) entrance fee
When to go: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds
Getting there: 45-minute drive from city center. Uber costs around 300-400 rand return. Consider hiring a car for the day and combining with Cape Point.
How long: 1-2 hours is plenty

WORTH IT? Absolutely. Swimming alongside penguins is one of those pinch-yourself moments that makes the whole trip worthwhile.

Wine Tasting: Getting Responsibly Drunk in Stellenbosch

We love wine. Not in a pretentious "notes of blackcurrant and oak" way—we just enjoy drinking it, preferably in large quantities while sitting somewhere beautiful. A private wine tour through Stellenbosch was always going to happen.

The Reality: You'll Be Tipsy By Noon

We booked a private Stellenbosch tour through Viator that included Hartenberg Estate. Our driver picked us up at 9am. By 11:30am we'd visited two vineyards, tasted ten wines, and were giggling at everything. By 2pm we were making friends with strangers and seriously considering buying cases of wine we couldn't possibly fit in our already-full suitcases.

This is not a complaint. This is a warning. The wine is exceptional, the tastings are generous, and you will get drunk. Pace yourself if you want to remember the afternoon, or lean into it and just enjoy the ride.

Hartenberg Estate: The Wine That Changed Everything

The Stork Shiraz we tasted at Hartenberg is one of the best wines we've ever had. Rich, complex, smooth enough to drink easily but interesting enough to actually pay attention to. We bought six bottles on the spot.

The estate itself is gorgeous—rolling vineyards, mountain views, the kind of scenery that makes you question your life choices and wonder if you should quit your job and become a winemaker. We resisted, but only just.

The vineyards are peaceful, the guides are knowledgeable without being snobbish, and the whole experience feels authentic rather than touristy. Even if you're not a wine person, the scenery and atmosphere make it worthwhile.

💡 JOE'S TIP: Don't worry about shipping wine home. We somehow fit 12 bottles into our already-full suitcases by wrapping each one in every piece of clothing we had. Our luggage looked like a bomb had gone off inside, but nothing broke. Determination is a powerful thing when good wine is involved.

The Details:

Cost: Around £75-100 per person for private tour including tastings at 4-5 vineyards
When to go: Year-round, but spring (September-November) has beautiful flowers
How to book: Through your hotel, Viator, or directly with tour companies
What to bring: Suncream, sunglasses, water, low expectations for your evening plans

⚠️ DON'T MAKE OUR MISTAKE: Don't book anything for the evening after your wine tour. You'll be exhausted and mildly hungover. We tried to go out that night and lasted about an hour before retreating to our hotel room to lie dramatically on the bed.

WORTH IT? One of our favorite days in Cape Town. The wine is exceptional, the scenery is ridiculous, and even if you're not normally a wine person, the experience is memorable.

Safari: Big Five Just a Drive Away

You don’t need to fly to Kruger to see Africa’s wildlife. We did a 2-hour drive to Aquila Private Game Reserve, and it was mind-blowing.

Aquila Private Game Reserve: Our Big Five Adventure

The moment we arrived, the excitement hit. Lions lazing in the sun, giraffes poking their heads over bushes, rhinos lumbering nearby—it’s everything you imagine when you think “African safari.”

We did the classic early morning game drive, where the light is golden and the animals are most active. Our guide, Sipho, was fantastic—he knew each animal by personality and told stories that made us laugh out loud in the middle of the savannah.

Highlights:

Seeing a lion pride wake up and stretch after their nap
A herd of elephants crossing a shallow river right in front of our vehicle
Close encounters with rhinos (without feeling like we were about to be trampled!)

The Details:

Cost: From £120 per person for a half-day safari
When to go: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and animal activity
What to bring: Hat, binoculars, suncream, light jacket for morning chill, camera

WORTH IT? Absolutely. Even if you’ve been on safari before, being so close to the Big Five just a short drive from Cape Town is unforgettable.

Nightlife: Bars, Clubs & De Waterkant Vibes

Cape Town’s nightlife is energetic without being exhausting. We focused on LGBTQ+ spots and trendy bars.

Crew Bar - Hip & Friendly

In De Waterkant, Crew Bar is small but packed with energy. The cocktails are excellent, staff are chatty, and the crowd is a mix of locals and travelers. Perfect for a pre-dinner drink or to start the night.

Cafe Manhattan - Late Night Dancing

If you want to dance, Cafe Manhattan is the spot. Housed in a former warehouse, the DJ spins everything from pop to house. The vibe is inclusive and lively—great for solo travellers and couples alike.

Tips for Nightlife:

Dress smart-casual; Cape Town locals love a little flair
Uber is the easiest way to get around safely at night
Weekends are busiest, but weekdays can be fun with smaller crowds

WORTH IT? Yes, especially for De Waterkant’s gay scene. Don’t miss it.

Food: From Fine Dining to Street Eats

Cape Town is a foodie playground.

The Test Kitchen - Fine Dining

For a special night, book The Test Kitchen. Innovative dishes, incredible presentation, and flavours that blew us away. Reservations are essential.

V&A Waterfront - Casual Eats

Waterfront has plenty of options from fresh seafood to pizza. Great for lunches when you want a view and convenience.

Local Markets - Street Food & Snacks

Neighboorhood markets like Oranjezicht offer fresh produce, artisan snacks, and excellent coffee. Perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch while exploring.

WORTH IT? Absolutely. Don’t leave without trying local seafood, biltong, and at least one gourmet tasting menu.

Activities & Experiences We Loved

Table Mountain Hike: Iconic, strenuous, but worth it for the panoramic views of Cape Town. Go early to avoid the crowds.
Robben Island Tour: Historic and moving, offering insight into South Africa’s past and Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment.
Shark Cage Diving: We didn’t do it (windy Cape Town thwarted us), but many friends swear it’s unforgettable. Just check the sea conditions first—Cape Town wind is famously fierce.
Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope: Stunning drives, rugged cliffs, and fantastic photo opportunities. Combine with penguins at Boulders Beach.
Kayaking with Seals: Fun and active, giving a unique perspective of the Waterfront and harbor area.

FAQs: Cape Town Travel Tips

Q: Is it safe for gay travellers?
A: Yes, in Cape Town city and tourist areas. Exercise standard travel caution in less-populated areas.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: November to March for beach weather; September to November for spring flowers.

Q: Do I need a car?
A: Not strictly in the city, Uber is excellent. For wine tours or Cape Point, a car or private tour is convenient.

Q: What about currency?
A: South African Rand (ZAR). Many places accept cards, but smaller vendors often prefer cash.

Essentials: What You Must Pack

Sun protection: Factor 50 sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestones and mountain trails are everywhere
Swimwear: Beaches and hotel pools await
Light layers: Cape Town wind can be brutal—even in summer
Camera or smartphone: For capturing penguins, mountains, sunsets, and everything in between

Closing Thoughts: Cape Town, You Won Us Over

Cape Town is a city that charms effortlessly. From the mountains to the sea, the vineyards to the nightlife, and the genuinely welcoming LGBTQ+ community, it ticks every box we could imagine for a memorable holiday. We left with sunburns, full stomachs, and a million photos—and the urge to return as soon as possible.

Whether it’s your first trip to South Africa or a return visit, Cape Town will reward you with beauty, adventure, and a sense of freedom that few cities can match. Book your stay, pack your suncream, and prepare to fall in love.

Bonus Tips for LGBTQ+ Travellers

Local Etiquette: Cape Town is relaxed and open, but in public transport or less-touristed areas, discretion is advised. Holding hands is fine in city neighborhoods, but always trust your instincts.
Events & Festivals: Cape Town Pride (late February/early March) is the biggest LGBTQ+ event in the city. Keep an eye on smaller pop-ups, rooftop parties, and themed nights in De Waterkant.
Community Resources: Check TravelGay.com for updated gay-friendly guides and events. The staff at your hotel will usually know the latest hot spots too.

Instagram: Follow @sightsflightsandbfs for LGBTQ+ travel inspiration and destination guides.
YouTube Vlog: Our Cape Town adventures are fully documented on our channel—watch for tips, day-by-day itineraries, and full visual guides.
Local Apps: Download Uber, Google Maps, and Windfinder. Uber is essential for safe transport, Maps for navigation, and Windfinder to avoid cancellations from Cape Town’s famously strong winds.

Quick Reference Checklist

Beaches: Clifton 4th (suncream!), Sandy Bay (optional nudity), Boulders Beach (penguins!)
Wine: Stellenbosch private tours, Hartenberg Estate highlight
Safari: Aquila or Garden Route reserves for Big Five encounters
Nightlife: Café Manhattan, HALO, Kong Bar & Lounge
Dining: Karibu (traditional), The Veranda (Belmond), Red Room (seafood), Rooi (One & Only)
Activities: Table Mountain, Robben Island, Cape Point, kayaking, local markets
Packing Essentials: Suncream SPF50+, layers, swimwear, comfortable shoes, camera, hat, sunglasses

Final Words: Travel With Love & a Little Luxe 🌈✈️

Cape Town is one of those rare places where you can feel completely yourself. The LGBTQ+ friendliness is genuine, the scenery is breathtaking, and the experiences—from sun-soaked beaches to adrenaline-pumping safaris—are unforgettable.

We left with sunburns, a few wine-induced giggles, and memories that will last a lifetime. We’ll be back, and we suggest you start planning your trip now.

Travel well, stay safe, and never underestimate the power of factor 50. Cape Town is waiting, and it’s better than you imagine.

Follow our adventures:

Instagram: @sightsflightsandbfs
YouTube: Planes, Sights & Boyfriends

Save this guide—pin it, bookmark it, or share it with anyone planning a Cape Town escape. You won’t regret it.

Watch our full Cape Town vlog on YouTube for the visual tour, and follow us on Instagram @sightsflightsandbfs for more LGBTQ+ travel tips and destination guides.
Travel with us, always with love and a little luxe 🌈✈️