Oudekraal Beach, part of the Table Mountain National Park area, is one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets. Not far from the crowd favourites like Camps Bay and Clifton, this little beach is tucked away in a cove and offers a very different kind of experience.
This area has both historical and spiritual significance for the Muslim community: from the turn of the 18th century it was used as a refuge for slaves who had escaped from the colonial authorities and their masters. Among them were Muslim spiritual leaders who had been captured and brought to the Cape after leading uprisings against slavery in the Dutch East Indies. The Oudekraal ravines provided seclusion and safety for them and allowed them to teach their disciples and keep Islam going in the Cape.
The spiritual, historical and natural importance of this area has left this piece of the coast relatively untouched. The parking lot sits above the beach with a boma and braai area for functions and a general braai area right above the beach. The layering means that the views are not interrupted and the sections are kept separate and private by the milkwood trees. The small sandy beach is surrounded by boulders that shelter the cove, creating a swimming area with gentle swells that are easy to swim through.
Just above the beach to the left is a grassy area with braai places for afternoon picnics. Stake out your spot to build a fire, lie on the beach or climb on one of the boulders and soak up the sun. This is one of those Cape Town spots that leaves you feeling in awe of the natural beauty that we’re surrounded by. The turquoise water, white sand and big boulders make this a favourite place for wedding shoots – you couldn’t ask for a more picturesque setting.