Hout Bay

Hout Bay calls itself "The Republic of Hout Bay" for good reason — this tight-knit community has a character all its own. Tucked between the Twelve Apostles and the Sentinel peak, the bay opens to a crescent of beach backed by a vibrant fishing harbor.

This is where you'll find the real Cape Town. Watch the fishing boats unload their catch, sample the freshest fish and chips at the harbour market, and then head out to Duiker Island — a short boat ride away — where thousands of Cape fur seals sun themselves on the rocks.

The harbour is also the traditional starting point for the famous crayfish diving experience. When it's crayfish season (November to April), there's nothing quite like catching your own lobster and having it cooked fresh on the beach.