Cape Point from Simon's Town: A Practical Day Trip Guide

Last reviewed: July 2026

Cape Point is one of the finest day trips from Simon's Town. The route follows the southern Cape Peninsula through coastal landscapes before entering the Cape of Good Hope section of Table Mountain National Park. It rewards an early start, sensible footwear and enough time to explore beyond the main viewpoint.

Driving from Simon's Town to Cape Point

The journey is straightforward and scenic, but travel times vary with traffic, wildlife and stops along the way. Leave early during summer, weekends and public holidays. Mobile reception is uneven in parts of the reserve, so download your route before departure and keep the park map available.

Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope are separate landmarks within the same protected area. The famous sign at the Cape of Good Hope marks the south-western tip of the African continent. Cape Point lies farther east and is known for its cliffs, lighthouse viewpoints and funicular.

Do the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet here?

The idea that two oceans meet in a neat line at Cape Point is a popular tourism story, not a precise geographic fact. The officially recognised meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian oceans is Cape Agulhas. Around Cape Point, changing currents and water masses create a dynamic marine environment without a fixed visible boundary.

The Cape Point lighthouses

The old lighthouse stands high above the point and can be reached on foot or by the Flying Dutchman Funicular. Its elevated position often left it obscured by cloud, which contributed to the construction of the newer lighthouse lower down the cliffs. The lower lighthouse remains an important navigational light and is viewed from the lighthouse trail rather than the upper platform.

The funicular fare is separate from the national park entrance fee. Prices and operating conditions change, so confirm both the gate tariff and funicular cost on the official Cape Point website before travelling.

Walks and viewpoints

• Upper lighthouse viewpoint: an accessible first stop with broad views across the peninsula.
• Lighthouse Keeper's Trail: a dramatic route towards the lower lighthouse viewpoint. Allow extra time and avoid exposed sections in severe wind.
• Cape of Good Hope: visit the sign and coastline, then consider the trail linking it with Cape Point if conditions and fitness allow.
• Diaz Beach viewpoint: admire the beach from above. Strong currents and the remote setting make it unsuitable for casual swimming.

Practical Cape Point advice

Bring drinking water, sun protection, a windproof layer and comfortable shoes. Weather can change quickly, even on a clear morning. Baboons are wild and can be dangerous around food. Keep vehicle windows closed when they are nearby, never feed them, and follow ranger instructions.

Swimming should be limited to designated areas when conditions permit. The coastline is exposed and currents are powerful. Stay behind barriers at cliff viewpoints and keep children close.

Where to stay near Cape Point

Staying in Simon's Town places you close to Cape Point while keeping restaurants, beaches and Boulders Beach within easy reach. Aqua Terra Guesthouse overlooks False Bay and provides a peaceful base for exploring the southern peninsula at an unhurried pace.

Browse our accommodation in Simon's Town, combine the day with our Boulders Beach penguin guide, or check available rooms below.

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