Can You Picnic at Cape Point? Buffels Bay and Bordjiesrif Guide

Yes, you can picnic inside the Cape of Good Hope section of Table Mountain National Park. Buffels Bay and Bordjiesrif are the best-known coastal picnic areas, with dramatic scenery, tidal pools and space for a slower stop away from the Cape Point lookout crowds.

Buffels Bay or Bordjiesrif?

Buffels Bay is a good choice for a classic beach-and-picnic stop. Its sheltered setting and tidal pool can work well for families, but there are no lifeguards and swimming is always at your own risk.

Bordjiesrif offers another scenic coastal setting and is useful when you want a picnic or braai stop as part of a wider Cape Point drive. Both areas are linked to the reserve gate times, and last entry rules can limit a late-afternoon plan.

Can you braai there?

SANParks lists picnic and braai facilities at Buffels Bay and Bordjiesrif, but access conditions can change with fire risk, maintenance and capacity. Check the official SANParks picnic-site page before packing charcoal or equipment. General visitors do not complete indemnity forms at the Cape Point gate, but SANParks still requires them at designated picnic and braai facilities.

What should you bring?

• Food in secure containers, plus drinking water.
• A windproof layer, sun protection and sturdy shoes.
• A bank card, because Cape Point and Boulders gates are cash-free.
• Identification if you qualify for South African or SADC conservation rates.
• A rubbish bag so nothing is left behind.

Baboons are attracted to food and can become aggressive. Keep car doors closed, do not display food unnecessarily, never feed wildlife and follow ranger instructions.

How much time should you allow?

Allow at least 60 to 90 minutes for a relaxed picnic, in addition to time at the Cape of Good Hope sign, Cape Point lighthouse area and any walks. Trying to add a full picnic to a rushed Peninsula day often means arriving too late or losing daylight.

Winter gate hours are shorter than summer hours. Access can also be affected by weather, wind or temporary park notices. Check the Table Mountain National Park page on the morning of your visit.

Why start from Simon's Town?

Simon’s Town is a practical base for Cape Point because the reserve entrance is south of the city, with Boulders Beach and the False Bay coast on the way. Staying nearby gives you room to picnic without treating the Peninsula as a race against traffic.

Aqua Terra Boutique Guesthouse is an owner-managed, five-suite property overlooking False Bay. Check live availability at Aqua Terra, or message Garth on WhatsApp for local planning help.

Park rules, access, fees and facilities can change. Confirm the latest information with SANParks before departure.