Start at Surfer's Corner in Muizenberg for a short seafront walk to St James and back. The City of Cape Town announced on 23 October 2026 that the St James Walkway access at Surfer's Corner and the western parking area had reopened. Work was still under way elsewhere on the Muizenberg beachfront, so follow signs on the day and check any newer notices before you go.

Featured photograph: St James beach and its bathing boxes in 2004. Luca Galuzzi, CC BY-SA 2.5. Archival photograph. Featured framing may be cropped.

Start at Surfer's Corner for the coastal section

The City's reopening notice identifies Surfer's Corner as the point where visitors can access the walkway again. It also identifies the refurbished western parking area next to the railway line. If you're driving, aim for that area and allow time to find another legal space if it is full. If you arrive at Muizenberg by train, follow the pedestrian signs towards the beachfront rather than trying to cross the railway.

The City's Muizenberg Beach page describes the seafront walkway as a link between Muizenberg and St James. Use the marked path and check its condition at the entrance. This is a close-to-the-water walk. Give yourself space if waves are reaching the walkway and turn back if the route is closed or conditions don't suit your group. The October notice describes accessible parking bays and pedestrian paths within the upgraded parking area. Check the whole route separately if someone needs step-free access.

Make St James the turnaround

Use the St James tidal pool and beach as your destination. Take time to look across False Bay and see the bathing boxes, then return along the same walkway if it is open. You can do the outing in ordinary walking clothes and keep swimming as a separate decision. Check the City notices and signs at the pool if you intend to go in.

The tidal pool, rocks and False Bay at St James — St James tidal pool and the False Bay shoreline, 2018. Archival photograph by Moheen Reeyad, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Plan the return before adding another stop

If you came by car, the out-and-back keeps the return straightforward. If you're using the Southern Line, you can consider ending your walk at St James and travelling onward or back from there, subject to the day's service. Check the correct direction, timetable and return before leaving your accommodation. The Western Cape Government's timetable notice points to PRASA information. Our Southern Line guide covers the longer train trip separately.

For a longer outing, make Kalk Bay a separate stop for lunch or the harbour. Check how you plan to get from St James and back. The City notice concerns the walkway access from Muizenberg to St James. Plan any extension separately rather than assuming one continuous seafront path. If the coast path is closed, visit one open beachfront area and save the walk for another day.

The City was still working on the central ablution facility when it announced the reopening. Its December target was for most of the project work, so check current amenity access and follow temporary signs. That matters more if you're travelling with children or someone who needs a specific facility.

Staying on the False Bay coast for a separate part of your Cape Peninsula trip? Aqua Terra in Simon's Town welcomes guests aged 12 and over. Check Aqua Terra availability.

Editorial review by Aqua Terra. City reopening and facility guidance checked 3 November 2026. Recheck access, sea conditions and rail service on the day.