The Travel Girly Guide to Cape Town
A local’s take on surf, sun & sisterhood at the tip of Africa
Welcome
Cape Town isn’t just another destination — it’s a rhythm. Mornings start with waves, afternoons drift into coffee and sunshine, and evenings glow in golden light over the Atlantic.
But travelling solo can feel daunting, especially somewhere new. That’s why we’ve created this guide — to help you explore Cape Town safely, soulfully, and like a local.
From surf spots and secret cafés to hikes, thrift shops, and women-friendly travel tips — we’ve got you covered.
“This is your sign to book that ticket — and find your flow in Cape Town.”
Curated by: The Now Now Collective — surf, yoga & adventure retreats for women.
Everything you wish someone told you before landing.
Beyond the tourist beaches — here’s where locals actually go.
Kommetjie: Laid-back surf town with small waves, slower days, and salty locals.
Witsands: Wild and unspoilt, perfect for a day trip and dolphin spotting.
Llandudno: Icy water, golden sunsets, and the prettiest rocks to watch from.
Beta Beach (Bakoven): Hidden cove for quiet swims and sundowners.
Smitswinkel Bay: A secret cove near Cape Point — steep trail down, pure magic.
Beach Day at Cape Point: Remote, raw, and unforgettable — bring everything you need.
See the Seals in Kalk Bay: Fish & chips, harbour walks, and lounging seals.
Snorkel in Simon’s Town: Explore the kelp forests with Into the Blue or Cape RADD.
Swim, Surf & Soak
Eat, Sip & Refuel
Cape Town is obsessed with good food, coffee, and community.
Hout Bay Collective: A creative café space perfect for journaling or co-working.
Good Riddance Coffee (Kommetjie): Coffee heaven with friendly locals.
Green Room (Kommetjie): Post-surf smoothies, wraps, and poke bowls.
Scone Shack (Scarborough): Rustic, cozy, and homemade everything.
Veld & Sea (Cape Point): Foraged feasts and botanical dinners — a must if you can book a spot.
Mexicola Locale (Hout Bay): Tacos, mezcal, and beach-party energy under the fairy lights.
Blondies (Gardens): Palomas, playlists, and vibey bar for perfect people-watching.
Cape Point Vineyards: Sunset picnics with mountain views.
Strangers Club (Green Point): Concept store & café with curated local brands.
Aegir Project (Noordehoek): Craft Beers & Burgers
Shop Small & Local
Cape Town’s best finds are independent and full of heart.
Float Apparel: Minimal surfwear made ethically in Cape Town.
Bleu Label: Swimwear & Yoga apparel
Wetsuit Warehouse: Locally owned surf shop for gear, boards & wetsuits.
Atlas Label: functional and timeless pieces of surf attire and swimwear that honor the environment and it’s people
Zazu Swim: Surfsuits and swimwear for surfer girls
Hunny Swim: Boutique Swimwear
Flow Stories: Movement inspired activewear
Thrifting: Obs, Woodstock & Long Street have the best vintage finds — denim, surf tees, and handmade jewelry.
Stay: Dreamy, Safe & Social
Salty Crax (Bloubergstrand): Social but chill — ideal for surf girls.
Hout Bay Dune Backpacker Lodge: Peaceful, friendly, and close to the beach.
Never@Home (Green Point or Kloof Street): Modern, clean, social — female dorms & café.
Ashanti Lodge (Gardens): Classic favourite with mountain views & pool.
Stoked Backpackers (Muizenberg): Directly opposite Surfers Corner — fun, safe, and surfy.
African Soul Surfer (Muizenberg): Art, yoga, and beach vibes.
From the Airport
Uber: Use the Women Drivers option to pair with verified female drivers.
Bolt: Offers Women Only ride type in Cape Town.
Or ask your accommodation to arrange a private airport transfer (recommended if heading straight to Kommetjie or Hout Bay).
💡 Pro tip: airport Wi-Fi is free for 30 mins.
Getting Around
Uber for city travel.
Hire a car for coastal exploring (Noordhoek, Cape Point, Scarborough).
Book small group day tours if you don’t want to drive.
Money & Connectivity
Tap payments work everywhere.
Keep R200 cash for markets or parking attendants.
Get a local SIM (Vodacom or MTN) or an eSIM (Airalo/Holafly).
Safety
Cape Town is safe if you stay aware and stick to the right areas.
Don’t walk alone at night.
Use Uber/Bolt instead.
Don’t leave valuables visible.
Trust your intuition — friendly doesn’t mean familiar.
Download Namola (free safety app) for peace of mind.
Health & Essentials
Tap water is safe.
SPF always — even on cloudy days.
Tell someone if you’re going hiking or surfing alone.
Cape Town’s sun + wind combo is real — hydrate!
Experience it All — Together
If reading this makes your heart ache a little…
maybe it’s time to stop scrolling and start living it.
Join The Now Now Surf & Yoga Retreat —
7 days of surf, yoga, sisterhood, and adventure in Kommetjie, Cape Town.
Perfect for solo travellers who want connection without the overwhelm.