Perched between the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, Ocean View House in Camps Bay is more than just a luxury retreat in the Mother City; it’s also the perfect launchpad for exploring Cape Town’s surrounding areas.

With sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean, serene gardens and a prime location within walking distance of the trendy Camps Bay strip, we’re primed to offer our guests a tranquil yet central base for adventure.

Cape Town’s surroundings are diverse and filled with unforgettable experiences, many of which are reachable and doable in the span of a day. Whether you’re in search of coastal cliffs, lush vineyards, or cultural hubs, here are five highly recommended day trips from Cape Town that reveal different facets of our extraordinary city.

Approximately 60 km from Ocean View House | +- 1 hr 20 min driving time

Follow one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads (Chapman’s Peak Drive) from Camps Bay to Cape Point – the southeastern most point of the Cape Peninsula. The point itself is a spectacular rocky outcrop with towering cliffs that drop into the ocean and is found on a nature reserve that boasts antelope, ostriches, zebras and other small mammals and reptiles.

At Cape Point, you can visit the famous lighthouse, explore rugged walking trails and learn about the point’s significance to old maritime explorers. (Back when The Cape of Good Hope was still known as The Cape of Storms!)

You might also like to stop at Boulders Beach to visit the resident African penguin colony on your way back to Ocean View House; one of two in the Western Cape, and a wonderful activity to do with children.

We love this day trip because it truly gives you the sense that you’re at the tip of Africa – surrounded by the ocean.

Don’t forget to pack your camera!

Approximately 18 km from Ocean View House | +- 25 min driving time

Constantia is Cape Town’s closest and most historic winelands region. Just a short drive from Ocean View House, this valley is home to elegant estates like Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia and Constantia Glen, among others, where you can sip world-class wines surrounded by vineyard-draped hills. Expect refined tasting rooms, top-tier restaurants, and peaceful walking trails.

Constantia’s proximity makes it perfect for a relaxed half- or full-day outing. For guests who want to delve deeper into the Cape’s wine heritage, Stellenbosch is a worthy addition, offering a blend of historic charm, acclaimed wineries, and scenic beauty. It’s slightly further out (60 km), but well worth the travelling time.

Approximately 120 km from Ocean View House | 1 hr 30 min driving time

If you’re visiting the Mother City in spring (August to October), don’t miss the West Coast’s wildflower spectacle – a seasonal wonder where entire landscapes are carpeted in pans of vivid blooms. There are only a few places in the world where this occurs, and you’ve happily stumbled into the midst of one of them!

The West Coast National Park, especially the Postberg section, is a top spot for this natural display, offering driving routes and walking trails through fields of daisies, vygies, and other indigenous flora.

Couple your day out with a seafood lunch at one of the nearby fishing towns. Paternoster is always a fantastic option, as is Langebaan, which is on your route back to the city.

Approximately 7 km from Ocean View House | 15 min driving time

While Camps Bay offers coastal glamour, the heart of Cape Town is bursting with culture, history, and cosmopolitan flair. (Not to mention the food! Our city continually ranks among the top foodie destinations in the world.)

Spend a day wandering through Company’s Garden, a leafy garden originally planted by the Dutch East India Company that is today home to squirrels, fountains, and heritage buildings. Visit the Iziko South African Museum and Planetarium or delve into our country’s layered past at the District Six Museum.

Cape Town’s city centre is also a hub for dining and shopping—from artisanal coffee spots on Bree Street to the bustling stalls at Greenmarket Square. As far as day trips from Cape Town go, this one is perfect for travellers seeking culture, convenience, and variety.

Other popular areas to frequent are the Seapoint Promenade and the colourful Bo-Kaap.

Approximately 12 km from Ocean View House | 20 min driving time

This half-day trip offers maximum reward with minimal travel time. Drive along the iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive from Camps Bay to Hout Bay, a fishing village with a vibrant harbour and scenic beach. Here you can enjoy freshly caught seafood, browse the local Hout Bay Market (check opening times), or hop on a boat to Duiker Island to see Cape fur seals in their natural habitat.

For active travellers, a hike up Chapman’s Peak or a kayak tour along the coast offers stunning perspectives of the area. With its laid-back atmosphere and dramatic coastal scenery, Hout Bay is an effortless and rewarding day out!

Approximately 120 km from Ocean View House | 2 hr driving time

If you’re visiting between June and November, a day trip to Hermanus is well worth the journey. Why? To see the whales, of course! This coastal town is famous for offering some of the best land-based whale watching in the world, particularly of Southern Right whales who come to calve in its sheltered bays.

Stroll along the Cliff Path, enjoy a gourmet lunch with ocean views, and, if you’re lucky, spot these gentle giants breaching just offshore.

• Ocean View House’s front desk team is happy to assist with transport, tour bookings, and local recommendations.
• For longer trips, consider early departures to make the most of the day.
• Pack layers: Cape Town’s weather can change quickly, especially along the coast.
• Booking in advance is recommended for wine tastings and seasonal activities like whale-watching or flower-viewing.

After a full day of exploring Cape Town’s surrounding areas, there’s no better place to return to than Ocean View House.

Unwind on your private balcony with views over the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, take a dip in the pool set among lush gardens or simply relax with a sundowner as the sky turns golden over the bay.

Browse our stay options and book your luxury escape by emailing info@oceanview-house.com. Alternatively, make use of our seamless online booking platform to secure your dates.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our serene escape in the Mother City!