With this warm weather, we can’t wait to dip our toes in the water and see paw prints in the sand. But, with some restrictions in place, it might be hard to find a watering hole for you and your four-legged friends. We list some of our favourite dog-friendly beaches and lakes in Cape Town, to help you and your pup beat the heat.

Bloubergstrand Beach

A fantastic beach to swim at or go for a walk. If your dog gets thirsty, there are water bowls along the promenade, as well as disposal bins if your pup makes a poo. This area can also get pretty windy, so check the weather forecast ahead of time. Blouberg is a popular spot for walkers and there’s usually high traffic – be on the look-out and keep your dog on a leash.

Dog policy: Keep on leash; dogs allowed before 09h00 and after 18h00
Location: Bloubergstrand Beach, Bloubergstrand

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Camps Bay Beach

Camps Bay is a local favourite for swimmers, surfers and doggie-walkers alike. Also, a fantastic spot to catch the sunrise if you and your dog are early birds. If Bruno or Rex permits, set up camp, take a flask of coffee with you or do some stretches on the beach before the day begins.

Dog policy: Dogs can run freely before 09h00 and after 18h00. *Times may change during summer and winter.
Location: Camps Bay

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Clifton 1st Beach

Clifton has four different beaches, make sure that you visit the right one, as not all of them are dog-friendly. This beach gets water straight from the Antarctic, and the water can get bitterly cold, don’t let the surfers fool you. Clifton 1st is a great beach if you want to let your dog run around a little, but always keep an eye on them and stay within close proximity.

Dog policy: Dogs can run
Location: Clifton 1st, Atlantic Seaboard

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Graaf’s Tidal Pool

If you don’t enjoy swimming in ocean waters, Graaf’s Tidal Pool is a great spot to catch a dip after a leisurely walk with your paw pal.

Dog policy: Leash needed
Location: Graaf’s Pool, South, Atlantic Way, Ocean View

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Llandudno Beach

Llandudno Beach may be a bit distant for most folk, unless you live in that neck of the woods, but what better excuse to take a road trip with your pooch? This dog-friendly beach has stellar mountain views, making it perfect for enjoying an easy-breezy beach day.

Dog policy: Keep on leash; dogs allowed before 09h00 and after 18h00
Location: Llandudno Beach, Hout Bay, Cape Peninsula

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Melkbosstrand Beach

Melkbosstrand is usually crowded with doggie walkers. We recommend checking the weather before you hit the beach, as it can become rather windy. If you do intend on swimming, make sure to check the tide – high tides also mean sludgy sand, which  can be unpleasant to walk on. Should you want to grab a coffee or beer after your walk, there are a couple of dog-friendly places that will welcome you and your pooch.

Dog policy: Keep your pup on a leash
Location: Melkbosstrand, Cape Town

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Newlands Forest

If you prefer water streams over beaches, this Table Mountain National Park is ideal. Newlands Forest is popular among dog owners, it’s also a great trail to enjoy with the family. Surrounded by beautiful nature, water streams and tall trees, your dog will love this trail.

Dog policy: Dogs can roam, but be mindful of other hikers.
Location: Newlands Forest, Newlands

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Sea Point Promenade

The prom is undoubtedly one of the most popular dog-friendly walking areas in Cape Town. If your pooch makes a dookie, they have doggie bags attached to poles along the promenade, as well as disposal bins. If you’re walking along the prom, it’s best to keep your dog on a leash. However, there are some empty fields near the lighthouse if you want to take your dog off the leash. Always consider the safety of kids, people and other dogs. Should you get hungry after your walk, there are some dog-friendly restaurants along the Atlantic Seaboard that are worth visiting.

Dog policy: Keep on leash.
Location: Mouille Point, Sea Point

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Silvermine Nature Reserve

If you’re looking to take a scenic hike with breathtaking views and beautiful flora and fauna, this part of the Table Mountain National Park is just the spot. Silvermine has some moderate-intensity hiking routes like Elephant’s Eye (if you have good knees) or you could walk along the paved tracks by the lake, which the kids will enjoy. If you do plan to swim, ensure that both you and your dog are strong swimmers, as the lake is rather deep. Also, the lake water can get a little bit cold, then again, when has that ever stopped a good boy or girl?

Dog policy: Dogs can roam
Location: Silvermine Nature Reserve, Table Mountain National Park, Cape Peninsula

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Sunset Beach

Stunning views with a backdrop of Table Mountain, Sunset Beach, is one of our favourite dog-friendly beaches in Cape Town. Perfect for if you want to take a light stroll or brisk walk along the shoreline. Your dogs will love running around in the sand dunes before lugging sand into your car. Parking is often limited and pretty tight, as the entrance to this beach is located in a residential area. You might have to circle the area a couple of times or ‘wait it out’ before landing a spot. If you are taking a long walk along the route of Dolphin Beach to Sunset, it’s always safer to go during daylight hours.

Dog policy: Dogs can roam, but be mindful of others.
Location: Sunset Beach, Milnerton

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Other dog-friendly beaches in CPT:

• Capricorn
• Clifton 4th
• Milnerton Lagoon
• Milton tidal pool
• Froggy Pond
• Long Beach, Simon’s Town
• Noordhoek Beach
• Three Anchor Bay

Essential Tips for Dog Owners:

• ‘Don’t worry, they’re friendly’ shouldn’t be a cautionary tale. If you know your dog doesn’t interact well with other pets, keep them on a leash.
• Although some of these spots don’t require your dog to be on a leash, dog owners should always keep their dogs nearby. If you want to let your dog off their leash, choose a secluded spot where there aren’t bystanders.
• Make sure to bring treats along, it’s a useful way to help call your dog if they wander off.
• No one likes stepping in doo-doo. Respect your surroundings and always clean up after your dog. If you have a dog walker, make sure they are aware of your expectations.
• Dogs are full of energy and they need water. Ensure your dog keeps hydrated and doesn’t try drinking beach or lake water, as it might make them sick.

*As much as our furry babies are friendly with us, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be mindful of kids and neighbouring people. Keep your dog on a leash if they are testy.

Want to grab a bite with your pooch? Try these Dog-friendly Restaurants in Cape Town.