Sandy Bay: Cape Town’s Stunning Gay Nude Beach (2026)
Wild, remote, and jaw-droppingly beautiful, Sandy Bay is Cape Town’s most famous gay nude beach — and one of our personal favorites anywhere in the world. Tucked between mountains and sea just south of the city, this rugged stretch of sand delivers raw natural beauty, a young and attractive crowd, and a sense of adventure that makes the journey part of the magic.
Below is your complete guide to Sandy Bay — how to get here, where to hike, how to find the gay section, what the vibe is like, when to go, and where to stay in Cape Town.
Below is your complete guide to Sandy Bay — how to get here, where to hike, how to find the gay section, what the vibe is like, when to go, and where to stay in Cape Town.
What Makes Sandy Bay So Special?
Sandy Bay isn’t a casual “pop-by” beach — and that’s exactly why it’s so good.
What makes it stand out:
- Remote, untouched coastline with mountain-to-sea views
- Clothing-optional and long associated with gay visitors
- Friendly, youthful, and very attractive crowd
- Perfect size — not overwhelming, not too small
- Pet-friendly (yes, dogs join the fun)
It reminds us of other iconic gay nude beaches like Playa del Muerto in Sitges or Boy Beach in Provincetown — beaches you earn, and therefore attract people who really want to be there.
CAPE TOWN TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to Cape Town? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our travels and helping us create more content like this!
Planning your trip to Cape Town? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
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🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our travels and helping us create more content like this!
How to Get to Sandy Bay
Sandy Bay is located about 9 miles (14 km) from Cape Town’s city center.
By Uber or Taxi
- 25–30 minutes from downtown or De Waterkant
- Costs around $10 USD (using Uber)
- Ask to be dropped near Sandy Bay parking area (drivers know it)
The Hike Down (Important!)
From the parking/drop-off point:
- 20–25 minute hike down to the beach
- Sandy, uneven trail — wear proper shoes
- It’s a workout (hello, glutes), but absolutely worth it
🌟 Pro tip – Bring everything in a backpack to keep hands free — the trail requires balance and the climb back up is real.
How to Find the Gay Section
Sandy Bay is clothing-optional overall, but the gay crowd tends to gather:
- Farther from the entrance
- Closer to the rocky end of the beach
- Near the trails behind the rocks
That’s where you’ll find:
- The most social energy
- Groups of guys sunning, chatting, and moving between spots
- Discreet trails behind the beach that get busier later in the afternoon
If you walk toward the rocks, you’re going in the right direction.
What's the Vibe?
Sandy Bay hits a perfect balance:
- Social but very chill
- Sexy without being chaotic
- Quiet enough to relax, lively enough to flirt
The crowd skews younger, friendly, and very easygoing. Some guys stay near the water, others tuck into sheltered spots by the rocks, and plenty migrate inland as the afternoon unfolds.
🌟 Pro tip – We share behind-the-scenes photos and videos as well as the spicier details from Sandy Bay (and all our nudist travels) over on Patreon.
Amenities (or Lack Thereof)
This is a fully natural beach.
You will NOT find:
- Restaurants or bars
- Sun loungers or umbrellas
- Bathrooms or showers
- Vendors of any kind
Bring Everything You Need
- Plenty of water
- Snacks or lunch
- Sunscreen
- Towel or beach blanket
- Umbrella (limited natural shade)
- Proper shoes for the hike
Being prepared is the key to loving Sandy Bay.
When to Go
Sandy Bay is best in summer.
- Best season: November – March (Cape Town summer)
- Peak months: December – February
- Weekends: Busiest, most social
- Weekdays: Quieter, still plenty of action
Late afternoon is especially beautiful, with golden light rolling across the sand and mountains.
🌟 Pro tip – Save some energy for the uphill hike back — it’s the only downside of an otherwise perfect beach day.
Where to Stay in Cape Town
Gorgeous George – Best Design-Forward Boutique Hotel
⭐ Best for: Design lovers, rooftop vibes & modern luxury
📍 Location: Cape Town City Center
Why We Love It:
- One of the most stylish hotels in the city — bold, artsy, and photo-ready
- Rooftop pool and bar with serious Cape Town energy
- Easy Uber access to De Waterkant and Sandy Bay
- Boutique feel that’s trendier than traditional luxury hotels
Gorgeous George nails the modern Cape Town aesthetic — edgy, elevated, and quietly sexy. The rooftop scene is a highlight, especially at sunset, and the central location makes it easy to blend beach days, city exploring, and nightlife without overthinking logistics.
Final Thoughts
Sandy Bay is everything we look for in a gay nude beach — remote, stunning, social, and unforgettable. The hike filters the crowd, the scenery delivers nonstop drama, and the vibe feels effortlessly free in a way that few places still manage.
If you’re visiting Cape Town and traveling in warm weather, this beach is an absolute must.
🌟 Pro tip – Planning a trip to Cape Town? From the best LGBTQ+ hotels to must-visit attractions, dining, and travel tips, find it all in our Gay Travel Guide to Cape Town.
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