Cape Town attraction in Kalk Bay

Discover Kalk Bay near Cape Town

The quirky seaside village of Kalk Bay has been named one of the 12 Coolest Neighbourhoods Around The World by Forbes magazine in July 2018. It runs along a railway line with False Bay coastline on one side, and the mountain on the other.

Where is Kalk Bay?

Kalk Bay to Cape Town

Kalk Bay (Afrikaans: Kalkbaai) is about 35 minutes drive from Cape Town and close to Simon's Town and Boulders Beach. Kalk Bay is a small fishing village on the coast of False Bay, South Africa and is now a suburb of greater Cape Town. It lies between the ocean and sharply rising mountainous heights that are buttressed by crags of grey Table Mountain Sandstone. 

Explore Kalk Bay's top attractions 

What is Kalk Bay known for?

Along Kalk Bay's main road lies a host of treasure troves, from an eclectic mix of historic buildings, cobbled streets, bohemian bric-a-brac shops, vintage bookstores, quaint cafés, and restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many iconic fish and chips resturants in Kalk Bay Harbour. 

The best things to do in Kalk Bay

Kalk Bay harbour is not just a bustling landmark, but it has a rich history, too. Its famous red-and-white-striped lighthouse is situated at the tip of the bustling pier.

Walking along the pier at Kalk Bay harbour, you'll probably see snoek fish drying on a line, seals and seagulls waiting for a titbit of fresh fish, colourful fishing boats, and fisherman's rods lined up along the pier.

When To Go to Kalk Bay

Kalk Bay can be visited all year round.

What does Kalk Bay mean?

The name Kalk Bay comes from the Dutch term for chalk as the small village community of lime-burners once mined the nearby deposits of limestone. In 1795 the Dutch located a small military outpost here, and after 1806 it began to flourish as a fishing village and whaling station. During the 1860s it became popular as seaside resort.

On Tour Highlights:

• Walk along the harbour pier
• See the lighthouse at Kalk Bay Harbour
• Watch out for seals that are permanent residents 
• Take in the sea breeze and eclectic shops of Kalk Bay's Main Road
• Enjoy the best fish and chips at a seaside restaurant in Kalk Bay