Kammabaai Beach

A Local's Favourite Beach Escape

Kammabaai Beach offers a more intimate alternative to the busier Grotto Beach. Flanked by cliffs on both sides, this compact beach creates a cozy atmosphere that locals treasure. The beach is essentially divided into two smaller bays with interesting rock formations in between that children love exploring.

Swimming and Surfing

The water here is typically calmer than at other beaches in the area, making it ideal for families. It's relatively shallow near the shore for wading, with deeper sections for proper swimming. Safety tip: Be extremely cautious of the strong rip current on the right side of the beach near the rocks. While surfers use this current to paddle out, swimmers should avoid this area completely.

During peak holiday periods, lifeguards are on duty, but they're not present year-round, so plan accordingly.

Beach Features

• A large boulder in the water creates a perfect jump spot at high tide
• Rocky outcrops provide shade and exploration opportunities
• Coffee cart and occasional ice cream vendor in the parking area
• Public toilets and braai (barbecue) facilities on the grassy area
• Dog-friendly atmosphere, making it popular with pet owners

Timing Your Visit

Kammabaai gets extremely busy during the December-January holiday season. Arrive early (before 9am) to secure parking during peak times. For a more relaxed experience, visit during the week or outside school holidays when you'll often have sections of the beach almost to yourself.

Local Knowledge

The beach connects to the coastal cliff path that runs in both directions - you can walk toward Voêlklip Beach (just 2 minutes away) in one direction or toward the New Harbour in the other. Historically, the beach was known as "Nanny Beach" or "Meidenbaai" as it was where household staff would bring children due to its contained size, making it easier to supervise them.

In whale season (June-November), the beach offers excellent viewing opportunities from both the shore and elevated sections of the cliff path.