Why this road
The fastest way to Noordhoek goes over the mountain, inland. This route stays by the ocean the whole time: first the beaches of Camps Bay below the Twelve Apostles mountain range, then the curves above Llandudno, the harbour of Hout Bay and finally the toll road along the face of Chapman's Peak, with the sea dropping away below and the sun setting over the water.
The route
- ACape Town
Leave the city past Sea Point or over Kloof Nek, and head for the Atlantic coast.
- 1Camps Bay
Palm-lined beach below the Twelve Apostles mountain range. A good place for a drink before the drive.
- 2Llandudno
The road winds high above a small cove with granite boulders and one of the prettiest beaches on the peninsula.
- 3Hout Bay
Fishing harbour and wide beach. The toll plaza of Chapman's Peak Drive is at the southern end of town.
- 4Chapman's Peak lookout
The best viewpoint, with Hout Bay and the Sentinel behind you and the open Atlantic ahead.
- BNoordhoek
The road comes down to Long Beach, eight kilometres of sand. From here you can carry on towards Cape Point.
Stops worth it
Twenty minutes on the promenade, or longer for an early dinner with a view.
Stop at the main lookout for the view back over Hout Bay. Arrive at least half an hour before sunset.
Light and the best time
Drive it in the late afternoon. Heading south, the Atlantic is on your right, and the low sun from the west lights the cliffs and turns the sea gold. Time it so you are on Chapman's Peak in the last hour before sunset. In the Cape summer the sun sets late, around 7:30 to 8 pm, so leave Cape Town around 5:30. Watch out for the glare on the westward curves.
October to April is the best time: dry, warm and long days, ideal for the European winter. The strong south-easter wind, the Cape Doctor, often blows in summer, which can make a convertible unpleasant. May to August is winter, with rain and storms. The road closes in heavy rain, high winds and when there is rockfall or fire risk, so check the current status on the operator's website before you go.
By vehicle
Perfect for this road, sea on one side and cliffs on the other. Bring a jacket, it cools down quickly after sunset.
A short, beautiful ride with many curves. Watch for cyclists, it is a popular road for them.
Easy driving on a good road. Drive slowly on the curves, many people stop suddenly to take photos.
Good to know
Chapman's Peak Drive is a toll road, current prices on the operator's website. South Africa drives on the left. Vehicles wider than 2.1 m, heavy vehicles and buses are restricted in one or both directions, so large motorhomes should check the operator's rules first. The road can close at short notice because of rockfall, wind or fire. Do not leave valuables visible in the car at lookouts and beaches, and stay at busy viewpoints after dark. Fuel is easy to find in Cape Town and Hout Bay.
Route checked against OpenStreetMap on 2 November 2026. Roads, closures and rules change: always check before you go and follow local signs.
Questions
Does Chapman's Peak Drive cost a toll?
Yes, you pay at the toll plaza near Hout Bay. Current prices are on the operator's website.
Is Chapman's Peak Drive open today?
Usually, but it closes in heavy rain, strong winds or fire danger. Check the operator's website or social media before you go.
How long does the drive take?
From Cape Town to Noordhoek about an hour without stops. With Camps Bay and the lookout, plan two to three hours.
Is it safe to drive Chapman's Peak at sunset?
Yes, it is a popular sunset drive. Park at the busy lookouts, keep valuables out of sight and do not linger at empty spots after dark.