Our guide to the best beaches near Somerset West covers the obvious choices, Strand, Bikini Beach and Gordon's Bay Main Beach, and those are still where we'd send most guests for a swim. This guide is for the stretch beyond them: the wilder, quieter coastline along Clarence Drive toward Betty's Bay, where Kogel Bay and the sea cave at Dappat se Gat sit just off the road, easy to miss and well worth the stop.
The coast along Clarence Drive.
Clarence Drive: the route there
Clarence Drive (the R44) between Gordon's Bay and Betty's Bay is one of the most scenic coast roads in the Cape, with the Hottentots Holland mountains rising sharply on one side, False Bay on the other, and regular safe pull-offs for photos. It's also part of the Whale Route, so keep an eye on the water during whale season (June to November). Kogel Bay and Dappat se Gat are both reached directly off this road, roughly 15 to 20 minutes past Gordon's Bay.
Kogel Bay Beach
Kogel Bay is a wide, dramatic beach where the mountains drop almost straight into the ocean. It's one of the most photographed stretches on this road, and a well-known surf spot thanks to its consistent swell. It doesn't carry Blue Flag status like Bikini Beach, and you shouldn't count on lifeguards being on duty, so it's a beach to admire and photograph rather than one to swim at, particularly with children.
Kogel Bay.
Dappat se Gat
A little further along, a small gravel pull-off and short sandy path lead down to Dappat se Gat, a striking sea cave carved into the cliffside, with water running through shades of turquoise and deep blue below jagged rock formations. At low tide you can walk into the cave itself; it's one of the most photographed, if lesser-known, spots on this whole coastline. There are no facilities here at all, so bring your own water and snacks, and check tide times before you go if you want to see the cave interior rather than just the cove from above.
Sunset at Dappat se Gat. Photo: Panorama Paul via Flickr.
Safety: why this isn't a swimming beach
Unlike Strand or Bikini Beach, this stretch is known locally for dangerous rip currents, even on calm-looking days, and lifeguards can't be relied on. Treat Kogel Bay and Dappat se Gat as a scenic stop, a surf spot for experienced surfers, and a cave to explore at low tide, not somewhere to swim, especially with children. If you want a swim after the drive, head back to the lifeguarded beaches at Gordon's Bay and Strand in our beaches guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to swim at Kogel Bay or Dappat se Gat?
We wouldn't recommend it. The area is known for dangerous rip currents and lifeguards can't be relied on. These are spots for sightseeing, photography and, for experienced surfers, the swell at Kogel Bay, rather than swimming.
How do I find Dappat se Gat?
Drive Clarence Drive (the R44) past Gordon's Bay toward Betty's Bay. Look for a small gravel pull-off with a short sandy path down to the beach. It isn't signposted, so it's easy to miss if you're not watching for it.
Is this a good spot for kids?
Not really, given the rip currents and rugged terrain. For a family-friendly beach day, our main beaches guide covers safer, lifeguarded options closer to Somerset West.
What's the best time to visit?
Low tide if you want to explore the Dappat se Gat cave interior, and morning light for photography. It's also worth combining with whale watching if you're visiting between June and November.