Introduction
Picture this: You’re sipping a glass of soft South African wine, your feet sinking into the golden sand, with Table Mountain in the background. It sounds like a dream, right? But here’s the best part—you don’t have to spend a fortune to make this dream come true. Cape Town is one of those special places where you can have it all: beautiful beaches, fascinating culture, and affordable housing.
I remember my first trip to Cape Town. With my budget prohibiting me from making the trip, I was quietly searching for a hotel by the sea that wouldn’t keep me up all weekend. You’ll be surprised—I found it! And in this article, I’ll tell you how I did it.
Chapter 1: What to Look for in a Budget Hotel Near the Beach
Let’s be honest—when you’re traveling on a budget, you’re not going to be able to book any hotel you like. Trust me, I’ve done that before (someone who says “beach view” when it’s actually a view of a garbage dump). Here’s what you should look for:
- Location, Location, Location: You want to be close to the action, but not too expensive. Camps Bay and Clifton are great, but if you’re willing to stay a little further afield, like Muizenberg or Bloubergstrand, you’ll save money.
- Essentials: Free Wi-Fi? Yes, please. Breakfast included? Better yet. Pool? That’s awesome.
- Safety First: Cape Town is awesome, but like any big city, it has its own unique circumstances. Make sure your hotel is in a safe location, especially if you’re traveling alone.
- Research Never Ends: I always try TripAdvisor or Booking.com. If someone says it’s written on a wall, believe them.
Chapter 2: The 5 Best Cheap Hotels Near Cape Town’s Beaches
Good news coming. Here are my top picks for cheap accommodation near Cape Town’s beaches:
1. Beach House Hotel
- Location: Just a 5-minute walk from Camps Bay Beach.
- Price: Around $60 per night (really!).
- What’s Inside: Free breakfast, a beautiful pool, and amazing mountain views.
- Why I Loved It: I stayed here on the last day of my trip, and the staff were so friendly that they were like family. Plus, the sun sets differently from the horizon. It’s amazing.
2. Surfside Backpackers
- Location: In Muizenberg, perfect for water sports or study.
- Prices: As low as $25 for a dorm room or $50 for a private room.
- What’s Inside: Free fishing gear, a kitchen for everyone, and a cool atmosphere.
- Why It’s Great: This is where I met the coolest backpackers, and the pool is just around the corner.
3. Atlanticview Cape Town Boutique Hotel
- Location: On the Atlantic Ocean in Green Point.
- Price: About $80 per night (surprising for the view).
- Features: A rooftop pool, a paid parking lot, and free parking at the V&A Waterfront.
- Why It’s Good: It’s a little more expensive than others, but the view is worth every penny you spend.
4. Ocean View House
- Location: In the heart of Bloubergstrand.
- Price: About $70 per night.
- Features: Free Wi-Fi, a garden, and—you guessed it—ocean views.
- Why I Recommend It: It’s clean, quiet, and perfect for couples or solo travelers.
5. The Backpack
- Location: Just a short drive from Clifton and Camps Bay.
- Prices: Beds start at $20, private rooms start at $60.
- What’s Inside: A rooftop bar, free walking tours, and a friendly atmosphere.
- Why It’s Great: I stayed here on my first day in Cape Town, and it’s where I met my now-traveling friend, Sarah.
Chapter 3: Tips for Booking Cheap Hotels
It’s not just cheap accommodations that are cheap—it’s also about planning. Here are some tips I’ve tried and found:
- Note in Advance: I learned this the hard way when I booked last time—I would have paid double.
- Go Off-peak: Cape Town is quieter (and cheaper) from May to September.
- Use Hotel Reviews: I used Booking.com and Airbnb to find deals.
- Buy on the Go: Sometimes, emailing a hotel can get you a discount.
Chapter 4: Exploring Cape Town’s Beaches Without the Cost
Cape Town’s beaches are the star attraction, and the best part is that many of them are free! Here’s how to enjoy them:
- Camps Bay: Great for people-watching and sunset cocktails.
- Muizenberg: A great place for those learning to surf.
- Bloubergstrand: The best place for taking pictures of the famous Table Mountain.
Tips: Grab a bite to eat and enjoy it on the beach. Admittedly, it’s cheaper (and more romantic) than eating out.
Chapter 5: Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the cheapest time to visit Cape Town?
Winter (May to September) is your best bet for the cheapest. - Are these hotels good for solo travelers?
Absolutely! Just be careful, stay warm. - Can I walk to the beach from these hotels?
Many are within walking distance, but some may require a short drive or train ride.
Conclusion
Cape Town doesn’t have to be a destination for the rich. With a bit of education (and a bit of a budget), you can enjoy its beautiful beaches without breaking the bank. What’s in store for you? Start packing, book a hotel, and be sure to have the trip of a lifetime.
And hey, if you’re at The Beach House Hotel, tell them I sent you. They might not remember me, but it’s worth a try, right?

I’m Wendy, I live abroad for about 3 years and I have done two long term travels before I relocated. If you want to lead an active life while traveling or living abroad, you came to the right place! On my blog you find practical articles on what it is like to live abroad and tips on awesome travel destinations.