False Bay, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for False Bay, South Africa? If you're planning to go to False Bay, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to False Bay, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in False Bay, South Africa, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for False Bay, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in False Bay, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for False Bay, South Africa by month

January

If you go to False Bay in January, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain once in a while. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

February

February in False Bay dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to get the correct type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

March

March in this region is warm. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

April

April for False Bay is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you choose the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

June

If you are traveling to False Bay in June, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you are traveling to False Bay in July, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

August

If you go to False Bay in August, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

September is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

October

October here is mild. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you are traveling to False Bay in November, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you get the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

December

December for False Bay is balmy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in False Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in False Bay, South Africa

False Bay is one of South Africa's most breathtaking coastal regions, known for its serene beaches, quaint towns, and stunning natural beauty. This stunning region is located on the Cape Peninsula and is easily accessible from Cape Town. With its endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences and breathtaking views, it's no wonder that False Bay is a top tourist destination in South Africa. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in False Bay that you cannot afford to miss.

1) Cape Point

Cape Point is undoubtedly False Bay's most visited attraction. It is a nature reserve and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. At the tip of the Cape Peninsula, this attraction offers stunning views of the ocean and the coastline. The most popular hiking trail in Cape Point is the Cape of Good Hope trail, which takes hikers through stunning fynbos landscapes and along cliff-top paths. The reserve also offers a funicular ride to the top for those who don't feel like hiking. Here you'll find the famous lighthouse, souvenir shops, and restaurants.

2) Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Boulders Beach in False Bay is home to a colony of rare African penguins. These adorable creatures are a big attraction for tourists, who come to visit the protected breeding area. Visitors can observe the penguins in their natural habitat and enjoy the beautiful beach surrounded by boulders that gives the name of the beach. There's a boardwalk that takes visitors to observation points where they can watch these fascinating creatures as they nest in burrows.

3) Kalk Bay

Kalk Bay is a quaint and picturesque seaside town situated on the east coast of the Cape Peninsula. A bustling fishing harbor adds to the town's charm as visitors can buy fresh fish directly from the boats. There are also many boutique shops, galleries, and numerous restaurants offering fresh seafood. The town also has beautiful beaches where you can soak up the sun, swim, or surf.

4) Simon's Town

Simon's Town is another quaint town in False Bay. The town is steeped in history and offers visitors several museums and historical landmarks to visit. The South African Naval Museum, the Simon's Town Museum, and the toy museum are some of the most popular attractions. The town's beautiful Victorian architecture also adds to the charm of Simon's Town, making it an ideal spot for a stroll and some fine dining.

5) Muizenberg

Muizenberg is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions and beautiful white sandy beaches. Surfers from around the world come here to ride the waves. The town is also home to the historic Muizenberg Pavilion, which is one of the oldest surviving seawater swimming pools in the country.

In conclusion, False Bay is a scenic coastal region that has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, numerous cultural and historical landmarks, fishing villages, and beautiful beaches, this region is perfect for a family holiday or a romantic getaway. If you are planning a trip to Cape Town, then False Bay must be on your list of places to visit.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: South Pelion, Greece, Bosanska Krajina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ciudad Real, Spain, Chikuma, Japan, Schiedam, Netherlands, Sturbridge, Massachusetts, United States of America, Cairo, New York, United States of America, Llanelli, Wales, United Kingdom, Jaunpur, India, Kamnik, Slovenia, and Königslutter, Germany.