Hout Bay

About 25-minutes’ drive from Cape Town Central, this once-quiet fishing village on the Atlantic coast is the gateway to Chapman’s Peak Drive. Those basing themselves here will want a car to get around, but proximity to various Atlantic beaches (Hout Bay Beach itself is not great), the Constantiawine estates, the peninsula, and the city—plus relatively good-value accommodations—are the draw. The drive, which winds its way down to Nordhoek, is a must, and Hout Bay's quay-side fish-and-chips right at the farthest point of the harbor, and its all-weekend market are good value. If you're getting hungry, head to Snoekies (pronounced like cookies) right on the water, at the southern end of the little harbor. Snoek is a barracudalike fish that is eaten smoked when given its traditional Malay treatment. Try the more touristy Mariners Wharf if the former is full. Friday to Sunday sees the bustling Hout Bay market, a weekly social event for locals by night where you will also get all your original gifts for home. You'll also find craft beers, music, and good food. The market is open all day on weekends, but it gets very full.