When it comes to photo locations in Cape Town, let’s be honest - this city is completely showing off. From dramatic mountains and endless beaches to colorful streets and romantic vineyards, Cape Town has a backdrop for every kind of session. Engagements, weddings, families, portraits, or just because-you-can photos - whatever the occasion, Cape Town is basically begging to be photographed. I’ve been lucky enough to shoot in some of the city’s most iconic (and some lesser-known) spots, and I’ve rounded up my absolute favorites. These are my top 10 photo session locations in Cape Town - tried, tested, and guaranteed to make your photos as epic as the memories you’re making.
Wedding tips
September 12, 2025
1. View of Table Mountain on Signal Hill
If you want the best angle of Table Mountain without hiking a single step, Signal Hill is where it’s at. From up here, you get sweeping views of the city below, the ocean stretching into the distance, and of course, Table Mountain showing off in all its glory.
📍 Signal Hill Parking Lot: Signal Hill Rd, Cape Town, 8001
💡 Pro tip: Head there at golden hour. The light hits Table Mountain just right, and the city starts to glow. It’s one of the most iconic — and easy-to-reach — photo locations in Cape Town.
2. Camps Bay Beach
If you’re dreaming of soft sand, turquoise waves, and mountains rising right out of the ocean, Camps Bay Beach is your spot. It’s one of the most popular photo locations in Cape Town, and for good reason: it’s basically a movie set, but better, because it’s real.
The Twelve Apostles mountain range behind you makes this spot extra dramatic, while the ocean gives it that laid-back, romantic feel. At golden hour, the sky lights up in pinks and purples that make your photos look like they belong in a gallery.
📍 Camps Bay Beach: Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005
💡 Pro tip: It gets busy in summer. Sunrise sessions here are magic (and way quieter).
3. V&A Waterfront
City lovers, this one’s for you. The V&A Waterfront mixes modern energy with Cape Town charm. You’ve got the harbor, the ferris wheel, quirky little corners, and even Table Mountain photobombing in the background.
It’s a lively spot, perfect for couples who want an urban edge to their photos. Plus, it’s one of the few places where we can sneak in some candid shots of you grabbing coffee, ice cream, or just strolling the boardwalk. Bonus: snacks are always nearby.
📍 V&A Waterfront: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001
💡 Pro tip: There’s always something happening here. Choose quieter weekdays or embrace the lively atmosphere.
4. Newlands Forest
Tucked at the base of Table Mountain, Newlands Forest is a dreamy spot for anyone who loves tall trees, dappled light, and a little adventure. It feels calm, secluded, and totally magical - perfect for couples who want a natural backdrop or families who need space for kids to run around.
The forest gives you those moody, intimate vibes that look incredible in photos, especially in the late afternoon when the light filters through the trees. It’s one of those photo locations in Cape Town that feels a little hidden, even though it’s right in the city.
📍 Newlands Forest Parking Lot: Union Ave, Newlands, Cape Town, 7700
💡 Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes - some of the best spots are a short walk into the trees.
5. Cape Town City Bowl
If you love the buzz of the city, the Cape Town City Bowl is packed with personality. Think cool coffee shops, quirky street corners, murals, and that urban energy that makes photos feel alive. With Table Mountain towering in the background, you get the perfect mix of city vibes and natural beauty.
It’s ideal for couples who want something a little different from the usual beach or mountain shots, or for branding sessions where you want your photos to feel modern and stylish. From Bree Street to hidden alleyways, every corner has its own charm.
📍 Cape Town City Bowl: Loop St, Bree St & Longmarket St, Cape Town, 8001
💡 Pro tip: Sunrise sessions here are magic — quiet streets, soft light, and the city slowly waking up around you.
6. Noordhoek Beach
This is one of the longest beaches in Cape Town, and it feels absolutely endless. The wide-open space, the mountains in the distance, and the soft light at sunset make it one of the dreamiest photo locations in Cape Town.
It’s perfect for couples and families who love movement - running barefoot through the waves, spinning in the sand, or just strolling with the ocean breeze. Trust me, it always feels like a scene from a movie.
📍 Noordhoek Beach Parking: Beach Rd, Noordhoek, Cape Town, 7979
💡 Pro tip: Bring comfy shoes — it’s a bit of a walk from the parking lot to the beach.
7. Signal Hill
Want panoramic views without the hike? Signal Hill is your best friend. It’s one of the easiest photo locations in Cape Town to access, but the views are anything but basic. You get the whole city spread out at your feet, the ocean stretching into the distance, and the dramatic silhouette of Lion’s Head and Table Mountain right behind you. It’s basically Cape Town’s skyline in 3D.
Sunset here is pure magic — the light gets warm and golden, the city starts to sparkle, and you get that perfect balance of urban-meets-nature vibes. Bring a blanket, and it doubles as a cozy picnic spot while we shoot.
📍 Signal Hill Parking Lot: Signal Hill Rd, Cape Town, 8001
💡 Pro tip: Go on a weekday to avoid traffic jams at sunset.
8. Constantia Vineyards
Romantic, elegant, and timeless — Constantia Vineyards are basically what dreams are made of. Rolling vineyards, historic Cape Dutch buildings, and golden fields make this one of the most photogenic places in the city.
If you love wine (who doesn’t?), it’s also the perfect excuse to turn your photo session into a mini wine-tasting adventure. Whether you’re going for classy engagement vibes or just want a gorgeous family session, Constantia always delivers.
📍 Groot Constantia Wine Estate: Groot Constantia Rd, Constantia, Cape Town, 7806
💡 Pro tip: Call ahead if you want to shoot inside the estate buildings. The vineyards and open spaces are free to explore.
9. Chapman's Peak Drive
Few places in the world can compete with the drama of Chapman’s Peak Drive. Winding along the cliffs between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, this iconic route gives you sweeping ocean views on one side and towering mountain cliffs on the other. It’s one of the most breathtaking photo locations in Cape Town if you want a mix of wild beauty and cinematic vibes.
The winding roads, lookout points, and sheer drops make for epic backdrops — perfect for the ones who love adventure and don’t mind pulling over for that “wow” shot. At golden hour, the whole coastline glows, and it feels like the edge of the world (without the long drive to the Cape Peninsula).
📍 Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Gate (Hout Bay side): Chapman’s Peak Dr, Hout Bay, Cape Town, 7806
💡 Pro tip: There’s a small toll fee, but it’s worth every cent for the views. Plan your session for sunrise or sunset when the light hits the cliffs just right.
10. Llandudno Beach
Last but not least: Llandudno Beach. A little quieter, a little moodier, and a lot more romantic. Llandudno Beach is tucked away and feels wild and untouched. With giant boulders, crashing waves, and soft golden light, it’s one of my favorite photo session locations in Cape Town for intimate shoots.
📍 Llandudno Beach: Llandudno Rd, Llandudno, Cape Town, 7806
💡 Pro tip: There are no shops around, so bring water and snacks if we’re shooting at sunset.
