Best Hotels with Snorkeling Near St James Beach

St James Beach is raw, wild beauty at its finest—no crowds, no frills, just crashing waves, soaring seagulls, and rugged cliffs that whisper ancient stories. Wander the hidden trails and stumble upon secret tidal pools so clear they mirror the sky and mountains like glass. This isn’t a photo op—it’s a soul reset.

Colona Castle

Colona Castle

4.3 / 5Good
off Old Boyes Drive, 1 Verwood Rd
2.49KM from St James Beach

Dreaming of Cape Town? This lakeside retreat spoils you with infinity pool spas, water parks, and private terraces with garden views. Families love the kids' club and childcare, while business travelers tap into free WiFi and meeting rooms. Cruise to beaches via shuttle, unwind with yoga classes, or dive into scuba adventures—all within reach. Don't miss the complimentary English breakfast served daily. With airport transfers and memory foam beds, every detail whispers luxury. Pro tip: Book a massage after surfing lessons!

Conference HallBowling AlleyDryerFamily-friendly HotelBarChildren's Play Area
per night
From
USD**8
Admiralty Bed & Breakfast

Admiralty Bed & Breakfast

4.5 / 5Great
6 Admirals Walk, Marina Da Gama
3.05KM from St James Beach

This B&B is a dream come true for family vacations! Nestled in Muizenberg, Cape Town, it's just a 5-minute drive to the beach and cultural spots. Kids will adore the water slides and pool, plus the play area and mini-golf. Adults can unwind with BBQ, snorkeling, or cocktails at the bar. Rooms are a cozy haven with premium mattresses and Egyptian cotton sheets. Enjoy free WiFi and airport shuttle services—every detail is thoughtfully designed for your comfort.

Water ParkDryerBarPicnic AreaDry Cleaning ServiceBarbecue
per night
From
USD**1
Sonnekus Boutique Hotel & Bistro in St James

Sonnekus Boutique Hotel & Bistro in St James

4.3 / 5Good
88 Main Rd
0.35KM from St James Beach

This boutique hotel is a paradise for vacationers! Just 4 minutes’ walk to St James Beach, and you can enjoy diving, snorkeling, and sailing. The Edwardian-style hotel offers SPA massages and free WiFi, with rooms featuring down duvets and premium bedding for ultimate comfort. Start your day with a continental breakfast and unwind at the bar in the evening. With 24-hour front desk and free parking, it’s all about convenience!

Water ParkDryerPicnic AreaDry Cleaning ServiceIroning ServiceFishing
per night
From
USD**3
Simon’s Town Guest House

Simon’s Town Guest House

4.7 / 5Great
20 Bennett Cl, Cairnside
5.56KM from St James Beach

This is the perfect spot for a fun-filled getaway! Just a short drive from Fishing Village Beach and Boulders Beach, the guesthouse offers free WiFi and a 24-hour airport shuttle for hassle-free travel. Love water sports? Try sailing, snorkeling, or kayaking, then unwind with a soothing massage. Rooms feature premium mattresses, minibars, and rain showers—pure comfort! Enjoy a full breakfast daily, with kids' meals available, making it ideal for families.

DryerHikingChildren's MealSailingFishingDiving
per night
From
USD**4
De la Hilcremat

De la Hilcremat

4.8 / 5Outstanding
7 Reids Way
6.2KM from St James Beach
HikingBicycle Rental ServiceLuggage StorageFishingDivingSnorkeling
per night
From
USD**8
On-The-Rocks

On-The-Rocks

4.7 / 5Great
37, Simonstown Road
3.52KM from St James Beach
BarbecueFishingBowling AlleyGolf CourseTennis CourtSurfing
per night
From
USD**0
A Place in Thyme

A Place in Thyme

4.7 / 5Great
54 Herschel Rd
4.59KM from St James Beach
Bowling AlleyHikingBarbecueFishingDivingSnorkeling
per night
From
USD**2
Paradise on the Bay

Paradise on the Bay

4.8 / 5Outstanding
39 Simonstown Road
3.51KM from St James Beach
FishingGolf CourseSurfingSnorkelingDivingHiking
per night
From
USD**5
Moonglow Guesthouse

Moonglow Guesthouse

4.6 / 5Great1 Reviews
7 Bennett Cl, Glencairn
5.68KM from St James Beach
HikingLuggage StorageDivingSnorkelingAirport Drop-off ServiceAirport Pick-up Service
per night
From
USD**2
Bluebottle Guesthouse

Bluebottle Guesthouse

4.4 / 5Good
18 Mount Rd
1.88KM from St James Beach
Conference HallWater ParkFamily-friendly HotelDryerBarbecueIroning Service
per night
From
USD**2
Pro Moni's Guesthouse

Pro Moni's Guesthouse

4.7 / 5Great
5 Alphen Hof
3.95KM from St James Beach
Children's Play AreaBarLuggage StorageFishingBowling AlleyWater Park
per night
From
USD**0
Blue on Blue Bed and Breakfast

Blue on Blue Bed and Breakfast

4.3 / 5Good1 Reviews
7946 south, 9 Sandhurst Rd
0.23KM from St James Beach
Luggage StorageFishingDivingSnorkelingAirport Drop-off ServiceAirport Pick-up Service
per night
From
USD**3

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about St James Beach

Cape Town Beachfront Hotel is ideal, located just steps from St James Beach with panoramic sea views. Its floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies offer breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and daily surf action. The hotel features an indoor pool, luxury spa, and 24-hour concierge service—perfect for relaxation and convenience.

Alternatively, The Shore House Cape Town boasts a sleek, modern coastal design and is nestled between the beach and vibrant local eateries. Both properties are in a safe, walkable neighborhood, with easy access to Cape Town’s city center (15 minutes by car), making it convenient to visit landmarks like Table Mountain and Robben Island.

The most convenient option is taking the MyCiTi bus service from central Cape Town to the "Beach Road" stop—just a 15-minute ride with frequent departures and low fares. For drivers, take the M3 highway south, exit at Beach Road, and park in the public beach lot or in nearby commercial parking garages.

Many hotels also offer complimentary shuttle services from the airport or city center, making access seamless for tourists. With well-connected roads and reliable public transit, reaching St James Beach is effortless—ideal for both day trips and extended stays.

Beyond sunbathing and swimming, try snorkeling tours to explore vibrant marine life, including clownfish and sea turtles, just offshore. Beginner-friendly surfing lessons are widely available with professional instructors and full gear provided—perfect for first-timers.

For romance and scenic views, join a sunset sailing cruise featuring champagne and light bites while gliding across the Atlantic. To connect with local culture, visit traditional African beach markets offering handmade crafts, fresh seafood, and artisanal goods. These experiences enrich your trip, showcasing Cape Town’s dynamic coastal heritage and natural beauty.

The Beach House Restaurant is a top choice, serving fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Their signature char-grilled sea bass with herb butter is a guest favorite.

Sundowner Bar & Grill excels in sunset dining, offering premium steaks and cocktails on an open-air deck overlooking the waves. For healthier options, Green & Fresh Café provides organic salads, cold-pressed juices, and plant-based meals in a serene setting.

Weekend beach markets also feature popular food trucks dishing out South African braai, corn on the cob, and artisanal ice cream—perfect for sampling local flavors in a casual, vibrant atmosphere.

The Boulders Hotel & Spa is a top choice, located just a 3-minute walk from St James Beach. Its modern South African-inspired design features private terraces with direct views of the Atlantic Ocean. The hotel offers complimentary parking, an indoor pool, and a luxury spa—perfect for a relaxing coastal retreat in Cape Town.

The most convenient options are taking the MyCiTi bus or renting an e-bike—both take about 20 minutes. Driving via Cape Peninsula Drive offers scenic ocean views along the way. Alternatively, Uber or Bolt taxis are efficient, reaching St James Beach in around 15 minutes, ideal for travelers with luggage.

St James Beach is ideal for surfing and snorkeling, with local providers offering gear rentals and beginner lessons. During summer, join a sunset paddleboarding tour—gliding along the coast while enjoying panoramic views of Cape Town’s skyline and the Table Mountain reflection in the calm waters.

Try The Beach House Café, a seaside bistro renowned for fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Their signature grilled tuna sandwich with house-made fries is a must-try. Another standout is Sunset Grill, open in the evenings, serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a rooftop terrace perfect for watching the golden sunset over the Atlantic.

Traveler Reviews

See what other travelers say about St James Beach

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HG*R‍i‍c‍h‍a‍r‍d

Colona Castle

The staff at Colona Castle Hotel went above and beyond in every way—warm, attentive, and genuinely committed to making our stay exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with a level of hospitality that felt personal and thoughtful. The attention to detail, the friendly smiles, and the seamless service made us feel truly valued. Located just minutes from downtown Cape Town, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring the city. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s an experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Cape Town.