The French Riviera – or Côte d’Azur – is known for its sun-drenched beaches, cliff-hugging roads, luxury yachts, and that distinct mix of glamour and seaside calm. But you don’t need a Schengen visa to experience that magic. South Africa has its own coastal gems that channel similar energy – Mediterranean flair, picturesque views, and upscale charm. Here are six places in SA that could easily pass for spots on the French Riviera…
1. Camps Bay, Cape Town
Camps Bay is Cape Town’s own slice of Côte d’Azur glam. Think palm trees, designer sunglasses, and cocktails with ocean views. Tucked between the Atlantic and the Twelve Apostles mountain range, this beach suburb delivers high-end restaurants, luxury apartments, and a beachfront scene that rivals the French Riviera’s Nice or Cannes.
Take a look here: #campsbay
2. Knysna, Garden Route
With its calm lagoon, yacht-lined marinas, and surrounding forested hills, South Africa’s Knysna could pass for a quieter Antibes. The town is stylish but not showy, filled with boutique hotels, craft markets, and waterside dining. It’s also a hotspot for sailing, just like many Mediterranean harbours.
Take a look here: #knysna
3. Hermanus, Western Cape
Known for whale watching, Hermanus is more than just a wildlife destination. Its cliff paths, art galleries, and wine lounges give it a chic coastal atmosphere. Think French Riviera Cassis with binoculars. It’s a town where you can spend your morning hiking, your afternoon wine tasting, and your evening watching the ocean turn gold.
Take a look here: #hermanus
4. Paternoster, West Coast
This whitewashed fishing village echoes the look of some Mediterranean coastal towns – simple, sun-bleached, and deeply photogenic. Paternoster has a slower pace but offers gourmet seafood, boutique stays, and sunsets that feel straight out of a Riviera postcard.
Take a look here: #paternoster
5. Simon’s Town, Cape Town
South Africa’s Simon’s Town mixes naval history with seaside elegance. Its Victorian architecture and café culture feel European, and the harbour is dotted with yachts and fishing boats alike. Add a scenic train ride along the coast and penguin-dotted beaches, and it starts to resemble the quieter corners of the French south coast.
Take a look here: #simonstown
6. St. Francis Bay, Eastern Cape
St. Francis Bay is all black-roofed houses, canals, and calm elegance. It’s the South African version of Port Grimaud, with white walls and water everywhere. The town is laid-back but upscale, with golf courses, fine restaurants, and pristine surf spots – a Riviera feel, minus the crowds.
Take a look here: #stfrancisbay
Have you visited any of these beautiful towns in South Africa?
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