South Africa has no shortage of scenic neighbourhoods, but one coastal gem continues to fly under the radar: Scarborough.
Hidden away on the Atlantic side of the Cape Peninsula, just beyond the curve of Kommetjie and bordering the edge of the Cape Point Nature Reserve, Scarborough is where mountain meets ocean in a way that feels untouched, raw, and entirely cinematic.
And yet, almost nobody’s talking about it!
Scarborough: A hidden paradise
Scarborough isn’t just quiet. It’s secluded. With no major commercial strips or traffic-heavy streets, it feels more like a nature reserve than a suburb. A handful of eco-conscious homes hug the hillside, many with panoramic views stretching from the deep blues of the Atlantic to the jagged peaks of the surrounding mountains.
Unlike hotspots like Camps Bay or Hout Bay, this SA suburb isn’t built for show. There are no velvet ropes, no designer boutiques. It’s where surfers, artists, writers, and those chasing off-grid peace end up – often permanently.
The views speak for themselves
On a clear day, the views from Scarborough are borderline surreal. The sun dips into the ocean with a fiery fade that lights up the entire coastline. Mist curls off the mountains in the early morning like something from a dream. From just about any spot in this SA suburb, you’re surrounded by sweeping natural drama – waves crashing into boulders, cliffs carved by wind, and sky that seems to go on forever.
For photographers and nature lovers, it’s a goldmine. For locals, it’s a quiet privilege they’re in no rush to advertise.
Nature first, always
Scarborough is officially part of the Cape Point section of the Table Mountain National Park, which means conservation isn’t just a value here – it’s the law. No fast food joints. No high-rises. Just eco-homes, indigenous gardens, and wildlife that still roam freely. Think baboons, porcupines, even the occasional caracal.
You’ll also find one of the most unspoiled beaches in the Western Cape. It’s wild, often windy, and completely free of umbrellas or vendors. Perfect for long walks, cold swims, or simply sitting in awe.
The locals like it low-key
Ask anyone who lives in Scarborough why they’re there, and you’ll probably get a knowing smile followed by a vague answer. They don’t want it to change. They know they’re sitting on something special, and part of its magic lies in how under-the-radar it still is.
No, it’s not for everyone. There’s no mall, no nightlife, and very limited cell signal in some spots. But for those looking to escape the noise without losing the ocean, Scarborough is close to perfect!
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