Llandudno: Beach, Atlantic and Granite

Llandudno Beach lies between Klein Leeukoppie and the Twelfth Apostle of Table Mountain, overlooking the Atlantic. Judas Peak and Klein Leeukoppie lie on either side of the beach. Turquoise water and fine white sand define the beach. Two kinds of landmarks are useful for orientation: the Atlantic as a view and the named peaks on either side of the beach.

The Beach Through the Seasons

The sand changes over the course of the year: some of it disappears during the winter storms and returns in summer. The visible beach is therefore shaped by the seasons. If the sandy area matters to you, this seasonal change is one factor in choosing when to travel. A summer view cannot simply be assumed to match what you will see in winter.

Water Temperature and Surfing

The water temperature also varies by season: in summer, the water may be the coldest in Africa; in winter, it is often a few degrees warmer. The seasonal details do not present a uniform picture: the sand returns in summer, while the water can be particularly cold; in winter, some sandy areas disappear during storms, while the water is often warmer.

Llandudno is a surf spot suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. The hollow wave works in south to southeast winds. The skill-level guidance describes who the spot is suitable for; the wind direction indicates a condition for the hollow wave. Since surf conditions vary with the weather, it is worth checking the conditions for your dates.

Swimming and Storm Waves

Wind, wave conditions and the pattern of the sandbanks are important factors for swimming. Depending on these conditions, strong currents can develop at Llandudno Beach, easily pulling unwary swimmers out to sea. Take local conditions into account when deciding whether to swim. During storms, waves up to 6 or 7 metres high can break at Llandudno Beach and crash against the large granite boulders around it. The currents depend on wind, wave conditions and sandbanks, while the reference to large waves specifically concerns storms.

Geology and Landscape

Llandudno also has clearly identified geological and landscape landmarks beyond the water. In Logies Bay, a 44-metre-wide dolerite dyke lies beside the granite outcrop rocks. According to a specification dated 20 September 2017, the green belt above Llandudno Beach—except for the area near the Lifesavers Clubhouse—extends to the Filtration Plant and Logies Rocks.

Seasonal Award

Llandudno Beach has received Blue Flag status during the summer season from December to January since 2011. This information applies to the stated season and does not describe a year-round status.

Discover more destinations: Melkbosstrand, Blackheath, Rondebosch, Southern Suburbs, Kommetjie, Milnerton, Green Point, Muizenberg

For the main travel overview: Cape Town.