Sandy Bay Beach, Cape Town, South Africa

Attention! From our reports, you may or may not be surprised, happy to know the Sandy Bay Beach South Africa is…well, unofficially “nude!” Yes, you read right and if you take a gander at the pictures here you can kinda see that’s what we have. Most of the “nudity” is on the south end of the beach. And before you get too comfortable, know that there are three beaches. Known by their numbers, you’ll be able to pick and choose your “comfort” level as well. Here’s how we were informed it breaks down: The southern part of Sandy Bay is the nude portion. Mainly gay men gather here on any given weekend.

On “First Beach” you’ll find the sun worshipers and those who are trendy with their couture swim attire and beach accessories. Then on Third Beach we met with teens. Naturally we found that when families with teens arrive at First Beach, the teens stroll off to Third. Makes sense, no? And then, Fourth Beach is the overall family beach. Take our word for it - you’ll want to hang out here as well. Can you say “facilities?” Yes - nearby parking and food stands, restrooms, showers. We’re there!

Sunsets here are breathtaking as the shoreline faces west. Take it in. You’re in Africa!

If you rent a car in Cape Town, find the coastal road “Melkbosstrand” and drive until you start seeing the beaches. They are just down the road and within view of majestic Table Mountain.

There is a lot to see here. The beach is breathtaking in several areas where large rock outcroppings give way to deep blue ocean waves. And I know you’ve heard of shark in this neck of the woods.

Simply ask around if there have been any sightings and use common sense. Most people want to hang out on the sand, but you’ll enjoy the water as well and it only makes sense to say that you’ve actually taken a dip in this part of the world.

One item that caught our interest is the diversity of nature here. You’ll see iguana type lizards along with penguins on other parts of the rocks. And there are some area of the beach with modern rentals such as windsurf, paddleboard, kiteboarding and more. Simply stop in and ask, or check with your concierge when you arrive at your hotel in Cape Town.

Cape Town - I mean, what do you really think of when you think of Cape Town? I think of the end of the earth - bottom on the globe even though it may be spinning in some other axis when you look at it from the galaxies. What a wonderful and exotic place! Soak in the culture and enjoy what is set before you. Breathe deep and take in everything.

And don’t worry your little head if you think the whole length of Sandy Bay Beach South Africa is nude. It’s not. And there are other great beaches around the Cape Town area. You’ll have plenty to choose from. We only threw that in there to make sure you are prepared and that you know what you’re getting in to…or taking off. The choice is yours.

Sandy Bay Beach, Cape Town, South Africa - Beach Index:

  • Powdery sand that is not tightly packed - white
  • World renowned beach with plenty of culture
  • Limited facilities
  • Sports equipment to rent
  • Cape Town - come on! Who gets to come here? Enjoy this beach!

Playa Rincon, Samana - Dominican Republic

Playa Rincon Samana

Las Galeras, the once small fishing village has awakened. It was once untouched, with a natural beauty found only in the most remote spots. But, because it is close to the city of Samana, wealthy Dominicans made it their weekend paradise.

Since that time, Las Galeras has been set on the map mainly by abundance of beaches and the landscape that is majestic and simple, all at the same time. Las Galeras Beach is here, as well as the more famous Playa Rincon. And people are awakening to see that this is prime ocean front property with beautiful year-round weather in a country with a stable government, and far away from it all. What more could you ask for? Oh, and the problem with mosquitoes? Ask me what they’re doing to combat them. Pretty high tech!

Rincon is a quiet beach, usually deserted, on a small bay - but with no hotels in site. And, no vendors, booths, signs, radios - all the paraphernalia that comes with a popular beach. Nearby, a fresh-water lagoon to rinse off in. Sweet.

You don’t need a boat to get to Playa Rincon, Dominican Republic. You can get a taxi out of Las Terrenas or Samana to Las Galeras. Just before Las Galeras you’ll see the turn-off to Playa Rincon. The road is pretty rugged from here, so plan accordingly (timewise). If you do have the time, plan a stop at one of the local eateries and experience what food in this neck of the woods is like. You won’t find more hospitable people than Dominicans. They know what they have and they are proud of it. This is pretty close to paradise. Just look.

Playa Rincon SamanaSo plan to eat at Playa Rincon as the fish and langosta are reportedly the best in the Dominican Republic. And, if time permits, take a tour down to beautiful Playa Bonita. It’s romantic and peaceful.

But any place along the shore is simply breathtaking and well worth your visit. See if you can book online for a week or month and spend time here getting to know the whole concept of living in the Caribbean.

Maybe Columbus didn’t have it so bad?

Las Terrenas is busy; Las Galeras somewhat less, and Playa Rincon is sleepy. Enjoy.

Playa Rincon - Beach Index:

  • Sand - medium grain.
  • Facilities - few, some food huts.
  • Shade - palms, trees.
  • Sports - none.
  • Notes - pretty deserted - enjoy!

When I visited this area earlier this year, I was so impressed, I’ve decided to invest in real estate here. A nice home right on the beach would suit me fine. OK, doesn’t have to be year-round or when the hurricanes are moving in, but it would be paradise to get away from the rat race. And did I mention the cost of living here is cheap?

A very special thanks to Tony van der Heijden of Immomexx for these pictures. Please visit his site http://www.dr2007.com/ for information about Real Estate in this super hot area of the Dominican Republic.