Cape point south africa

Cape Point at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula is home to the 1919 lighthouse and one of South Africa's most visited tourist attractions.

About this subject

Cape Point, located at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa, is a rugged promontory often confused with the Cape of Good Hope. Actually, the true meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans is Cape Agulhas, but Cape Point offers dramatic cliffs and the iconic lighthouse.

The first lighthouse in the area was built in 1860 atop the Cape of Good Hope, but it was frequently obscured by clouds. In 1919, a new lighthouse was erected at 238 meters altitude on Cape Point. The cylindrical reinforced concrete structure is 18 meters tall and emits a white flash every 10 seconds, visible up to 53 kilometers. Today the lighthouse is automated and the site is a major attraction within Table Mountain National Park.

The surrounding vegetation is fynbos, a Cape biome with over 1,500 plant species, many endemic. Wildlife includes chacma baboons (Papio ursinus), antelopes, and seabirds. Access is via a trail to the point, where views include waves crashing against rocks and, on clear days, an endless ocean horizon.

Long-exposure photography captures wave motion and lighthouse light, revealing the sea’s power and the site’s grandeur. Cape Point remains a navigation landmark and a piece of South African history, drawing visitors from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope?

Cape Point is a promontory within Table Mountain National Park, while Cape of Good Hope is the southernmost cape of the Cape Peninsula. The main lighthouse is at Cape Point, and the historic cape is more famous.

Can you climb the Cape Point lighthouse?

Yes, visitors can climb a spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse. The viewpoint offers panoramic views of the coastline and ocean.

Where do the two oceans meet at Cape Point?

Although popularly said to meet at Cape Point, the official meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans is Cape Agulhas, about 150 km to the east.