Enchanting 4 bed/4bath just one block from the beach, in private secluded garden
Shell Cottage and its secret garden is a truly magical space, a haven of tranquility just off the beachfront. Timber boardwalks meander through the lushest garden imaginable filled with trees, birds and a bouquet of scented flowers and citrus. One of Camps Bay’s original coastal homes, it has been restored into a stylish, secluded retreat with four bedrooms, each with their own bathroom and outdoor area, whilst retaining its historic roots.
It's a historic home that's been restyled, with great attention to detail by a leading designer, into a beach-chic retreat where you can truly relax. Our guests say that they immediately feel at peace in this home filled with beauty, inside and out.You'll be welcomed and cared for with a gentle smile by our housekeeper, Priviledge. Without exception, our guests love both her and this magical place...it's all in the reviews!
Shell Cottage is located in the village, just one road removed from the trendy buzz of the beach promenade, but step through your private gate and you'll find yourself in a secret garden, hidden away from the world and filled with shady trees, hibiscus, bougainvillea and all manner of flowers and scents. Floating timber decks overhung by a giant Persian Lilac tree are surrounded by views of the Twelve Apostles and Lions Head mountains.
Though intimate, this light-filled house with its high ceilings feels spacious and airy, as it enjoys a wonderful flow from outside to inside, from every room. Designed with great attention to detail, the house as been curated with original art and stylish, comfortable furniture, large down-filled cushions, a basket of soft throws, books, boardgames.... There's also a glass walled yoga room in the garden for your practice, which could also be used as a playroom for the little ones or a private home office.
We want to you to relax and restore during your stay here, so beds are dressed with white pure cotton linen and soft blankets, plump pillows, goose down duvets. Each bedroom has somewhere to sit quietly, both inside and outside. In the 'green season' we have heating blankets on every bed, heating in every room and unlimited firewood for the open fireplace. In summer we have aircon in the rooms that get the sun, and fans in all other rooms.
Equipped to to the highest standard, the house offers everything international travellers may need in a self catering property at no extra charge, including unlimited fibre wi-fi, electricity, a large Smart TV with Netflix, pool and garden servicing, discrete private security on call and the daily care (weekends excluded) of the world's most wonderful housekeeper, Privilege. For those loadshedding moments we have an inverter and battery that powers the high speed fibre wifi and TV at all times, lights, and a gas stove so you can always cook or make tea or coffee.
One of the best things about Shell Cottage is its most desirable position - Camps Bay beachfront is very close; less than a 2 minute stroll from the front door down a palm lined walkway. Despite being so close to the buzz, the cottage suffers no noise due to its secluded panhandle location off The Drive, a quiet residential road. The local tennis courts, where you are welcome to play, sports field and kiddies play park are across the road, and within a few minutes’ walk you have access to in excess of 35 restaurants, a number of bars, a library, shops, and all the other amenities that Camps Bay offers. The sports bar at the back of the field is a great place to meet the locals for a drink and watch a game.
We have a record of 100% safety in the two decades that we've owned this home, due to its secluded position surrounded by other properties with a very narrow, protected street frontage, the street security patrol of the nearby 5* hotel and our own alarm system monitored by 24 hour security located two blocks away (good to have but has never been necessary).
It's is a holiday house that appeals to all ages. Its single level layout and enclosed garden suits families with young children or the elderly, but its stylish design and great location, just behind the trendy sunset strip and the beach’s great surf break, make it a dream holiday location for a group of friends who want to have a fun holiday.
We'd love you to come and experience Shell Cottage, where our whole focus is to give our valued guests their best holiday experience ever.
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Please enjoy socialising at Shell Cottage but no parties, events, stag or bachelorette groups, and protect the original art and treasures throughout.
Please set the alarm when you go out, always keep the gates closed, and no strangers allowed in - let's keep Shell Cottage secret and secure
Check in is done free of charge on weekdays up to 5pm latest. If your arrival is later than that or weekends there is a call out charge of R500.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Cape Town
Located in Camps Bay, a neighbourhood in Cape Town, this holiday home is in the mountains and near the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Camps Bay Beach and Table Mountain. Travelling with kids? Consider Sea Point Swimming Pool and Iziko South African Museum. Discover the area's water adventures with snorkelling and windsurfing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and horse riding.
Table Mountain National Park - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
Maiden's Cove - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
Clifton Bay Beach - 2 min drive - 1.7 km
Getting around
Woodstock Station - 10 min drive
Cape Town Station - 15 min drive
Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) - 30 min drive
Restaurants
Cafe Caprice - 6 min walk
Zenzero - 4 min walk
Mantra Cafe - 5 min walk
Starbucks - 4 min walk
Hard Rock Cafe Cape Town - 4 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Does Enchanting 4 bed/4bath just one block from the beach, in private secluded garden have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool. Pool types include heated pools.
How much does it cost to stay at Enchanting 4 bed/4bath just one block from the beach, in private secluded garden?
As of 8 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Enchanting 4 bed/4bath just one block from the beach, in private secluded garden on 28 April 2026 start from NZ$684, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Enchanting 4 bed/4bath just one block from the beach, in private secluded garden pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Enchanting 4 bed/4bath just one block from the beach, in private secluded garden?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Enchanting 4 bed/4bath just one block from the beach, in private secluded garden?
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Enchanting 4 bed/4bath just one block from the beach, in private secluded garden?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Enchanting 4 bed/4bath just one block from the beach, in private secluded garden located?
This family-friendly Cape Town holiday home is located by the sea, within a 15-minute walk of Camps Bay Beach and Table Mountain National Park. Maiden's Cove and Clifton Bay Beach are also within 2 miles (3 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Everything about this stay was superb. From the pre arrival communication with the owner and check in process to the well appointed house and kitchen we felt truly at home the entire time. The house is incredible and the location is unbeatable. We can’t wait to come stay again.
Lisa S.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 April 2025
Thank you for the glowing review, Lisa. We so enjoyed hosting you and would love you to come back again!
We loved the location. Walking distance to wonderful restaurants and the beach and the bus tour. The place was perfect for our group and we were well taken care of.
Roberta B.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 15 June 2024
Thank you so much, Roberta, you were wonderful guests!
This is a perfect location and provides everything we needed for our Cape Town stay. Shell Cottage is a little gem and we recommend it 5* Privilege was helpful and looked after us 1st class.
Christine W.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 8 August 2023
Thank you so much, Christine, it was a pleasure to host you at Shell Cottage and Priviledge really enjoyed meeting you and your family. Thank you for being such wonderful guests, and please come back in beach season!
Great location, wonderful house very comfortable warm and inviting. Spotless and tidy. Highly recommend.
Jocelyn M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 July 2024
Thank you so much, Jocelyn. Priviledge and I were very touched by your beautiful handwritten note too!
We hope to welcome you to Shell Cottage again in the future.
Shell cottage was a lovely place to stay. It had everything we needed and more. The rooms were all very comfortable and well equipped. The garden was a beautiful place to sit with your morning coffee and listen to the bird song and to relax with a glass in the evening. Housekeeping was excellent and the host was very accommodating
Everything was perfect- Property manager, amazing house keeper, beautiful garden, 2 blocks to the ocean. We’d love to come back soon!
Nancy L.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 July 2022
Thank you so much, Nancy. You and your party were wonderful guests and I do hope you return soon. We'd love to have you for longer next time, and in summer!
The house was very comfortable for seven adults and had so much character. Great location close to Table Mountain, Signal Hill and Chapman’s Peak. Alia gave us lots of useful information for our stay.
Paul H.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 6 April 2020
Thanks Paul, your family were absolutely delightful guests and I'd love to see you back in Cape Town one day!
Beautiful cottage, great location near the beach and restaurants. Felt very safe. Two very good supermarkets nearby, 3 min walk. The cottage feels very calm, very relaxing. Privy the housemaid is amazing and very attentive and flexible. Easy process re late check in too. And Alia, thank you for the late check out, making our last day awesome too. J
Great communications with host, great care taken to make us all comfortable and welcome. Privilege took good care of us and always with a smile. We had a very comfortable stay in the middle of camps bay within easy reach of other attractions, beach, restaurants and supermarkets.
Spent an amazing four days at the Shell cottage. Alia was so accommodating of our travel timeframe. Priviledge, who cares for the property is an angel!!
Shell Cottage is a hidden gem - not showy but definitely has all amenities, is authentic to the region and in a fabulous location to enjoy all that Camps Bay, Cape Town and the Peninsula has to offer.Privy, the housekeeper, provides a super service with a big smile wonderful and discreet.The only downside for us was that the pool water was soooo cold but we all still used it.
This is a great find. If you get the chance to stay here it don't hesitate. From the local shops and bars (especially the Codfather) and Woolworths (not as we knew it in the UK, but more like a waitrose) it's perfect! The beach is only a 10 min walk away and Uber's into Capetown cost about £3, so no need to hire a car while you'rehere!
William J.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Betsy M.
11 November 2013
Beautiful Cottage, Great location
My family of 6 stayed here for a week and it was perfect. Beautiful home with great decor. Each bedroom has its own bath so it felt very private. We loved the outdoor living area and pool. Location is great, just a short walk to the beach and restaurants so our grown kids could go out on their own. Ali is a wonderful host and the house was clearned and spotless every day. We'd love to stay here again!
Betsy M.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
...and I would love you to come back again! It was an absolute pleasure to meet you all and I am so happy you had such a great time. I had given the cottage its annual decor revamp to refresh it for the season just before your arrival, so am glad you liked it. Truly hope to see your family back in Cape Town soon.
Best wishes
Ali
Shell Cottage is a delightful property within a short walk to beach and many restaurants and shops in Camps Bay. Property is mature with lovely gardens and planting , comfortable furnishings. Alia may be THE best VRBO host we have ever had (3-4 rentals /year) - everything you could possibly need with prompt and helpful responses. Priviledge takes great care of you and her warm smile brightens every day. I highly recommend this location and absolutely wonderful accommodations.
Amazing location but house itself if a little tired for the price.
I did not find Vrbo a reliable app to use. The payment platform failed for both of my transactions and did not send me payment reminders.
Property host was fine but curt.
Chloe B.
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 1 December 2022
I dont believe this is a fair review. Chloe started by booking 4 nights in June 2022 and I welcomed her warmly. Her credit card was declined but she blamed VRBO. We chatted and I sent her another pre-approval, but her card was declined again. I then sent her a third offer and she paid.
The next month she sent a new request for extra dates instead of requesting a change. Because she still had her first booking in place the site was unable to process it, so we had to cancel everything and start again, with all the same payment issues. I kept her booking all this time without any payment, which was finally done in August.
In September I sent her the request for the balance payment. Again, she didnt pay despite several reminders, yet I still retained her booking for her. This went on for 6 weeks while she again accused the site of being faulty while her credit card bounced. Then, still without paying, she started to request all sorts of extra services like baby equipment and after hours check in, which we obliged.
Eventually she paid her balance almost 2 months late. We still kept her booking for her with many extra hours of admin, gave her a warm welcome, excellent service throughout and fulfilled all her extra requests for free.
To accuse VRBO of being unreliable and failing her transactions is quite untrue, the issue was with her credit card. She also says it didn't send payment reminders, when in fact she received a total of 9 reminders...she just didn't respond to them.
Shell Cottage is very well situated, only 2 minutes walk from the Beach and restaurants.
The house is cozy and has a lot of charm!
It is not very big but has anything you need!
However, there is no shower in one of the bathrooms, only a bathtub with no shower head, the shower is outside (too cold) and the door is very hard to open.
Our overall feeling was great, however, I feel like the house shall be renovated slightly to improve a few things (, shower in the bathroom, sofas on the verandah, timber flooring in dining makes a lot of noise, the two bedroom doors (leading to the dining) could be improved to reduce noise).
Otherwise, I do recommend it!! Worth the price!
Olivia E.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 October 2022
Dear Olivia
Im so glad you had a good stay at Shell Cottage; we very much enjoyed hosting your group.
We usually schedule an annual maintenance program in September and October, and so far have replanted the garden in time for spring, addressed any damp issues that accumulated over the winter and painted the house throughout. This year we have been exceptionally full, though, so we are doing the work in stages between guests. We still need to address a few issues, so thank you for bringing the sticky door to my attention, I will add it to my builders' list when they come next week.
Ive never had that comment about the shower in Bedroom 4 before...guests generally love the secluded outside shower as it has plenty of hot water, or they use one of the other 3 showers in the house if they prefer not to bath. I will certainly look at the outdoor sofa, it was redone 2 years ago but it's such a lovely spot to sit there on the verandah that it gets much use.
Many thanks for your very valuable feedback, and we hope that you become one of our regular visitors to Shell Cottage.
4 of us stayed at the cottage, each with our own room and bathroom. What a great setup. We felt very safe and comfortable. Short walking distance to restaurants, groceries, and the beach. Once you enter the gate to the home, it is like you are in your own private garden oasis with great outdoor sitting areas and a pool. One bedroom had an outdoor shower that we used frequently. The kitchen had everything we needed including filtered water and a coffee maker. The Wi-Fi always worked and battery powered lights were provided for load shedding, which turned out to not be as big a deal as we thought it might be. The manager, Privledge, stopped by each day to clean and make sure we had everything we needed. What a great, kind person. This was our first time to South Africa and we had an absolute 5 star stay! We would recommend to anyone visiting Cape Town/Camps Bay.
Jeremy J.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
About the host
Hosted by Alia Preyer
I specialise in high end residential architecture and love to create homes that are a joy to live in. I purchased Shell Cottage in 2004 and have done extensive renovations, and continue to do so each year to make it better and better.
Because I own 4 other rental properties in Cape Town and Greece, and have renovated or built each one personally, and also had my own villa rental company, I believe I really do understand the needs of international travellers. I strive to make my guests' experience the absolute best it can be. After all, you've come all this way, and we want to you to love Shell Cottage and Cape Town, and come back again and again!
Why they chose this property
Simply this: everyone who stays here absolutely loves this house, and we love our guests. We treat them like VIPs, believe in generosity at all times, and are so happy that many of our guests return year after year.
What makes this property unique
So close to the beach yet so very private and serene, set in the most beautiful garden with lovely mountain views. Absolutely no traffic noise, very secluded, completely secure. A very happy home.
Languages:
English, French, Greek
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests