Running north from Cape Town around the rim of Table Bay are the towns of Blouberg, Milnerton and Tableview, all of which have experienced exponential growth over the last decade as developers have cashed in on the cheap seaside land that runs uninterrupted up to Namibia and beyond.

The explosion of building has put beach-side living within the reach of the middle-income bracket, and has attracted young families in their droves. Unfortunately, the rapid spread of suburbia has given rise to a sprawl of modular homes that has left the area with no real hub and precious little atmosphere. Furthermore, the growth of the area appears to have outpaced the provision of infrastructure, and water shortages, sewage disposal problems and rush-hour jams are on the rise.

However, the beaches are perfect and the views across the bay to Table Mountain are stunning. There is a wide range of property in the area including houses, apartments and security complexes. There are also three government schools and four private schools in the immediate environs. The Canal Walk shopping centre, located about 5km inland, is one of the best malls in the country, and entertainment is provided by beach-front restaurants, cafes and clubs.

The bay is world-famous for its kitesurfing and windsurfing and, accordingly, for its very strong winds. Golfers can choose from the Milnerton links course, dating from the 1920s, or the posh new Atlantic Beach course.