March 17, 2026 05:29 am

Buying an Airbnb Property in Cape Town’s Deep South: Investor Guide

Cape Town has become one of the most attractive global destinations for short-term rental property investment. With strong international tourism, a favourable exchange rate for foreign travellers, and a limited supply of premium coastal homes, Airbnb properties can generate significantly higher income than traditional long-term rentals.

While many investors focus on the Atlantic Seaboard, experienced operators are increasingly seeing opportunity in Cape Town’s Deep South, a stretch of coastline that includes Kommetjie, Noordhoek, Scarborough and Misty Cliffs.

For investors seeking both lifestyle ownership and strong rental returns, the Deep South offers a compelling opportunity.

Why Investors Are Looking at Cape Town’s Deep South

The Deep South offers something many high-end travellers are now prioritising: space, nature and privacy.

 Unlike the busy city bowl, this area provides:

 

• large coastal homes ideal for families

• direct access to beaches and nature reserves

• quieter surroundings while still being close to Cape Town

• limited supply of premium short-term rental homes

 

These characteristics make the area particularly attractive for longer holiday stays, with many guests booking between 4 and 14 nights. 

Longer stays reduce turnover costs and provide more stable occupancy for property owners.

 

How Much Can an Airbnb Property Earn?

For premium homes in the Deep South, annual revenue can reach approximately:

 R1.6 million – R2 million per year

 

This estimate assumes:

  • around
  • 65–70% annual occupancy
  • approximately
  • 230 nights booked annually

 

Cape Town’s short-term rental market follows a seasonal pricing structure with peak summer demand driving a significant portion of

annual income. 

 

Typical Airbnb Nightly Rates


Premium coastal homes in the Deep South typically achieve:

 

Peak Season (Dec – Feb)

R15,000 – R18,000 per night

 

Shoulder Season (Mar – Apr / Sep – Nov)

R12,000 – R15,000 per night

 

Winter Season (May – Aug)

R8,500 – R10,000 per night 

 

Despite winter being quieter, Cape Town still attracts surfers, digital nomads and long-stay travellers.

 

Expected Investment Yield

Short-term rental properties in Cape Town can generate significantly higher yields than traditional rental investments.

 

Typical yields include:

 

Long-term rental property 4–6%

 

Short-term rental property

8–13% net yield depending on occupancy and pricing. 

 

For many investors this makes short-term rentals one of the most attractive property strategies available in the city.

 

What Makes a Good Airbnb Investment Property?

Not every property performs well as a short-term rental.

 

Successful Airbnb properties in the Deep South typically have:

 

• ocean views or close proximity to the beach

• 3–5 bedrooms suitable for family groups

• outdoor living areas and entertainment spaces

• high-end finishes and modern design

• strong interior styling and photography

 

Properties that combine these elements tend to achieve higher nightly rates and stronger occupancy.

 

Why Professional Management Matters


The difference between an average performing Airbnb and a top performer is usually professional management and pricing optimisation.

 

A full-service management company typically provides:

 

• dynamic pricing strategy

• guest communication and booking management

• cleaning and linen coordination

• maintenance oversight

• financial reporting for owners

 

This allows investors to benefit from the short-term rental market without managing daily operations themselves.

Investing in the Deep South Lifestyle

One of the unique advantages of buying property in the Deep South is that it offers both financial return and lifestyle value.

 

Many investors choose properties here because they can:

 

• generate rental income while not in residence

• use the property for holidays with family

• benefit from long-term property appreciation

• own a home in one of the most scenic parts of Cape Town

 

 

Work With a Deep South Specialist

South Seas Properties specialises in premium short-term rental management exclusively in Cape Town’s Deep South, including:

  • Kommetjie
  • Scarborough
  • Misty
  • Cliffs
  • Noordhoek

 

Our focus is on helping investors maximise revenue while maintaining exceptional guest experiences.

 

For investor enquiries or management proposals:

 

South Seas Properties manager@southseasproperties.co.za