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Craving the coast? These are the best tidal pools in Cape Town that will have you hooked!
I’ve had the pleasure of exploring Cape Town’s coastline and discovering its hidden treasures known as tidal pools. These little rocky havens offer a safe and serene spot for a dip, away from the hustle and bustle of the popular beaches.
Here, I’ll share my favourite ones, ranging from surfers’ paradises like St. James to family-friendly spots like Milton.
Brass Bell
Address: 41 Main Road Kalk Bay Station, Kalk Bay
The Brass Bell Tidal Pool is located right in front of the Brass Bell Restaurant. While waiting for my meal, I couldn’t resist taking a quick dip.
The pools are open to the public, even if you’re not dining at the restaurant, making it a perfect stop for a refreshing swim.
The location is ideal, surrounded by other charming eateries and boutiques in the boho-chic suburb of Kalk Bay.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on the sushi platter deal at the Brass Bell Restaurant. It’s a perfect way to indulge after a swim, especially with the weekday buy one, get one free offer from 3 PM to 6 PM. |
Buffels Bay
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Address: Cape Point Nature Reserve
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 7 AM to 5 PM
Buffels Bay is a stunning, uncrowded beach with white sand and clear blue water. The area is rich in flora and fauna, and I saw local wildlife like antelopes and ostriches!
The tidal pool there is great for a safe swim, especially for kids, and it’s great for a post-hike dip. Plus, there’s a natural rock pool right next to the manmade one.
It’s also a fantastic spot for a picnic or a braai, and you can even launch kayaks or canoes from the slipway nearby.
| Pro Tip: Always remember to secure your food items; the local baboons are known for their cunning and can quickly snatch away any unguarded snacks. |
Camps Bay
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Address: Victoria Road, Bakoven
Operating Hours:
- Open 24/7
Camps Bay tidal pool is a popular spot with a beautiful view of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. It’s conveniently located with easy access from the main road.
I especially love heading there for a swim in the late afternoon or at sunset; the setting is absolutely stunning. Sometimes, the pool’s water can be warmer than the surrounding ocean, likely due to its spot and the southeast wind.
It’s a great place for families, and if you visit on weekends or holidays, expect it to be pretty crowded. In the mornings, I often see swimmers doing laps and joggers cooling off in the pool after their coastal runs.
| Pro Tip: Plan your visit during low tide to enjoy the calmest waters. After your swim, take a short stroll to Victoria Road to indulge in the local cuisine. |
Dalebrook
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Address: Dalebrook Road
Operating Hours:
- Open 24/7
Dalebrook Tidal Pool is great for families, with a shallow swimming area and a low wall that allows constant water refreshment by the ocean.
I enjoyed exploring the rock pools and gullies, and there’s a sandy area that’s ideal for lounging and relaxation. The spot is sheltered from the wind, and the morning sunshine makes it a pleasant place to spend time.
There are convenient amenities like toilets, a changing room, and an outdoor shower. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of whales in the area.
| Pro Tip: Before heading to the tidal pool, pack a picnic to enjoy by the water’s edge, as there are no on-site restaurants or shops. |
Glencairn
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Address: Main Road, Glencairn
Glencairn Tidal Pool offers a good portion of the beach enclosed within the walls of the tidal pool, providing a lovely stretch of golden sand. The pool itself is quite spacious, perfect for a proper swim, and there are rocks with pools to explore at low tide.
One of the highlights for me was that the beach is dog-friendly, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll or a jog with my four-legged friend. Additionally, the coastal walkway has been revamped, which really added to the overall charm of the area.
| Pro Tip: After enjoying the refreshing waters, don’t miss the chance to stroll through the charming subway walkway leading to Deep South Eatery. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in delicious sushi while soaking up the picturesque views of the Deep South. |
Kommetjie De Kom
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Address: Lighthouse Road, Cape Peninsula
Operating Hours:
- Open 24/7
The Kommetjie De Kom Tidal Pool is a serene swimming spot located along the catwalk with concrete steps and a handrail for easy access. This picturesque spot lies within sight of the famous Slangkop Lighthouse.
I noticed that the tidal pool is a favourite among kite-surfers and camping enthusiasts. The area is also great for picnics, with well-maintained grass patches and shade provided by Milkwood trees.
I was delighted to see an abundance of birdlife here. If you’re lucky, you might even spot flamingos gracefully wading in the shallow waters.
| Pro Tip: Aim to visit when the tide is between low and high, as this is when the pool is at its most inviting. Low tide can leave the pool less than full, so timing your visit with the tides is key to enjoying this natural wonder. |
Maiden’s Cove
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Address: Clifton
When I visited Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool, I was impressed by the stunning views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, the vast Atlantic Ocean, and the iconic Table Mountain.
The cove features two tidal pools, providing ideal spots for families and friends to enjoy leisurely days out. The pools are surrounded by picturesque landscapes and offer facilities for braai and picnics.
This ocean-front relaxation spot is popular among swimmers, sunbathers, and diving enthusiasts. Additionally, Maiden’s Cove is conveniently located near amenities such as restaurants, bars, and free parking.
| Pro Tip: Plan your visit between June and December when you might spot dolphins and whales playing in the waves. |
Miller’s Point
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Address: Main Road, Simon’s Town
Miller’s Point Tidal Pool is a stunning, unspoiled natural wonder surrounded by remote beaches and a protected ocean lagoon. It’s part of Table Mountain National Park and a prime spot for whale watching from July to November.
I’ve enjoyed exploring the natural rock pools, which are perfect for a bit of adventure. If you’re into water sports like I am, Miller’s Point is fantastic for kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving, and boating.
The facilities here are pretty convenient too. I’ve made use of the braai pits for a relaxed barbecue and found a lovely picnic spot to enjoy my lunch.
The changing rooms are handy after a day of swimming and exploring.
| Pro Tips: Bring your binoculars and waterproof camera to capture the marine big 5, as dolphins, penguins, and seals are often spotted in the vibrant False Bay waters.Don’t miss the nearby Partridge Point, Castle Rock, and Smitswinkel Bay, renowned as some of Cape Town’s most spectacular dive sites. |
Milton
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Address: Beach Road, Sea Point
The Milton Tidal Pool, located at Milton Beach, is a safe and family-friendly spot for swimming and playing.
The natural seawater tidal pool has easily accessible, shallow, cool waters, making it ideal for kids and families. It’s separated from the sea by a rocky shelf, providing a safe swimming environment.
I’ve had a great time searching for small sea creatures and soaking up the sun at this spot. The parking areas and drinking fountains make it easy to enjoy a picnic with family and friends, and the convenience of these facilities really adds to the experience.
| Pro Tip: Head here where the vibrant hues of the Cape Town sunset create a breathtaking panorama. |
Monwabisi
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Address: Off Baden Powell Drive, Khayelitsha
Monwabisi is the largest man-made tidal pool in the southern region. It’s a popular spot for Khayelitsha residents, especially in the summertime when it gets quite crowded.
I’ve visited Monwabisi several times, and I always appreciate how the cliffs along the seafront act as a natural wind barrier, making it a great spot for a swim. There are also convenient paddling pools and a pavilion nearby where you can relax.
As a wildlife enthusiast, I’ve spotted a range of birds here, including speckled mousebirds, black-shouldered kites, rock kestrels, and the Cape spurfowl. If you enjoy birdwatching, Monwabisi is definitely worth a visit.
| Pro Tip: Pack your braai essentials to savour a seaside barbecue and don’t forget a cosy picnic blanket for relaxation. Keep some cash handy for the kiosk, ensuring you can indulge in a snack without any hassle. |
Saunders’ Rock
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Address: 0A Beach Rd, Bantry Bay
Saunders’ Rock Tidal Pool is a small, hexagonal tidal pool on the Sea Point Promenade. It’s a very safe tidal pool for children, as there are no powerful waves or rip currents, but keep in mind that the pool is quite deep.
During my visit, I appreciated how the surrounding granite rocks kept the area calm and provided a nice view of the ships passing by.
The sandy area around the pool is great for lounging, and there are smaller paddling pools for little ones.
| Pro Tip: Weekends can be very busy. Consider visiting on a weekday when there are fewer people, which is great for a relaxing post-work swim with the family. |
Soetwater
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Address: Soetwater Resort, Lighthouse Rd, Kommetjie
Soetwater Tidal Pool, also known as the “Infinity Pool,” is a hidden gem if you’re looking for a relaxed beach spot near Cape Town. Located within the Soetwater Resort, it’s a great place to enjoy some quiet time by the water.
I visited recently and found it to be a clean, calm spot with a separate area for kids. There are also lawns and braai areas around, so you can have a picnic or cook a meal while you’re there.
The rocky shoreline and kelp-strewn beaches make it a pleasant place for a bit of beachcombing or rockpooling. Just make sure to go in the morning and on a day when it’s not too windy for the best experience.
| Pro Tip: If Soetwater is too crowded, consider visiting the nearby De Kom Tidal Pool as a great, free alternative, especially at mid- and high tide. |
St. James
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Address: The Pavilion, Beach Road
St. James Tidal Pool is the most famous and popular tidal pool in Cape Town. It’s the one you always see on postcards with its colourful changing huts.
My favourite part during my visit was the sheltered, family-friendly beach, perfect for sunbathing and kids to play. Surfers also love the rolling waves, which are great for various skill levels.
The colourful Victorian-style bathing huts stand out against the blue waters. That and children playing in the sand create a picturesque scene reminiscent of an Enid Blyton novel.
| Pro Tips: Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant “Meet the Locals” mural by The Beach Co-op, a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of our coastal ecosystems. |
Strandfontein
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Address: New Strandfontein Road, Mitchells Plain
Strandfontein is known for having the largest tidal swimming pool in Southern Africa, which is a major highlight of the area. This spacious pool is ideal for families, offering a safe and fun spot for kids to enjoy the water.
When I visited, I noticed that the pool is well-maintained, and there are lifeguards on duty, which really adds to the sense of security.
The area around the pool is often lively with various events and entertainment, making it a great place to spend a day. There’s also a public pavilion where you can relax and take a break from swimming.
| Pro Tips: Head to Kommetjie restaurant nearby for stunning sea views and a safe spot for the kids to play, all while you savour their signature beer-battered fish and chips. |
Wooley’s
Address: Off Main Rd, Kalk Bay
Wooley’s Tidal Pool has two pools: a shallow splash pool and a deeper pool for experienced swimmers. The tidal pool is 303 square metres and is located between Kalk Bay and Clovelly.
Though there aren’t any public facilities or a beach, I found that families love this spot.
The shallow waters and tranquil atmosphere make it ideal for kids. I spent some time lounging on the flat rocks beside the pool, keeping a watchful eye on the children as they played.
| Pro Tips: Remember that the stones may be slippery, so tread carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. |
