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Top 15 Unforgettable Water Adventures in South Africa
From the iconic shores of Cape Town to the wild waters of the Indian Ocean, South Africa offers thrilling options for water enthusiasts.
Read our guide to discover South Africa’s best water adventures, from thrilling surfing to scenic kayaking, promising an unforgettable aquatic experience.
Whale Watching
Whale watching is a popular activity in South Africa, especially in places like Gans Bay and Hermanus where you might witness a whale giving birth. You can head to places like Gans Bay and Hermanus for some awesome shore-side whale spotting.
Southern right whales, along with Bryde’s and humpback whales, can be spotted near Cape Town. The best time to watch whales is from July to December, with the best chance to see southern right whales between August and November.
| Where to Go Whale-Watching in South Africa 1. Southern Right Charters Website: https://www.southernrightcharters.co.za/whale-watching/ Phone: +27 (0)82 353 0550 Southern Right Charters offers daily whale-watching tours, lasting 1.5 to 3 hours, departing from Hermanus New Harbour. You’ll get first a briefing, and hop on their catamaran with a skilled crew, a guide, and a videographer for memorable moments. 2. Ivanhoe Sea Safaris Website: https://whaleviewing.co.za/ Phone: +27 82 926-7977 Ivanhoe Sea Safaris is a leading whale-watching choice in South Africa. You’ll explore Walker Bay with us on a full-day tour, including coastal drives, garden visits, penguin colonies, and a 2-hour whale-watching boat trip. 3. Dyer Island Cruises Website: https://www.whalewatchsa.com/# Phone: +27 (0)82 801 8014 Dyer Island Cruises, just a 3-hour drive from Cape Town, gives you the best shot at spotting the Marine Big 5 on their 5-star whale watching boat, Dreamcatcher. With expert guides and comfy digs, it’s a wildlife-packed adventure for the whole family. |
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great workout, and South Africa offers fantastic spots in dams, rivers, and oceans. Popular spots include Mouillé Point, Sea Point, and Clifton, especially for breathtaking sunset views.
For a more unique experience, paddle past Boulder’s Beach to witness penguins in their natural habitat. And if you’re up for stunning scenery, consider a kayaking tour in the Storms River Mouth along the Garden Route.
| Where to Go Kayaking in South Africa 1. Kayak Cape Town Website: https://kayakcapetown.co.za/ Phone: +27 83 346 1146 Kayak Cape Town to Boulders Beach, a 2-hour paddle with penguins in False Bay. You don’t need any experience for this kayaking adventure, and in winter, you can enjoy calm days and the chance to spot whales. 2. Cape Kayak Adventures Website: https://kayak.co.za/ Phone: +27 82 926-7977 Cape Kayaks Adventures offers a 2-hour kayak experience with awesome views of Table Bay’s coastline, including Signal Hill and Table Mountain. Conveniently located at Three Anchor Bay, it’s a must-do water activity with a chance to spot dolphins. 3. Kaskazi Kayaks Website: https://kaskazi.co.za/ Phone: +27 82 609 6848 or +27 83 230 2726 Kaskazi Kayaks in Cape Town offers a two-hour kayaking adventure from Three Anchor Bay Beach. You’ll enjoy stable seas year-round and the chance to spot Heaviside’s dolphins as you paddle towards Granger Bay or Bantry Bay. |
Surfing
South Africa is a surfing paradise with great conditions all year. Legendary spots along the coast attract surfers globally.
The best time to go is December to February with pleasant temperatures, or winter for massive waves from June to August. Top spots include Jeffrey’s Bay in the Eastern Cape and Muizenberg near Cape Town.
| Where to Go Surfing in South Africa 1. Stoked School of Surf Website: https://www.stokedsurfschool.com/ Phone: +27 82 412 8781 Stoked School of Surf, hanging out in Camps Bay, Cape Town since 2009, is all about spreading the surf vibe. Nestled close to one of Cape Town’s finest beaches, get ready for loads of wind, waves, and epic surf action. 2. Umzumbe Surf Camp Website: https://www.umzumbesurfcamp.com/ Phone: +27 73 536 8728 Since 2013, Umzumbe Surf Camp has been providing lessons and rentals with awesome waves suitable for all levels. You can get a one-hour lesson any day you want – they provide all you need, and the focus is on you reaching your surf goals. 3. Gary’s Surf School Website: https://garysurf.com/ Phone: +27 21 788 9839 Gary’s Surf School, at Surfer’s Corner in Muizenberg, Cape Town, has been a premier surf camp since 1989. With daily lessons, professional trainers, and small groups, you can enhance your surfing skills in just two hours. |
Shark Cage Diving
Shark cage diving is like the extreme sport of meeting giant white sharks face-to-face in South Africa. You wear a special diving suit and hop into a steel cage, which goes into the ocean.
From there, you can check out these huge sharks up close and really study them. It’s a thrilling adventure for those who love excitement in the water!
| Where to Go Shark Cage Diving in South Africa 1. White Shark Projects Website: https://www.whitesharkprojects.co.za/ Phone: +27 (0) 28 384 1418 White Shark Projects is a great group that cares about saving sharks and the ocean. They’re really good at eco-friendly shark cage diving, and they’ve won awards for the best eco-friendly tourism and community projects in South Africa. 2. White Shark Diving Company Website: https://www.sharkcagediving.co.za/ Phone: +27 82 559 6858 White Shark Diving Co excels in exclusive shark cage diving adventures in Gansbaai, Western Cape, South Africa. They offer private tours with limited seating for extra comfort and safety. 3. Apex Shark Expeditions Website: https://apexpredators.com/ Phone: +27 21 788 9839 Apex Shark is a licensed shark cage diving operator that offers daily trips to Seal Island, where you can encounter the majestic sharks in their natural habitat. You’ll also have the opportunity to see seals, dolphins, whales, and penguins. |
Rafting
Rafting in South Africa is like trading a calm river ride for an exciting roller-coaster on the water. Here, you’ll find strong rivers that guarantee an adventure full of thrills for both newbies and pros.
With expert help, anyone can have a blast navigating challenging rapids for hours. It’s an adrenaline-packed journey surrounded by stunning nature.
| Where to Go Rafting in South Africa 1. Orange River Rafting Website: https://orangeriverrafters.co.za/ Phone: +27 76 606 5614 Orange River Rafters is the spot for awesome river rafting in South Africa. They’ve got guided adventures for everyone, from first-timers to pros, offering family-friendly fun with stunning views of mountains and wildlife. 2. Parys River Rafting Website: https://www.parysriverrafting.co.za/ Phone: 056 817 6638 / 072 749 8169 Parys River Rafting offers exciting rafting experiences along the Vaal River, combining thrills and natural beauty. It’s set in the beautiful dome heritage area in the wild waters conservancy just 7 km out of Parys and 100 km from Johannesburg. 3. Doring River Rafting with Gravity Adventures Website: https://gravity.co.za/doring-river/ Phone: 056 817 6638 / 072 749 8169 Parys River Rafting offers exciting rafting experiences along the Vaal River, combining thrills and natural beauty. It’s set in the beautiful dome heritage area in the wild waters conservancy just 7 km out of Parys and 100 km from Johannesburg. |
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding
Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is getting big in South Africa, quickly becoming a favourite water sport and exercise. It’s exciting, not like a routine, and you can pick up the basics easily, unlike surfing.
Also, some places offer lessons so you can start paddling over the water in no time. SUP is making a splash as a fun way to enjoy South Africa’s beautiful waters.
| Where to Go Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in South Africa 1. SUP Cape Town Website: https://supcapetown.co.za/ Phone: +27 71 603 8388 SUP Cape Town hooks you up with top-notch gear, featuring brands like Red Paddle Co. and Naish. You’re guaranteed a ride on one of the best boards when you visit their waterfront shop, conveniently close to the water. 2. SUP Fitness Website: http://supfit.co.za/ Phone: +27 82 571 1180 SUP Fitness in Randburg, South Africa, combines fitness with stand-up paddleboarding. You can do exercises on land or in the water, rent a board, take a beginner lesson, or have a fun SUP party with an instructor. 3. SUPSA Website: https://supsa.org.za/ SUPSA is like a one-stop shop for all things SUP in the country, helpful for paddlers from other places. They started a few years ago to keep things in check and have grown into a handy resource for paddlers all over South Africa. |
Snoek Fishing
Snoek fishing is a popular pastime in South Africa, known for its diverse fishing opportunities. These Mackerel-like fish are abundant in the Southern Hemisphere’s oceans.
Grilling up a freshly caught Snoek for a braai makes for an amazing dinner experience. You can find these fish along the Angola coast, all the way down to Mossel Bay, just 50km off the stunning Atlantic Ocean in South Africa.
| Where to Go Snoek Fishing in South Africa 1. Dullstroom On The Dam Website: https://dullstroomonthedam.co.za/ Phone: +27 61 762 3209 Dullstroom proudly holds the nickname of South Africa’s “fly fishing capital.” It’s home to one of the oldest dams in the area, known as Dullstroom On The Dam. For a fee of R150.00, you can snag a fishing permit and enjoy well-stocked dams, offering various fishing experiences like bank fishing, wading, or even tubing. 2. Laverpa Website: https://www.flyfishing.co.za/pages/laverpa-car Laverpa is a spot with three dams, only 10 minutes from the village on the way to Lynberg. They’ve got lots of rainbow and brown trout, and you can fish for the day for R280.00 plus a R200.00 key deposit. 3. Dunkeld Country and Equestrian Estate Website: https://www.dunkeldestate.co.za/resort-facilities/fly-fishing/ Phone: +27 10 300 8749 Dunkeld features 23 consistently stocked fly fishing dams suitable for anglers of all skill levels. Day visitors are charged a fee of R150.00, which includes the cost of the catch. |
Seal Snorkelling
Seal Snorkeling in South Africa is a fantastic alternative to shark cage diving, and we highly recommend trying it out. It’s suitable for everyone, even if you’ve never gone diving before.
All the necessary gear is provided, giving you the chance to swim alongside the gentle seals. Don’t worry about sharks; the cool Atlantic water keeps them away, leaving you to enjoy the experience with these friendly marine creatures!
| Where to Go Seal Snorkeling in South Africa 1. Dullstroom On The Dam Website: https://www.sealsnorkelingcapetown.co.za/ Phone: +27 82 497 8797 Seal Snorkeling Cape Town offers an exciting chance to dive into the underwater realm of Cape Fur seals. With all the gear and guidance provided, it’s a must for nature lovers and snorkelling enthusiasts, no matter your skill level. 2. Animal Ocean Website: https://www.animalocean.co.za/ Phone: +27 72 296 9132 Animal Ocean gives you an awesome holiday with their Seal Snorkeling in Cape Town. Their Snorkel Center in Hout Bay has great facilities like hot showers and private changing rooms. Their boats can take up to 10 snorkelers to Duiker Island, where you can have a blast with the lively Cape Fur seals, especially in Cape Town’s vibrant summer. 3. Cape Xtreme Adventure Tours Website: https://www.capextreme.com/inventory/seal-snorkeling Phone: +27 82 497 8797 Cape Xtreme Adventure Tours offers an unforgettable seal snorkelling experience. You don’t have to worry about the hassle of scuba diving; they provide everything needed, including a wetsuit, mask, snorkel, fins, and a brief training session. |
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving in South Africa is a unique experience with diverse options. From reef to shallow shore and wreck dives, Cape Town’s cold waters cater to all skill levels.
If you’re a beginner, no problem – there are certified diving classes in town. They’ll teach you everything you need to explore the wonders beneath the Cape Town coastline.
| Where to Go Scuba Diving in South Africa 1. Aliwal Shoal Website: https://aliwalshoal.co.za/ Phone: +27 (0) 39 973 2233 Aliwal Shoal, situated 5 kilometres off Umkomaas and a quick half-hour drive from Durban, is an old sand dune now underwater. Popular for scuba diving, the Shoal has a variety of sea creatures, with Grey Nurse Sharks (locally called “raggies”) being a big attraction from July to November. You’ll also spot mantas, eels, stingrays, turtles, and lots of different fish. 2. Sodwana Bay with Coral Divers Website: https://coraldivers.co.za/ Phone: +27-33-345-6531 Sodwana Bay is an awesome place for scuba diving, like a paradise for underwater explorers. The ancient reef, around 80,000 years old, is home to over 1,200 kinds of fish, turtles, rays, and sharks. Seven Mile Reef in Sodwana is a popular spot with lots of different sea creatures and cool coral formations, making it a must-see for divers. 3. Knysna Heads with Oceans Africa Website: https://www.oceansafrica.com/dive-the-garden-route/ Phone: + 27 73 178 5462 At Knysna Heads, you can enjoy great diving in the lagoon and the open sea. Even though the weather can affect it, the lagoon usually has warm and calm water, especially during rough sea conditions. One cool dive spot is the Paquita wreck inside the Knysna Heads, with strong currents, lots of fish, and interesting underwater scenery. |
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing in South Africa is a blast, especially in Cape Town where you’ve got over 30 amazing spots to choose from. The variety here is like a buffet of kiteboarding experiences.
The weather and wind conditions are spot-on, and the waves and waters are just perfect for both pros and beginners. Cape Town is known globally as a kiteboarding hotspot, and there are plenty of schools ready to get you out on the water quickly!
| Where to Go Kitesurfing in South Africa 1. Coastline Kitesurfing Website: https://coastlinekitesurfing.com/ Phone: +27 74 0926 526 Coastline Kitesurfing, based in Cape Town Blouberg, offers an awesome experience. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, their certified school ensures you learn the skills for kitesurfing fun along the stunning South African coast.. 2. High Five Kitesurf School Website: https://high-five.co.za/ Phone: +27 72 902 7899 High Five Kitesurf School provides quality lessons for all levels, rents out top-notch gear, and offers guided downwinders along the stunning coastline. Whether in Blouberg or Langebaan, it’s the perfect spot for an exciting kitesurfing experience! 3. C-Kite Langebaan Website: https://www.ckite.co.za/ Phone: +27 (0)87 020 0123 C-Kite Langebaan, on Langebaan’s main beach in South Africa, is your go-to spot for kitesurfing. Perfect for all levels, they offer lessons, gear, and cool tours to explore the Cape West Coast. |
Jet Skiing
Jet skiing is a thrilling water activity in South Africa, enjoyed by people of all ages. Top destinations include Knysna Lagoon, the Golden Mile, Nahoon Beach, Vaal Dam, and Gariep Dam, each offering unique features.
To jet ski in South Africa, you’ll need a skipper’s licence and must follow safety rules. It’s a fun and exciting way to experience speed, freedom, and the beauty of nature on the water.
| Where to Go Jet Skiing in South Africa 1. Offshore Adventures Website: https://offshoreadventures.co.za/ Phone: +27 (0) 82 829 0809 Offshore Adventures provides jet skiing experiences in Plettenberg Bay, along the Garden Route. You can rent a wet bike or jet ski for 20 minutes on Central Beach in Plett, or opt for a guided trip with a qualified skipper. 2. Harties Watersports Centre Website: https://www.hartieswatersports.co.za/ Phone: 012 2532616 / 082 652 3140 Harties Watersport Centre in South Africa has fun jet ski rides at Hartbeespoort Dam. You just have to grab tickets at the boat office when you visit Harties Zoo for a quick 10 to 15-minute family ride on a Yamaha vx1100 wave runner. 3. Langebaan Jetski Website: https://langebaanjetski.co.za/ Phone: +27 72 155 2611 Langebaan Jetski Adventures offers thrilling 10 km guided jet ski rides on the beautiful Langebaan Lagoon, just an hour’s drive from Cape Town. It’s open to those 16 and older with no prior experience required. |
Cruising
Cruising in South Africa is a fantastic option if you’re not into active water sports. A great spot for a short cruise is the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Themed cruises like the Jolly Roger Pirate Ship and serene sunset cruises make it enjoyable.
For a breathtaking cruise, you can head to Knysna in the Garden Route, where sailing through the Knysna Heads is a must. Another excellent cruising spot is the East Coast of South Africa, especially for a hippo and Croc Cruise in St Lucia.
| Where to Go Cruising in South Africa 1. Boat and Sunset Cruises with Waterfront Boat Tours Website: https://waterfrontboattours.co.za/ Phone: +27 (0)21 419 8951 Waterfront Boat Tours in Cape Town brings you an unforgettable experience exploring the beauty of the city from the sea. You’ll cruise along the stunning coastline, feel the fresh sea breeze, and catch the waves on our boat tours. 2. Knysna Sunset Cruise Website: https://www.knysnacharters.com/sunset-cruise Phone: +27 (0) 82 892 0469 Knysna Charters offers a 90-minute sunset cruise on the Knysna Lagoon. Guests can relax and enjoy a beautiful African sunset while receiving complimentary coastal oysters and paired white wine. 3. Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise Website: https://advantagetours.co.za/tours/st-lucia/hippo-and-croc-boat-cruise/ Hippo and Crocodile St Lucia Cruise with Advantage Cruiser lets you explore the St Lucia Estuary on a comfy flat-bottomed boat. You’ll marvel at hippos, crocs, and fish eagles as you cruise about 7 km, getting amazing shots of wildlife along the way. |
Swimming
Swimming is huge in South Africa, a favourite family activity when it’s warm. With rivers, dams, and the ocean, there are plenty of places to take a dip.
Many homes have pools, and swimming is a popular sport with a rich history of achievements. It’s not just about medals; swimming is a crucial life skill, and our beaches offer beautiful spots for a swim.
| Where to Go Swimming in South Africa 1. Muizenberg Beach Muizenberg Beach stands out as the go-to spot for swimming in Cape Town, thanks to its warmer waters along the Indian Ocean. It’s a charming destination with colourful beach huts, history to explore, and a variety of restaurants to enjoy. 2. Morgan Bay Morgan Bay, once a secret spot in South Africa, is now a popular beach on the Wild Coast, just an hour from East London. With safe swimming and beautiful surroundings, it’s a charming getaway with lush greenery and inviting waters. 3. Umzumbe Langebaan Jetski Adventures offers thrilling 10 km guided jet ski rides on the beautiful Langebaan Lagoon, just an hour’s drive from Cape Town. It’s open to those 16 and older with no prior experience required. |
Wakeboarding
Wakeboarding is a rad water sport where you ride a board towed by a boat or cable system. South Africa’s got it going on for wakeboarding with its awesome dams and lakes.
The South African Waterski and Wakeboard Federation handles the wakeboarding scene, organising events and keeping things in check. Plus, it’s eco-friendly in South Africa – cable parks use renewable energy, saving fuel.
| Where to Go Wakeboarding in South Africa 1. Blue Rock Website: https://www.bluerock.co.za/ Phone: (+27) 21 858 1330 Blue Rock in South Africa is the spot for an awesome wakeboarding adventure. Nestled near Somerset West and Gordon’s Bay, it’s got a massive obstacle course and can host up to 10 riders at a time, cruising at around 30 km/h. 2. Umtamvuna River Lodge Website: https://www.theriverlodge.co.za/activities Phone: +27 61 414 8889 At Umtamvuna River Lodge, you can enjoy wakeboarding on the scenic Umtamvuna River, which offers calm and clear water, stunning views and abundant wildlife. You can rent a boat and equipment, or bring your own. You can also join a wakeboarding lesson or a guided tour with a professional instructor. 3. WaterSports Warehouse Website: https://www.watersportswarehouse.co.za/product/waterski-wakeboard-lessons/ Phone: +27-21-555 3164 or 082 706 7476 WaterSports Warehouse offers lessons in Waterskiing, Slalom skiing, Wakeboarding, and Wakesurfing. Whether individuals are beginners or looking to refine their skills, WaterSports Warehouse helps them ride like pros. Their goal is to have participants up and riding on their first lesson, but everyone learns at their own pace, so no guarantees can be made. |
Tubing
Tubing in South Africa is a thrilling water activity set against the backdrop of scenic landscapes. You can relax on big tubes in calm waters or get a thrill by being pulled by a jet ski or boat through river rapids.
In places like Cape Town and the Western Cape, you’ll see amazing views of Table Mountain and beautiful Winelands. Along the Garden Route in Knysna, there are lakes and rivers for a cool tubing adventure with awesome scenery.
| Where to Go Tubing in South Africa 1. Blackwater Tubing Website: https://www.blackwatertubing.net/ Phone: +27 (0)42 281 1757 Blackwater Tubing in Storms River is the go-to spot for tubing in Tsitsikamma. You can pick between the 6-hour Tubing Canyon Adventure or the 3-hour Tubing SUP Forest combo, both with meals included. 2. Tapimanzi Adventures Website: https://www.teambuildadventures.co.za/ Phone: 08 2577 0382 or 016 423 7982 Tapimanzi Adventures offers tubing trips on the Vaal River in Gauteng. You can escape the city and join Tapimanzi’s adventure experts for a tubing experience in the beautiful highveld scenery, just an hour away from Johannesburg. 3. Magoebaskloof Adventures Website: https://magoebaskloofadventures.co.za/ Phone: +27 83 866 1546 Magoebaskloof Adventures is your go-to spot for tubing and more, nestled between Polokwane and Tzaneen. Perfect for Kruger Park breaks or a day of adventure, it’s where mountains meet rivers in a picturesque setting. |
