Cape Town is known for its beautiful selection of splash-worthy tidal pools dotted around the coastline, here are our favourites you must visit this summer.
Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool
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Flanked by mountains, boulders, and the ocean, the larger of the two Maiden’s Cove pools offers a stunning backdrop for quality time with loved ones. After a refreshing swim, you can make use of the braai and picnic facilities while the kids build sandcastles and enjoy beach games. As it’s a popular spot, we recommend arriving early.
Where: Clifton, Cape Town
Camps Bay Tidal Pool
This tidal pool boasts stunning views of the beach and the Twelve Apostles, tucked away on the southern end of Camps Bay Beach. After a dip, wander along the Camps Bay strip to experience the restaurants, bars, and boutique shops.
Where: Victoria Road, Camps Bay
St James Tidal Pool
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With the iconic colourful bathing boxes as a backdrop, the St James tidal pool is a must-visit Cape Town gem, ideal for snapping a few envy-worthy photos. Sunrise and sunset swims are highly recommended, and there are nearby restaurants for a tasty bite afterward.
Where: Main Road, St James
Soetwater Tidal Pool
The two Soetwater pools in Kommetjie offer the perfect blend of swimming and socialising, with picnic and braai facilities just a stone’s throw away. The second pool is close to an environmental centre, ideal for school groups and families eager to learn about nature. Entry to the Soetwater Resort is affordable, with a minimal fee of R21 per adult, R7 for children aged 7-11, and free entry for those under 6.
Where: Lighthouse Road, Kommetjie
Silverstroom Tidal Pool
Located in the Silwerstroom Resort, just off Westcoast Road and around 13km north of Melkbosstrand, this spot is in an area rich in biodiversity. Once at the tidal pool, you can swim, braai, and picnic in this area.
Where: Silwerstroom Road, off the West Coast Road via R27
Wooley’s Tidal Pool
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This tidal pool, located along the coastal road between Kalk Bay and Clovelly, is perfect for swimming. There is a splash pool for kids and a dedicated area for adult swimmers. The views at this False Bay attraction are out of this world.
Where: Off Main Road, Glencairn, Kalk Bay
Glencairn Tidal Pool
The idyllic suburb of Glencairn, just 4km north of Simon’s Town, is home to the peaceful Glencairn tidal pool, frequented by swimmers, snorkellers, and sunbathers alike. This charming little suburb also boasts shops, restaurants and art galleries, making it the perfect spot to unwind and explore.
Where: Glencairn Beach, Glencairn
Buffels Bay Beach
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Located in Cape Point Nature Reserve, Buffel Bay’s tidal pool is perfect for summer weather. There’s a picnic area if you want to make a day of it. For those who enjoy scenic views, you can take in the cliffs and ocean vistas. You’ll need to pay the Cape Point entry fee to access the tidal pool, and if you’d rather not drive, the City Sightseeing bus travels to Cape Point.
Where: Cape Point, Cape Town
Dalebrook Tidal Pool
Undoubtedly one of Cape Town’s most popular tidal pools, Dalebrook is
set between the railway lines and the ocean. The water is slightly warmer here and the pool is mostly sheltered from the wind. Halfway between St James and Kalk Bay, there is plenty to see and do in the area.
Where: Off Main Road, Dalebrook
Saunders’ Rock Tidal Pool
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A popular spot for locals and international travellers, Saunders’ Rock Tidal Pool is ideal for post-work chill sessions and sunset views. Perfect for swimming and socialising.
Where: Sea Point Promenade, Beach Road, Sea Poin
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