The 14 best tidal pools in Cape Town

The secret, unfortunately, is out, and what was once a haven for in-the-know locals has become one of the most popular spots for a dip on the False Bay coastline. Set in the seaside suburb of Kalk Bay, Dalebrook is a pool for all types, from kids who splash in the shallows or leap off the central rocks, to local grannies who come for the chat as much as the swim. It’s a sizeable pool though, so there’s always space to join the few who come to pace out a few laps. It’s a perfect stop on a Cape Point road trip, but equally worthy as a destination on its own. Warm up afterwards with coffee and breakfast from the delightful Dalebrook Café.

Another local favourite, particularly post-Covid, the Camps Bay tidal pool draws locals and tourists as much for the glorious views of the 12 Apostles (the mountain range behind) as the sunset views. But don’t come expecting a balmy dip: the water here is, um, let’s call it ‘bracing’. There’s a lively local crowd here, so bring a towel to suntan on the beach and catch up on local goss’, before you head for brunch or cocktails at the busy restaurants of Camps Bay.

Want to make a day of it, and hang with the locals? Head for St. James. The colourful beach huts here are one of the most iconic sights on the False Bay coastline, but it’s the large tidal pool and sandy beach that make it a gem, especially for families. The colourful beach huts offer space for changing, while the rumble of passing trains on the scenic coastal line is the soundtrack to a fine day out at the beach.

Want to make a day of it? Just the other side of Camps Bay proper – drive Victoria Road past the chi-chi bars and chic restaurants – you’ll come to Maiden’s Cove. This municipal picnic ground offers grassy lawns and built-in braai spots, with sea swimming spots (for the brave) and two wonderful tidal pools set between towering granite boulders. With views to Camps Bay and the peaks of the Table Mountain National Park, it’s easily one of Cape Town’s most beautiful tidal pools. It gets very busy on summer weekends though, so aim for mid-week if you can.

At the western end of the Sea Point Promenade, almost hidden amid the granite boulders, is this slip of a pool that is perfect for a quick dip after a day’s adventuring in the city. it’s a hexagonal gem that’s not easy to find, but well worth seeking out, as much for the glorious sea views as the eclectic collection of local swimmers that claim this as their own. But, all are welcome, and it’s an especially wonderful find mid-week when you might just have it all to yourself.

With the sparkling expanse of Sea Point Public Pool just along the Promenade, and the sunset-trendy Saunders Rock around the corner, it’s easy to overlook this little gem hiding in plain sight on Milton Beach. Built in 1910, the Milton tidal pool is one of the oldest in the city, and what it lacks in size, it makes up for in family-friendly charm. Protected from the worst of the Atlantic swells, its small size makes it ideal for kids, who can explore the sandy shallows and splash about in safety. The beach gets busy in the summer, so get there early to bag a spot. There’s also very little shade, so a beach umbrella is recommended.

We’re stretching the boundaries of Cape Town a little with this one, but this one is worth the drive. To get to Sparks Bay, you’ll leave Gordon’s Bay on the oh-so-scenic Clarence Drive – one of our favourite day-trips from Cape Town – and drive 15 kilometres. This could take an hour, given the gorgeous views and plentiful viewpoints. But maybe do that on the way back, as you’ll want to get to Sparks Bay early to claim your spot. It’s a popular braai destination, but because of the shells and rocks on the shore, a camp chair and umbrella will be your friend here. Down at the water’s edge, you’ll find a large pool with a sandy beach that leads into a gently sloping pool that’s large enough for a few laps. Serai Dowling’s excellent guide also warns of the risk of sea urchins on the wall and bottom, so it’s best to wear protective shoes.  

This one takes a little effort, but it’s oh-so-worth-it. Take the coastal road out of Simon’s Town, and follow the signs to Miller’s Point. There, between the two boat launching sites, you’ll find a vast pool that features a shallow section for kids, a fun slide (for kids young and old) and a wide-open pool for doing a few lazy laps. There are grassy picnic and braai sites nearby, but do watch out for the resident baboons who will think nothing of stealing your sarmies.

No time to drive all the way to Miller’s Point? No problem. Follow the beautiful coastal road from Kalk Bay to Fish Hoek and on to Glencairn where, just below the train station, you’ll find this gem of a pool. While the beach may often be wild, this surprisingly large pool is magical just about any day of the year. And, as a bonus, there’s a sizeable beach within the tidal pool, so you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds. When you’re done swimming, head back through the subway walkway for a bite at the delightful Deep South Eatery and the best sushi with a view in the Deep South.

If a decent meal is as important as a dip, then be sure to stop in at the Brass Bell Tidal Pool. Set slap-bang in the heart of Kalk Bay (a boho-chic suburb packed with charming eateries and boutiques worth a browse) the Brass Bell Restaurant is an institution in these parts, with a choice of bars and causal eateries spread across different levels. And, out front, the wide tidal pools tempt diners to have a splash while they wait for their starters. Inside intel? The pools are open to the public, even if you’re not a restaurant patron, so don’t feel shy about stopping in for a swim.

OK, we’re giving away something of a local secret here, so don’t be surprised if the residents of Fish Hoek are outraged that we’ve included this little gem on this list. ‘Skellies’ is a natural tidal pool, formed by the granite boulders that frame the southern edge of Fish Hoek bay. To reach Skellies walk along the seaside Jager’s Walk from the main beach, or across the railway bridge at the Sunny Cove station. Skellies is about halfway between the two. It’s a tiny pool this, but perfect for a lazy dip or for kids to entertain themselves. It’s best on a falling tide, when the pool is full but the waves won’t bother you.

This thoroughly local pool doesn’t attract many visitors, but that’s part of the charm. It’s set along the wild Atlantic coastline just down the road from the Slangkop lighthouse (worth a visit if it’s open) and an easy diversion from a return visit to Cape Point. It’s likely to be quiet on weekdays, while weekends draw a crowd of local families who come as much for the pool as the public picnic and braai areas on offer.  

If you’re making the journey south to discover Cape Point Nature Reserve, set aside an hour for a dip at Buffels Bay, on the western side of the reserve. It’s a quiet corner of Cape Point, rarely visited by the tourist hordes heading only for the lighthouse and gift shop, which means you’ll enjoy a wild swimming experience at the wide tidal pool set alongside the lawns and picnic sites. If you’re feeling adventurous, the rocky shoreline features plenty of natural pools too, that are worth exploring if you have time to spare. As with Miller’s Point, be aware of mischievous baboons and don’t leave food unattended.

This is a little gem that takes a bit of effort to find. Leaving Kalk Bay on the Main Road, pull off into the designated street parking areas about 500 metres past the harbour entrance. Look for the stairs down from the roadway and you’ll find this lovely little pool that has all the charm of Dalebrook, with none of the crowds. There’s a separate shallow section for kids, and a deeper area for adults to have a proper dip. The views out over False Bay are superb, and in season (July-November) you might spot Southern Right whales.