Tidal Pools in the Cape
Cape Point Nature Reserve
There are 3 tidal pools in the Cape Point Nature Reserve:
· Buffels Bay
· Bordjiesrif
· Venus Pools
Google Map
Buffels Bay is probably the most popular tidal pool of the three as there are ablution facilities and a large picnic area.
You will need to walk to Venus Pools.
Cape Point is great for hiking, cycling, kayaking and boating. You can go for a coffee at the Visitor’s Centre and take the funicular up with all the other tourists. Another option is to book one of a couple of accommodation options. There is an amazing self-catering house right on the beach.
Gate entrance is free for Wild Card holders.
Camps Bay Tidal Pool
Victoria Road, Camps Bay opposite Primi Piatti
Google Map
This tidal pool is my local where I swim with an amazing group of friends. Go early in season and school holidays as it gets really busy. Enjoy coffee at Maison J, next to Pick & Pay afterwards.
Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool
Victoria Road, between Camps Bay and Clifton
Google Map
As you leave Camps Bay, look out for the Maiden’s Cove sign and take that road all the way down. There is a picnic area and you can have coffee at the Bungalow Restaurant depending on the time you go, they don’t open until later.
Saunders Tidal Pool
Beach Road between Bantry Bay and Seapoint
Google Map
The pool is tiny and can sometimes be very shallow. Have coffee at Step Brothers in Bantry Bay.
De Kom Tidal Pool
Lighthouse Road, Kommetjie
Google Map
In my opinion, I don’t think that it is a tidal pool at all. Our favourite place for coffee in the area is Espressodotkom
Soetwater Tidal Pool
Lighthouse Road, next to Kommetjie
Google Map
This tidal pool was not my favourite. You pay a small entrance fee and there are many picnic areas, ablution facilities and you can also camp. You will need to take your own gas stove and coffee or drive to Scarborough.
St James Tidal Pool
Main Road, St James
Google Map
Take your mask and snorkel, this tidal pool sometimes has some sea life to enjoy. Enjoy coffee at St James Café.
Miller’s Point Tidal Pool
Main Road, pass the turn-off to the Black Marlin Restaurant in the direction of Cape Point.
Google Map
A beautiful setting with the Pringle Bay and Rooi Els mountains far in the background. You will need to take your own coffee or pick up a take away at Olympia Café in Kalk Bay on the way. At the moment they have coffee for R10 before 9am.
Glencairn Tidal Pool
Main Road, Glencairn by the railway station
Google Map
There are beautiful views out to the ocean but as it is on Main Road and by the railway station, it is not exactly idyllic. Enjoy coffee at Blended Health Cafe afterwards.
Wooley’s Tidal Pool
Main Road between Kalk Bay and Clovelly
Google Map
A beautiful small pool, felt like a rather special place.
Dalebrook Tidal Pool
Dalebrook Road, Kalk Bay
Google Map
One of the most popular tidal pools. Enjoy coffee at Dalebrook Café across the road with all the other tidal pool swimmers.
Onrus
Davies’s Pool is near the caravan park in Onrus. There are steps going into the pool and some days it can be very shallow. On weekends in Summer there is a food truck selling ice cream and coffee.
