Among Cape Town‘s many natural beauty features are its tidal pools. It is safe and scenic to enjoy the ocean from these serene, man-made oases. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, tidal pools are a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Cape Town’s coastline. Featuring personal insights, practical tips, and all the information you need to plan a trip to Cape Town, this guide explores the 10 best tidal pools.
1. St James Tidal Pool
Location: St James, South Peninsula
Distance from Cape Town: 30 minutes
Why We Love It
St James Tidal Pool is Cape Town’s most iconic tidal pool, famous for its colorful Victorian-style bathing huts. It’s a postcard-perfect spot, ideal for families, sunbathers, and even surfers. The pool is sheltered from the wind, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the aqua-blue waters.
Personal Insight:
“I’ll never forget the first time I visited St James. The vibrant changing huts against the backdrop of the ocean felt like stepping into a storybook. It’s no wonder this spot is a favorite for photographers and Instagrammers!”
Key Features
- Family-friendly beach
- Wind-sheltered area
- Iconic bathing huts
- “Meet the Locals” mural by The Beach Co-op
Good to Know
- Best visited early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- The mural on the railway wall promotes eco-friendly practices.
Where to Find It:
Through the subway from St James Station, Main Road, or along the catwalk from Surfer’s Corner, Muizenberg.
2. Miller’s Point Tidal Pool
Location: Simon’s Town, South Peninsula
Distance from Cape Town: 50 minutes
Why We Love It
Miller’s Point is a hidden gem with stunning views, a waterslide, and natural rock pools. It’s a fantastic spot for whale-watching, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Personal Insight:
“The waterslide was a hit with my kids, and I loved exploring the rock pools at low tide. It’s a peaceful escape from the busier beaches.”
Key Features
- Waterslide into the pool
- Picnic and braai area
- Popular for whale-watching
Good to Know
- Watch out for baboons in the parking area.
- Entry fee: R18 (adults), R7 (children) on weekends and peak season.
Where to Find It:
About 5km out of Simon’s Town on the M4; turn left at the Cape Boat & Ski-Boat Club sign.
3. Glencairn Tidal Pool
Location: Glencairn, South Peninsula
Distance from Cape Town: 40 minutes
Why We Love It
Glencairn Tidal Pool is spacious and perfect for a proper swim. The golden sand and surrounding rocks make it a picturesque spot.
Personal Insight:
“I love how quiet Glencairn is compared to other beaches. It’s my go-to spot for a peaceful swim and a picnic with friends.”
Key Features
- Spacious pool for swimming
- Dog-friendly beach
- Coastal walkway
Where to Find It:
Main Road (M4), Glencairn, 5km from Fish Hoek.
4. Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pools
Location: Camps Bay, Atlantic Seaboard
Distance from Cape Town: 20 minutes
Why We Love It
Maiden’s Cove offers breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean. It’s a great spot for families and Instagrammers alike.
Personal Insight:
“Watching the sunset from Maiden’s Cove is magical. The pools are sheltered, and the views are unbeatable.”
Key Features
- Spectacular views
- Grassy area for picnics
- Popular for sunset watching
Where to Find It:
Victoria Road, between Glen Beach and Clifton 4th.
5. Soetwater Tidal Pool
Location: Kommetjie, South Peninsula
Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour
Why We Love It
Soetwater is a nature lover’s paradise, with unspoiled surroundings and a rustic charm.
Personal Insight:
“The kelp-strewn beaches and rocky shoreline make Soetwater feel wild and untouched. It’s a refreshing change from the city.”
Key Features
- Kiddies section in the pool
- Braai and picnic area
- Limited to 250 visitors per day
Good to Know:
- Entrance fee: R18 (adults), R7 (children).
- No alcohol permitted.
Where to Find It:
Soetwater, Den Anker Road, off Lighthouse Road, Kommetjie.
6. Wooley’s Tidal Pool
Location: Kalk Bay, South Peninsula
Distance from Cape Town: 35 minutes
Why We Love It
Wooley’s is a quieter alternative to St James, perfect for families with younger children.
Personal Insight:
“Wooley’s feels like a secret spot. The smaller pool is great for kids, and the flat rocks are perfect for lounging.”
Key Features
- Smaller, less crowded pool
- Ideal for younger children
Good to Know:
- No beach or facilities.
Where to Find It:
Via a staircase opposite 222 Main Road, Kalk Bay.
7. Saunders’ Rocks Tidal Pool
Location: Sea Point, Atlantic Seaboard
Distance from Cape Town: 20 minutes
Why We Love It
Saunders’ Rocks is a wind-free pool with stunning views of the ocean.
Personal Insight:
“I love the hexagonal shape of this pool. It’s a peaceful spot to watch the ships go by.”
Key Features
- Wind-sheltered
- Popular for sunset picnics
Where to Find It:
Beach Road, Sea Point.
8. Camps Bay Tidal Pool
Location: Camps Bay, Atlantic Seaboard
Distance from Cape Town: 20 minutes
Why We Love It
Camps Bay Tidal Pool is large and perfect for swimming laps. It’s also conveniently located near restaurants and cafés.
Personal Insight:
“After a morning run along the beachfront, a dip in this pool is incredibly refreshing.”
Key Features
- Large pool for swimming
- Close to restaurants
Where to Find It:
Victoria Road, just left of Camps Bay Beach.
9. Dalebrook Tidal Pool
Location: Kalk Bay, South Peninsula
Distance from Cape Town: 30 minutes
Why We Love It
Dalebrook is one of the most beautiful pools in False Bay, with a strong community spirit.
Personal Insight:
“The sunrise views at Dalebrook are unforgettable. It’s a special place to start the day.”
Key Features
- Outdoor shower and changing room
- Whale-watching spot
Where to Find It:
Subway entrance across from Dalebrook Cafe, 24 Main Road, Kalk Bay.
10. Buffels Bay Tidal Pool
Location: Cape Point Nature Reserve
Distance from Cape Town: 1.5 hours
Why We Love It
Buffels Bay is a wild and unspoiled beach with a safe tidal pool for children.
Personal Insight:
“The white sands and clear blue water make Buffels Bay feel like a hidden paradise.”
Key Features
- Two tidal pools
- Picnic and braai area
Good to Know:
- Entrance fee: R90 (adults), R45 (children).
Where to Find It:
20km from Simon’s Town on the M4; look for the left turn to Buffels Bay after passing the Buffelsfontein Visitors Centre.
FAQs
Q: Are tidal pools safe for children?
A: Yes, most tidal pools are safe for children, but always supervise them closely.
Q: Can I bring my dog to tidal pools?
A: Some tidal pools, like Glencairn, are dog-friendly, but others, like Miller’s Point, do not allow dogs.
Q: What is the best time to visit tidal pools?
A: Early mornings are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy the calm waters.
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location.
