Top Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Locations in Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

1. Cape Point

A nature reserve offering breathtaking cliffs and abundant marine life for snorkeling.

Unique Marine Life: Encounter Cape Fur Seals, Kelp Forests, and various species of fish.
Stunning Landscapes: Experience the dramatic cliffs and coastal views while snorkeling.
Accessibility: Easy access from Cape Town with guided tours available.

Home to a colony of African Penguins and clear waters for snorkeling.

Penguin Colony: Get up close with these charismatic birds on land and observe them swimming underwater.
Shore-based Snorkeling: No boat required for this unique snorkeling experience.
Family Friendly: Perfect for families with children who can enjoy the beach and wildlife together.

Adventurous experience involving close encounters with Great White Sharks.

Thrilling Encounter: Get face to face with one of the ocean's top predators in a safe and controlled environment.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Support responsible and ethical shark cage diving operators.
Seasonal Availability: Plan your trip during the best months for shark sightings (August to November).

Popular spot for scuba diving with a variety of dive sites and marine life.

Wreck Dives: Explore sunken ships like the SAS Pezula wreck.
Marine Reserve Protection: Dive in protected marine reserves with abundant sea life.
Beach Activities: Combine your diving adventure with relaxation on beautiful beaches.

Location of the most southerly point in Africa, offering dive sites with diverse marine life.

Rare Species Sightings: Spot species like the Blue Shark and Manta Rays.
Cape Agulhas Lighthouse: Visit this iconic landmark while diving in the area.
Remote Location: Experience a less crowded, off-the-beaten-path diving destination.

Stretch of coastline with popular dive sites like Millers Point and Pelican Point.

Cold & Warm Water Diving: Dive in both cold and warm water environments, depending on the season.
Historic Shipwrecks: Discover historical shipwrecks like the SS Kroonland.
Seasonal Migration: Plan your trip to see seasonal marine life migrations (October to December).

Isolated island with a large seal colony and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Seal Interaction: Swim amongst the playful Cape Fur Seals.
Clear Waters: Experience clear waters for excellent visibility while snorkeling.
Boat Trip: Take a boat trip to the island for the ultimate seal encounter.

Dive site offering cave exploration and marine life interaction.

Cave Diving: Explore the mysterious underwater caves of Mossel Bay.
Sea Life Interaction: Encounter various species like rays, sharks, and turtles.
Beach Activities: Enjoy other beach activities like surfing or hiking during your stay.

Historic site with snorkeling opportunities around its coastline.

Historical Significance: Dive near the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.
Marine Life Variety: Enounter a variety of marine life while snorkeling around the island.
Cultural Experience: Combine your diving adventure with a visit to the Robben Island Museum.

Mass migration of sardines attracting predators like dolphins, sharks, and whales.

Natural Phenomenon: Witness one of nature's most spectacular events, the Sardine Run.
Boat-based Activity: Join a boat tour to observe the migration and its predators.
Timing: Plan your trip during the Sardine Run season (May to June).

Freshwater and saltwater convergence offering a unique diving experience.

Unique Eco-system: Experience the meeting of fresh and saltwater, creating a unique environment.
Wildlife Spotting: Spot various wildlife like otters, crocodiles, and fish in the area.
Peaceful Setting: Enjoy a calm, peaceful diving environment away from busy tourist areas.

Dive site offering wreck dives and interaction with various marine life.

Wreck Diving: Explore sunken ships like the WWII shipwrecks in Algoa Bay.
Seasonal Migration: Plan your trip to see seasonal marine life migrations (October to December).
Coastal Activities: Combine your diving adventure with other coastal activities like surfing or fishing.

Urban location offering boat trips to dive sites and shark cage diving experiences.

Urban Diving Experience: Experience an urban diving adventure from the V&A Waterfront.
Variety of Activities: Enjoy other activities like shopping, dining, and entertainment at the V&A Waterfront.
Easy Access: Accessible from Cape Town's city center with a variety of boat tour operators.

Boat-based snorkeling experience with the playful Cape Fur Seals.

Seal Interaction: Swim amongst the playful Cape Fur Seals in crystal clear waters.
Boat Trip: Take a boat trip from Hermanus for this unique snorkeling experience.
Cultural Experience: Combine your snorkeling adventure with visiting the charming town of Hermanus.

Dive site offering seal interactions and wreck dives.

Seal Interaction: Encounter the playful Cape Fur Seals while diving in Hout Bay.
Wreck Diving: Explore sunken ships like the HMS Birkenhead wreck.
Beach Activities: Enjoy other beach activities like surfing or hiking during your stay.