Think snorkeling is only good in Bali, the Maldives, or Australia? Think again. Cape Town isn’t just the world’s best city in 2025 (officially, we might add), it’s also home to some of the most unique and eco-friendly snorkeling spots you’ll ever dip your fins into. Cold water? Sure. But it’s also packed with marine life, underwater kelp forests and even the chance to see penguins swim circles around you. Snorkelling spots in Cape Town maybe hidden gems or known treasures, but you have to experience them for yourself. Here’s where to go, what to expect, and how to snorkel responsibly.
Before we “dive in” you might want to snorkel Green
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Now we can snorkel!
Snorkelling spots in Cape Town with the best marine life
1. Windmill Beach – Snorkel with Penguins
Photo Credit: Pexels
Forget the crowded boardwalks at Boulders Beach. Just around the corner is Windmill Beach—same adorable penguins, way fewer people, and a shallow, calm bay that’s perfect for snorkeling. Expect to see curious African penguins zipping past, along with anemones, sea urchins, and even the occasional octopus. After all, it is one of the best snorkelling spots in Cape Town.
Pro Tip: The best time to go is early morning before the beach fills up. Also, penguins are cute but don’t touch them—those beaks mean business.
While You’re There: Grab some fish and chips in Simon’s Town or visit the naval museum if you’re feeling nerdy.
2. Miller’s Point – Snorkel in a Kelp Forest Wonderland
Photo Credit: Callum Evans
Ever wanted to feel like a mermaid (or merman) weaving through an underwater forest? Miller’s Point is your dream spot. The kelp forests here are insane—towering, swaying, and filled with shy pyjama sharks and spotted gully sharks (both completely harmless, promise).
Pro Tip: Visibility is best on days with little wind. Also, a wetsuit is your friend—the Atlantic doesn’t do ‘warm’.
While You’re There: Stop by the Miller’s Point tidal pool for a relaxing dip or explore the surrounding rock pools.
Snorkelling Spots in Cape Town – Hidden Gem Edition
3. Oudekraal – Snorkel in a Hidden Gem
Photo Credit: The Happy Traveller
This snorkelling spot in Cape Town is tucked away between Clifton and Llandudno. Oudekraal is part of Table Mountain National Park, which means protected waters and zero crowds. Think massive granite boulders, clear water, and loads of marine life. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a playful seal showing off.
Pro Tip: Bring cash—there’s a small conservation fee at the gate. Totally worth it.
While You’re There: Have a picnic at the braai (barbecue) spots or hike up to the Twelve Apostles viewpoint for insane ocean views.
Speaking of the Twelve Apostles Hotel, did you know you can get upgrades at that world’s best hotels + R5,000 in travel vouchers when you upgrade to Travelstart+
4. Sandy Cove – Snorkel in Another Hidden Gem
Photo Credit: Peter Marshall
Looking for a quiet spot that feels like a private snorkeling paradise? Sandy Cove is a hidden gem along the Atlantic Seaboard, offering crystal-clear water, plenty of colorful fish, and dramatic underwater rock formations. The cove’s sheltered location means calmer waters, making it perfect for all experience levels.
Pro Tip: Check tide times before you go—low tide is best for easy access and maximum visibility.
While You’re There: Walk along the coastal path toward Llandudno Beach for sunset views you won’t forget.
5. Smitswinkel Bay – Snorkel Off the Beaten Path
Photo Credit: Dougal Paterson
If you don’t mind a bit of a mission, Smitswinkel Bay will reward you with crystal-clear water, epic marine life, and an eerie shipwreck or two. It’s a bit of a trek down (and back up), but totally worth it for the peace, quiet, and untouched underwater scenery. Definitely one of the lesser visited but exceptionally good snorkelling spots in Cape Town.
Pro Tip: Bring everything you need—there are no shops, no facilities, and no lifeguards. It’s just you, the ocean, and maybe a few dassies watching from the rocks.
While You’re There: Drive a little further and check out Cape Point—because standing at the tip of Africa is pretty cool.
Now that you know the best snorkelling spots in Cape Town…
Are your fins ready?
Cape Town isn’t just a ‘pretty’ snorkeling spot—it’s a full-on marine experience. Whether you’re gliding through kelp forests, watching penguins, or getting up close with seals, there’s no other place quite like it. And the best part? You get to enjoy it while keeping the ocean as wild and untouched as it should be. If you care about ocean conservation, marine biodiversity and making sure your snorkeling adventures don’t wreck the planet, Cape Town is the place to do it.
See you in the waters of the best snorkelling spots in Cape Town. Just don’t forget to save the ocean and your bring your wetsuit, of course.
