Best time to visit Cape Town

Diving in Cape Town

With its corals, kelp beds, caves, seals and a plentitude of fish, diving in Cape Town will definitely leave the unforgettable impressions and memories

Best time: December–February

The great variety of the oceanic creatures and plants is a must-see for every scuba diving enthusiast. The summer season is the best for diving, since the waters are warmer and the visibility is better in the main diving spot False Bay, but diving is possible all-year round. The scuba diving in Cape Town, however, does not only mean watching the fish and corals nor even the splendid kelp forests! There are more than 2500 shipwrecks recorded in the area and many of them are diveable. They can be found as shallow as 5 metres and up to 60 metres depths or even more!

Practical info

What is the optimal period to go scuba diving in Cape Town?

Although scuba diving is possible all year round in Cape Town, the peak season is from December to February. This is ideal since the water is warmer, and you can see more. On the other hand, during the winter season, there are fewer people, and you can dive with seals. However, the thickness of the wetsuit is essential because of the cold temperature. Show more

Which is the primary diving location in Cape Town?

False Bay is the main diving spot in Cape Town, located on the east side of the Cape Peninsula. This vast bay is rich with marine life, including sponges, sea kelp, octopuses, and sometimes sharks. It is also popular for historic sunken ships, where divers can enjoy exploring them. Show more

What is the number of sunken space contained in Cape Town's dive locations?

Over 2500 sunken ships are recorded in the Cape Peninsula. Some of these sunken ships are visible from the shore, while others require a boat to reach. These sunken ships are scattered through the diveable spots and are home to different types of marine life, including starfish, colorful anemones, and fish. It provides an unforgettable experience for divers. Show more

What are the types of sea creatures can be witnessed while diving in Cape Town?

An enormous variety of marine life thrives in Cape Town's underwater world. Sharks like the seven gill and catsharks are common sightings. The area is also rich in colorful corals, kelp, sponges, and other fishes. In Hout Bay, there is a diving site where seals tend to interact with divers, leading to memorable experiences. Show more

Does scuba diving in Cape Town also cater to beginners?

Novice divers are welcome to join scuba diving activities in Cape Town. All levels of divers can take courses and training from several dive schools in the area, who provide personalized training. It is crucial to choose a reputable diving center with experienced instructors and obtain the appropriate certification before diving to prevent accidents while diving. Show more

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