Best Seasons for Diving in Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the world’s premier shallow-water snorkelling and diving destinations, renowned for its vibrant marine life and dramatic landscapes. However, its nickname, the “Cape of Storms,” raises the question: when are the best times to experience optimal diving conditions in South Africa? Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of diving in Cape Town across the seasons.
Year-Round Diving Opportunities
Cape Town offers excellent diving conditions throughout the year, thanks to the Cape Peninsula’s unique geography. The peninsula acts as a buffer against swells, with the Atlantic Seaboard (Cape Town’s western side) and False Bay (Simon’s Town’s eastern side) experiencing contrasting conditions. In winter (April–September), northwesterly winds batter the Atlantic Seaboard, while False Bay remains protected. In summer (October–March), southeasterly trade winds stir up False Bay, but the Atlantic Seaboard enjoys calm, clear waters as offshore winds trigger upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water.
Cape Town’s waters are influenced by two major ocean currents: the warm, fast-moving Agulhas Current, which brings clear water from Mozambique down South Africa’s southeast coast, and the cool, nutrient-rich Benguela Current, flowing up the west coast to Angola. In summer, onshore winds often push the warm Agulhas Current into False Bay, creating warm, clear conditions when winds subside.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
November to February (Summer)
This is Cape Town’s peak summer season. After prolonged southeasterly winds, clear water upwells along the Atlantic Seaboard, though water temperatures range from 8°C to 12°C (47°F–53°F). False Bay, meanwhile, enjoys warmer waters, often exceeding 20°C (68°F). Atlantic Seaboard diving offers less fish diversity but features stunning shallow-water noble corals and crystal-blue waters, creating a unique experience. Book a Kelptown snorkel experience to explore these vibrant ecosystems.
March to May (Autumn)
Autumn is my favourite season for diving in Cape Town. Cooling temperatures and calmer winds create excellent conditions on both sides of the peninsula. However, early winter storms may occasionally disrupt plans. This season offers a balance of warm waters and biodiversity, ideal for snorkelling or diving.
June to August (Winter)
Winter brings cool, blustery weather and shorter days, with Cape Town receiving most of its rainfall. Despite topside challenges, northwesterly winds blow offshore in False Bay, allowing clear water to upwell and providing protection from southwesterly storms. This makes False Bay the prime diving spot during winter, with rich marine life encounters. Water temperatures range from 12°C - 16°C (53°F–60°F)
September to October (Spring)
Spring transforms Cape Town with blooming wildflowers along the West Coast and Table Mountain’s fynbos. Longer days and lighter winds create exceptional diving conditions in False Bay, where most winter rainfall has subsided. Humpback whales are often spotted feeding close to shore, adding excitement.
Plan Your Snorkel with Kelptown
Whether you’re chasing clear waters in summer or whale sightings in spring, Cape Town’s diving seasons offer something for everyone. Ready to explore the Great African Seaforest? Book your snorkel adventure with Kelptown and dive into Cape Town’s underwater wonders.