Despite the water shortage, Cape Town remains a source of enjoyment for travellers worldwide and domestic flights South Africa haven’t slowed down either.

Visitors to the Cape Peninsula are lucky to have access to a wealth of tidal pools all along the coast. These sources of refreshment are brimming with enjoyment and located in secluded spots where you are assured of a tranquil swim or picnic on the shores.

Let’s take a look at some of these natural resources available to you once you land from your cheap flight to Cape Town.

Maiden’s Cove

Here among landscaped lawns and granite boulders, you will find two tidal pools. The first is tiny and only fills up during high tide, while the second is a popular source of refreshment all day long. Maiden’s cove has dedicated braai areas and loads of parking. You will find Maiden’s Cove secluded between Camp’s Bay and Clifton.

Milton

The Milton Beach tidal pool offers a welcome respite from the buzz of Sea Point’s promenade and provides gorgeous sunset views in the late afternoon.

Post-dip cocktails: If you prefer to enjoy a sundowner on dry land, head for the nearby Harvey’s at the Winchester Mansions Hotel.

Saunders Rock

Sheltered from the wind by attractive granite boulders, this paddling pool offers a refreshing break that is every bit as luxurious as surrounding Camps Bay.

Camps Bay

Located just off Camps Bay’s busy tourist strip, this tidal pool is a favourite for families wanting to escape the crowds.

Ice treats: After your swim, treat the children (and yourself) to a sweet treat at Gelato Maria on Victoria Road.

Soetwater

Watched over by the Slankop Lighthouse, Soetwater has two shallow tidal pools with glorious views over the ocean. This tidal pool is sheltered in an isolated spot between Noordhoek and Kommetjie.

Fishy eats: For a quick bite after your dip, head for Fisherman’s in Kommetjie. Here you can enjoy traditional fish and chips in a shady courtyard after your exertions.

Cape Point

Buffels Bay offers a crowd-free option for relaxation with picnic and braai areas. Just a short drive away, Bordjiesdrif is a popular fishing spot with grassy braai areas. Both of these tidal pools are inside the Cape Point Nature Reserve which means you can make a day of it exploring the wilderness after or before your swim. Park fees apply.

Glencairn

When the south-easterly winds die down Glencairn Tidal Pool is a picturesque place to take a dip with turquoise waters and a gorgeous beach that flows right into the pool. This family- and dog-friendly beach is perfect for a day out close to Simon’s Town.

Miller’s Point

Miller’s Point is a popular whale watching site as well as the perfect spot for kayakers, snorkelers and scuba divers on the north side of Simon’s Town. This area remains relatively undiscovered by tourists and is a great place for the family to spend some time. There are small rock pools for paddling and a fun slide for the youngsters.

Post-Swim: On another section of the beach, you’ll find the Black Marlin seafood restaurant where you can indulge in a post-swim treat fi you aren’t enjoying a picnic on the shores.

Woolley’s Tidal Pool

One of Kalk Bay’s smaller pools, Woolley’s tidal pool has both a shallow and a deep end, making it a good spot to visit with children. You can access it via a staircase that passes under the railway between Kalk Bay and Clovelly.

Dalebrook

This small deep pool nestled between St James and Kalk Bay is considered a local treasure by the Kalk Bay population. The low wall on the edge of this pool allows for it to be topped up by fresh water throughout the day and gives it the appearance of merging seamlessly with the ocean.

Whale watching: This tidal pool is another excellent spot to see whales in the area.

St James

This beach with its iconic coloured change houses close to the suburb of St James is one of Cape Town’s most popular. The beach is well-known for its family friendly vibe and a great place to take the kids for a swim. It can get busy in the summer time so arrive early to secure your spot.

Kalk Bay

These two large tidal pools within a stone’s throw of the popular Brass Bell restaurant are great for those who like to get in their laps every day.

Get There

While the swimming pools may be emptied in sympathy with the water crises, the fun always goes on in Cape Town. The ocean offers ample opportunity for enjoyment during your visit and the Cape’s collection of serene tidal pools provide all the same benefits of a naturally sustainable swimming pool which are not about to run out of water.

Cape Town remains South Africa’s premier holiday destination. Start planning your trip now by browsing online to compare flight availability and to ensure that you get the cheapest domestic flights South Africa has to offer.