Bakoven Rock - Cape Town & Western Cape

Bakoven Rock, just south of Camps Bay, offers a straightforward shore dive. We usually find big granite boulders here, creating some interesting swim-throughs and small caves to explore. It’s not a deep dive, typically staying in the 10-15 metre range, which makes it good for a relaxed swim-around. Keep an eye out for octopus tucked into crevices and various colourful nudibranchs on the rocks. While it won't blow your mind with massive schools, it’s a pleasant spot for a local dive when the conditions are right, particularly when the south-easterly wind is blowing.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-33.959250, 18.370068
Type
cave

Marine Protected Area: Duikerklip Provincial Nature Reserve

Best Time to Dive in Cape Town & Western Cape

The warmest water temperatures in Cape Town & Western Cape occur in January, averaging 18.9°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 18.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 18.9°C (air: 20.8°C)
  • February: 18.9°C (air: 20.7°C)
  • March: 18.9°C (air: 19.5°C)
  • April: 18.9°C (air: 17.3°C)
  • May: 18.9°C (air: 15.8°C)
  • June: 18.9°C (air: 15.0°C)
  • July: 18.9°C (air: 13.2°C)
  • August: 18.9°C (air: 13.2°C)
  • September: 18.9°C (air: 13.9°C)
  • October: 18.9°C (air: 16.5°C)
  • November: 18.9°C (air: 17.8°C)
  • December: 18.9°C (air: 19.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Cape Town & Western Cape

Nearest Dive Centres to Bakoven Rock

Marine Life in Cape Town & Western Cape

Home to 271 recorded species including 176 reef fish, 45 sharks & rays, 28 whales & dolphins, 5 hard corals, 4 other, 4 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Bakoven Rock

Based on average water temperature of 18.9°C.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 19°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Bakoven Rock?
The typical diving depth at Bakoven Rock is not explicitly stated as a single value. However, observations note long parallel wave ridges at approximately 17 meters depth to the north of the site. As a cave dive, depths can vary within the formations.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Bakoven Rock?
Divers at Bakoven Rock can expect to explore a fascinating underwater topography featuring big granite corestone outcrops and boulders, along with several overhangs and a few small caves. The area also includes fine sand close in, coarser sand with long parallel wave ridges at about 17 meters depth to the north, and low reef to the west and south. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, these diverse geological structures suggest a rich habitat.
How challenging is diving at Bakoven Rock, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at Bakoven Rock is rated as intermediate difficulty. Therefore, it may not be suitable for absolute beginners, but divers with some experience should find it manageable. It's always recommended to dive within your certification limits and comfort level for cave diving environments.
When is the best time of year or in what conditions should I plan a dive at Bakoven Rock?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or particular conditions for diving at Bakoven Rock. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might consult our When to Dive section for tips on assessing local conditions.
Are there any specific certifications or permits required to dive at Bakoven Rock?
The provided information does not specify any particular certifications or permits required to dive at Bakoven Rock. Given its intermediate difficulty and classification as a cave dive, appropriate training for such environments is generally recommended. Always check with local dive operators for the most current requirements.
What are the usual water conditions, currents, and visibility like at Bakoven Rock?
The provided data does not offer specific details regarding the usual water conditions, currents, or visibility at Bakoven Rock. Divers should consult local dive centers or recent dive reports for up-to-date information on these conditions before planning a dive.