Paaltjies - Cape Town & Western Cape

Rose Bay is one of those places we keep coming back to when we just want to float. Forget those deep, heavy dives; this is all about staying shallow, maybe 3-7 metres, and really slowing down. We’ve spent hours here, meticulously combing the sand and the coral patches. The visibility can be a bit hit-or-miss, averaging 8 metres, but don't let that deter you. It’s what you find when you get close that matters. We love the mix of soft and hard corals here, especially those extensive fields of staghorn. They’re a real magnet for smaller reef fish. Keep an eye out for the Orangefin ponyfish darting in the open sand, or the Common Pike-conger peeking out from under a coral head. The Peacock-tail Anemone Shrimp is another favourite, almost guaranteed in the anemones. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a Dugong munching on seagrass, a truly special encounter. Our top tip? Go on a rising tide. The entry can be a little tricky over submerged rocks, so timing it right makes all the difference. This spot is perfect for photographers, particularly macro enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys a long, unhurried explore. It’s not about grand vistas, but about the intricate details tucked into every corner.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-33.008600, 17.950100
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-15m

Marine Protected Area: Marcus Island Marine Protected Area

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 Paaltjies

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 Paaltjies

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