Pyramid Rock - Cape Town & Western Cape

Split Bommie at Hastings Reef is one of those sites we always recommend for a relaxed afternoon. The name makes sense once you’re down there – it's a collection of distinct coral heads, or bommies, that sit a little way off the main reef, creating these lovely channels and swim-throughs. At a maximum depth of 13 metres, it’s a brilliant spot for newer divers or anyone just wanting to spend some quality time soaking in the details without worrying about deco. We love the easygoing feel here. You'll drift over big tables of stony coral, their surfaces textured like ancient landscapes, and spot the brilliant fluorescence grass coral glowing subtly in the shadows. Look closely for Giant morays peeking out from their crevices, and keep an eye on the sand patches for Green turtles munching on seagrass. On a sunny day, the light plays beautifully through the shallow water, illuminating schools of Bicolour Parrotfish and Blue-lined Surgeonfish grazing the reef. It’s a gentle, pretty dive, perfect for photographers or just unwinding.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.237400, 18.478300
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Table Mountain National Park 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 Pyramid 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 Pyramid 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 maximum depth at the Pyramid Rock dive site in Cape Town?
The maximum depth at the Pyramid Rock dive site is 12 meters. Divers can expect an average depth ranging from 5 to 10 meters, making it a relatively shallow and accessible dive.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Pyramid Rock?
Divers at Pyramid Rock can explore a vibrant kelp forest, along with numerous overhangs and exciting swim-throughs. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including Red Romans (Wrasse), Hottentot, and Black Bream. Shark species such as Puffadder and Dark Shyshark, Pyjama and Leopard Catshark, as well as the Spotted Gulley Shark, can also be spotted here. For more information on marine species, visit DivePlnr's wildlife database.
How difficult is the Pyramid Rock dive site, and is it suitable for entry-level divers?
The Pyramid Rock dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for entry-level divers who may lack the experience required for its conditions and features. Divers should have appropriate training and experience for intermediate-level dives.
What is the best time of year to dive Pyramid Rock for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at Pyramid Rock is not provided in the available data. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult DivePlnr's 'When to Dive' guide.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at Pyramid Rock?
The provided data does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications required to dive at Pyramid Rock. It is always advisable to check with local dive operators in Cape Town & Western Cape for their specific requirements and recommendations based on your experience level.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility at the Pyramid Rock dive site?
Divers at Pyramid Rock can typically expect an average visibility of 9 meters. However, specific information regarding the typical current conditions at this dive site is not available in the provided data.