Simon’s Town Harbor - Cape Town & Western Cape

Tormentos is our go-to for a mellow drift, especially as a second dive when we want to just cruise and soak it all in. We love the way the reef here is sculpted, forming these shallow canyons and overhangs that are perfect for spotting the shyer critters. Keep an eye out for the Cozumel Splendid Toadfish; they’re often tucked away in a crevice, staring out with those distinctive eyes – finding one always feels like a little victory. It’s a site that really rewards a slow pace. You’ll drift past gorgonians swaying gently, and often spot spotted eagle rays gliding by in the blue, or a turtle munching on the sponges. The current is usually pretty mild, making it a great spot for photographers or anyone who just wants to take their time exploring the nooks and crannies without battling the flow. For anyone looking for a relaxed, vibrant reef dive, Tormentos consistently delivers.

Location
Cape Town & Western Cape, South Africa, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-34.192000, 18.434000
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 Simon’s Town Harbor

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 Simon’s Town Harbor

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