South Paw
Protected Area
Duikerklip Provincial Nature Reserve
Why dive here
With 269+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales and great white sharks - South Paw offers some of Cape Town & Western Cape's richest diving. Water ranges 14-16°C, warmest February, March, April.
South Paw, tucked away near Simon's Town, is a good spot for a relaxed shallow dive. We often find playful seals here, weaving through the kelp forest like they own the place. It’s a gentle introduction to Cape Town diving, ideal for newer divers looking to get comfortable in a temperate environment. The calm conditions usually make for an easy entry and exit.
Safety Notes
Cold water this month (avg 15°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Nearest Dive Centres to South Paw
Dive shops near South Paw
Into the Blue Scuba
Two Oceans Aquarium
Coral Wetsuits
UCT Underwater Club
University of Cape Town Underwater Club
Dive Action
Reviews for South Paw
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for South Paw
South Paw Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for South Paw, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-33.92, 18.46) (8km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
15°C
59°F · Range: 12.4–17.2°C
Air Temperature
17°C
62°F
Wind Speed
7.33 m/s
14.2 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1018.1 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive Cape Town & Western Cape, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Cape Town & Western CapePlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Cape Town & Western Cape.
Search stays in Cape Town & Western CapeDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near South Paw
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.