What this paddle is about
The False Bay Kayaking Tour is the perfect introduction to Cape Town ocean paddling. We launch from sheltered Simon's Town harbour and follow the dramatic Cape Peninsula coast past Boulders Beach, Seaforth and Kalk Bay.
It's a wildlife-rich, beginner-friendly route with calm morning conditions, frequent dolphin and penguin sightings and constant photo-stop coves.
Your day on the water
After a thorough on-beach briefing, ski fit and balance test, your guide leads you out of the harbour and along the coast.
You'll paddle close enough to Boulders Beach to spot African penguins, then glide along the rocky coves and kelp lines towards Kalk Bay, with constant chances to see dolphins, seals and seabirds.
We turn back at a relaxed pace, with an option to extend into the late afternoon for a sunset paddle as the light goes pink over the mountains.
Step by step on the water
- 1
Simon's Town harbour launch
Sheltered, safe launch with full briefing.
- 2
Boulders Beach coastline
Penguin colony from the water — only seen by paddlers.
- 3
Seaforth and Kalk Bay coves
Kelp lines, fishing boats and dolphin pods.
- 4
Return paddle
Easy paddle back with the prevailing breeze.
Scenes from the ocean
Trip pricing
- Guided ocean paddleFrom R950 pp
- Wildlife kayaking tourFrom R1,500 pp
- Sunset paddleFrom R1,200 pp
Shuttle & transport
- Shared shuttle from Cape Town CBDR200 – R350 pp
- Private transfer (1–4 people)R1,500 – R3,000
What's included
- Suitable kayak or surfski, paddle, PFD and leash — all necessary kayaking equipment is included in the advertised trip price
- Experienced local ocean guide
- Briefing, PFD, leash and surfski
- Bottled water and trail snacks
- Live wind and shark spotter monitoring
Not included
- Personal travel and watersports insurance
- Gratuities for your guide (optional)
- Meals outside what's listed as included
Ocean conditions
Calm to light south-easter, swell under 1.5m, run in the morning window when False Bay is at its glassiest.
Fitness requirements
Suitable for active travellers and beginner paddlers. Comfortable swimming required. We tailor pace and distance to the group.
Safety
- All trips led by an experienced ocean guide trained in sea rescue and first aid
- Live weather, wind and swell monitoring — trips are rescheduled if conditions aren't safe
- PFDs, leashes and marine VHF carried on every paddle
- Small group ratios with a guide who paddles alongside you the whole way
What to bring
- Swimwear, rash vest and quick-dry layer
- Cap, polarised sunglasses with strap, reef-safe sunscreen
- Light windbreaker for the boat or shuttle ride home
- Water bottle and a small dry bag (we can supply)
- Sense of adventure and a love for the ocean
Best time of year
Year-round. Mornings are calmest. Summer (Nov–Apr) gives the best light; winter often has the calmest seas.
Find the launch
False Bay Kayaking Tour, answered
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