What this paddle is about
The Kommetjie to Scarborough Surfski Tour traces the wild Atlantic edge of the Cape Peninsula. From the Kommetjie slipway we follow the kelp line south past Slangkop Lighthouse to the empty beaches of Scarborough.
It's a more committing paddle than False Bay — colder water, bigger swell, true ocean exposure — and one of the most spectacular coastal lines in the country.
Your day on the water
Meet at the Kommetjie slipway for a forecast read, briefing and ski fit. We launch through a sheltered cove and head south along the kelp forests.
The line is dramatic — Slangkop Lighthouse on the right, big Atlantic swell rolling in from the left, and seabirds and seals through the kelp.
We finish on Scarborough beach — one of the wildest, emptiest stretches of coast within reach of Cape Town. Recovery, shuttle and ski transport back to Kommetjie.
Step by step on the water
- 1
Kommetjie slipway launch
Sheltered launch, briefing and ski fit.
- 2
Slangkop Lighthouse line
Paddle south along the dramatic Atlantic kelp line.
- 3
Open coast paddle
Big-ocean swell, seabirds and remote coast.
- 4
Scarborough beach finish
Land on the wild beach, recover skis, shuttle back.
Scenes from the ocean
Trip pricing
- Shared ocean paddleFrom R2,000 pp
- Private guided experienceFrom R4,000 pp
Shuttle & transport
- Private van + ski trailerR3,500 – R7,000
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
- Shuttle and ski transport between Kommetjie and Scarborough
- PFD, leash, surfski and safety briefing
- Live wind, swell 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
Run only in safe Atlantic windows — moderate swell, manageable wind, low fog risk. We watch the forecast and pick the day.
Fitness requirements
Intermediate-to-advanced ocean paddler. Confident in cold Atlantic water with prior open-ocean experience and a reliable deep-water remount.
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
- Marine VHF carried by the lead guide
- Coast-shadow support van available on request
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
October to April. The cleanest mornings before the south-easter fills in. We track the forecast and confirm a window once it lines up.
Find the launch
Kommetjie to Scarborough Kayaking Tour, answered
Ask about this trip
Send us your dates to check availability and discuss the forecast. Our team will reply as soon as possible.