With one of the world's most iconic coastlines, the Cape is a prime destination for water-sports enthusiasts. Tourists and locals alike flock to beaches to swim and surf, but what else is on offer? We take you through some of the Cape's more unusual watersports offerings.

1. Ocean SUP

Three people paddle on SUPs away from shore towards the open ocean.We might be biased, but we think the best way to experience the beauty of the Cape coastline is from a SUP. Our Open Ocean Stand Up Paddle Boarding offers a unique and exhilarating experience for ocean enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Paddle boarding is a great environmentally friendly way to explore the coastline and interact with nature. Dolphins and sunfish are often spotted along with seals and penguins racing through the kelp forests.

Provides an opportunity to explore the vast and mesmerising open ocean, combining the tranquillity of paddle boarding with the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the world’s most iconic coastal landscapes.

Book here.

2. Glow Tours

You might not think of Cape Town's bustling waterfront as the place for a water sports adventure. But the iconic canals are the perfect place to step away from the crowds and see the city from a different angle. Visit during the day for a refreshing break on the water or join us at night for our unique glow tours, where the canals will be lit by your light up SUP.

This unique tour, on the world's first glowing SUPs, allows participants to enjoy evening paddling with the mesmerising luminosity of the GLOW boards, making every moment on the water magical. Enjoy a relaxing, scenic paddle on the Cape Town canals, chat to our guides for details on the history of the canal, the surrounding apartments, and the canal wildlife, before moving to one of the many local bars and restaurants for some refreshment.

Perfect for beginners and seasoned paddle boarders alike, this unforgettable adventure offers a new way to see Cape Town and its vibrant waterfront.

Book here.

3. E-foiling

Fly above the water in this amazing blend of technology and adventure.

A Efoil is essentially a surfboard with an electric motor that uses hydrofoil technology to make the board skim above the water's surface. They are controlled with a handheld remote that allows you to change speed and direction.

If this all sounds complicated, don't worry. The team at Efoil South Africa are there to guide you through, and the experience is suitable for everyone from beginners and families to seasoned adventures and water sports experts looking to try something new.

With locations in locations at Devonbosch and Langebaan Lagoon, it's a great way to see more of the Cape.

Find them here.

4. Freediving

A photo taken underwater. Light shines through tall stems of kelp.If you fancy getting in the water rather than being on it, why not try freediving in the great African Sea Forest. The Great African Sea Forest is one of the treasures of the Cape, and one of the few places in the world where a kelp forest is still thriving. You might have seen it featured in the My Octopus Teacher documentary.

Immerse yourself in this spectacular underwater world with a two day freediving course that will teach you how to balance your breath so that you can dive down and see the marine life up close. An amazing exercise for those interested in both adventure and mindfulness.

If freediving doesn't sound like your thing, or you only have a short time to spare, Cape Town freediving also offers hour-long snorkelling tours in the kelp forest.

Find them here.

5. Shark cage diving

Mako shark swimming through the water.For true thrill seekers, get up close and personal with one of the earth's most ancient species. 98 species of shark can be found in South African waters, putting us on the map for shark diving enthusiasts.

From tiny shy sharks to the infamous Great Whites, experience these much-misunderstood creatures up-close as you're lowered into the water in a floating cage. Some of the most common sharks to encounter are Mako sharks, Blue sharks and 7-gill cow sharks. Depending on the season you may also encounter seals, dolphins or even whales that frequent waters around the Cape.

As well as the dive itself you can also enjoy a beautiful boat ride to and from your dive location, what's not to love?

Book through our friends at Tyrin's Tours.

With so many ways to see the Cape from the water, which will you choose? Keep in touch with us on Instagram to share your adventures.

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