Is it safe to swim in the ocean in Cape Town

In reality, it's probably more likely you'll suffer hypothermia than shark attacks while swimming in the Cape Town oceans. Though the Fishoek and Muizenberg beaches are known to have great whites in their waters from time to time, there's a number of stystems in place designed to warn swimmers of danger, including sirens, lifegaurds and full-time designated shark spotters.

The recent attack was the result of one swimmer's decision to ignore the warnings given to him by lifegaurds, and to swim in the water of a beach that had been closed due to the shark's presence.

In short, it's perfectly safe to swim in Cape Town's waters, though, as you'll likely discover, the cold temperatures may change your mind otherwise.

Average: Select ratingCancel ratingPoorOkayGoodGreatAwesome

Your rating: None

Absolutely safe! but only swim on beaches where you can see and talk to the lifeguard! Just remember, the water is quite cold, so go to the Fishoek beach for warmer water! or buy a wetsuit!

Average: Select ratingCancel ratingPoorOkayGoodGreatAwesome

Your rating: None

The waters are safest on the Atlantic Bay side, where the popular beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay can be found. There have been no reported shark attacks ever in this area. Besides the water is generally too cold for many swimmers to offer themselves up to the sharks which are generally ply the warmer, shallower waters of the False Bay sidem, particularly Fish Hoek.

Average: Select ratingCancel ratingPoorOkayGoodGreatAwesome

Your rating: None