Castle Rock in False Bay
Castle Rock, inside the Castle Rock Marine Reserve in False Bay, is renowned for its stunning underwater scenery and diverse marine life. This site offers an extraordinary diving experience, particularly during the winter months when the conditions are at their best. The rock formations and rich marine biodiversity make it a favorite spot for recreational divers.
Location: 
Getting to Castle Rock
Castle Rock is accessible via a short drive from Simonstown. Parking is available next to the road of the site, watch out for baboons, as they frequent the area. Unlike some other dive sites in the area, entering Castle rock is an easy walk on man-made steps, so getting to the water is quite easy.
Entering Castle Rock
The best entry point at Castle Rock is from the rocky shoreline, where divers can gear up and carefully enter the water. After kitting up at the car, one enters through a boom near the house, next is down the parkway and the stairs next to the house. From there keep right to the ocean. Once you reach the ocean, the entry is through a tidal pool and over a huge boulder. The underwater topography features dramatic rock formations and kelp forests, providing an enchanting environment for exploration.
Diving Conditions at Castle Rock
Winter is the prime time for diving at Castle Rock. The water temperatures range between 13-18°C, and visibility can reach up to 15 meters, depending on the weather conditions. The site offers varying depths, from shallow areas around 5 meters to deeper sections exceeding 20 meters, catering to divers of all skill levels.
Fish Species and Marine Life in False Bay
Castle Rock is teeming with marine life. Divers can expect to encounter:
Cape Fur Seals:
Often seen frolicking in the waters, seals add an element of excitement to the dive.
Pyjama Sharks:
These small, harmless sharks are frequently found resting on the seabed. \
Galjoen (Dichistius capensis):
Elusive yet rewarding to spot, Galjoen are often found among the rocky crevices.
Red Roman (Chrysoblephus laticeps):
Easily identifiable by their vibrant red color, these fish are a common sight.
Hottentot (Pachymetopon blochii):
These fish swim in schools and are abundant in the area.
Yellowtail (Seriola lalandi):
A prized catch for spearfishers, Yellowtail are occasionally seen in these waters.
Nudibranchs:
These colorful sea slugs are scattered across the reef, adding to the site’s visual appeal.
Soft Corals and Sponges:
The reef is covered with various soft corals and sponges, creating a vibrant underwater landscape.
Exploring the Reef
Upon entering the water, divers will encounter an array of marine life almost immediately. The initial part of the dive features rocky outcrops and kelp forests, providing a habitat for numerous species. As divers venture further, the reef deepens, offering a more dramatic underwater experience. Exploring the southern section of the reef, which lies between the 8–12-meter mark, is particularly rewarding, with sightings of Hottentot, Red Roman, and occasionally Yellowtail.
Best Times and Conditions for Diving
Winter months offer the best diving conditions at Castle Rock. Cooler water temperatures reduce plankton blooms, improving visibility. Offshore winds from the north or west clear the water, making for optimal diving conditions. The sheltered location of Castle Rock allows for diving even when other sites in False Bay might be less favorable.
Safety Tips for Diving at Castle Rock
Safety is crucial when diving at Castle Rock. Here are some key tips:
Dive with a Buddy:
Always dive with a partner to ensure safety and aid if needed.
Check Weather Conditions:
Monitor weather forecasts and avoid diving in adverse conditions.
Use Proper Gear:
Ensure all equipment is in good condition and suitable for the diving conditions.
Be Mindful of Marine Life:
Respect the marine environment and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Stay Within Limits:
Know your limits and dive within your certification and experience level.
Gear Recommendations
For a successful and comfortable dive at Castle Rock, consider the following gear (like Johnson’s Reef):
Wetsuits:
A 5mm wetsuit with an integrated hood, such as the Reef 5mm Barrier Dive Wetsuit, provides optimal thermal protection.
Fins:
High-performance fins like Spierre or Freedivers Pure Carbon Blades offer excellent propulsion and maneuverability.
Masks and Snorkels:
Low-volume masks such as the Reef Inferno or Reef Mirror-Free ensure clear vision and a comfortable fit.
Weightbelts:
Freedivers silicone weightbelts with 800g D-weights provide excellent weight distribution and buoyancy control.
Personal Anecdotes and Expert Advice
Castle Rock is one of my favorite dive sites in False Bay. The underwater scenery is breathtaking, and the variety of marine life is impressive. One memorable dive involved a curious Jut Jaw Fish that followed us for almost the entire dive, making for an unforgettable experience.
Preparation is everything! Make sure you have all the necessary gear and check the weather conditions before you go. Diving with a buddy is essential, as the conditions can change rapidly. Always respect the marine life and the environment.
