Long Beach Dive Site
Located in Simon’s Town on the False Bay coastline, Long Beach is one of Cape Town’s most well-known and frequently dived shore sites. Popular among beginner and experienced divers alike, this easily accessible spot offers a variety of underwater attractions and vibrant marine life. The shallow, protected waters of Long Beach make it ideal for scuba divers, snorkelers, and freedivers alike, though freedivers should be especially courteous of scuba divers who regularly train in the area.
Layout and Underwater Features
Long Beach is known for its relatively flat sandy bottom, with depths ranging from 3 to 10 meters. One of the highlights of the dive is the wrecks in the area. Some dating to World War II, others from Spain and Portugal dated as far back as late 1800’s, all are very shallow and just a short swim from the shore. The wrecks offers a glimpse into Cape Town’s maritime history and is a popular point of exploration for snorkelers, scuba divers and snorkelers alike. In addition to the wreck, there are artificial reef structures like old pipes and debris that have become homes for marine life.
The site also features kelp beds, rocky outcrops, and patches of eelgrass that are often teeming with smaller marine creatures, offering plenty of areas to explore for divers at all levels.
Location: 
Marine Life at Long Beach
The marine life at Long Beach is rich and varied, making it an excellent site for observing both smaller species and the occasional larger visitor. Expect to see:
Klipfish, Hottentot, and Pipefish
These small fish are commonly seen darting among the kelp and eelgrass beds.
Atlantic Sole Fish
Similar to other flat fish like arctic flounder fish, the fish feed off the bottom of the ocean.
Shy Sharks and Pajama Sharks
These gentle sharks are often found resting on the sandy bottom or weaving through the kelp.
Octopus
Known to hide in the crevices of rocks or debris, octopus can be spotted by keen-eyed divers.
Crayfish
Often seen hiding in the wreck or rocky outcrops, though not available for collection due to local regulations.
Nudibranchs
These vibrant sea slugs are a highlight for underwater photographers, bringing pops of color to the otherwise muted sandy bottom.
For Snorkelers, the dive site’s moderate depth and varied habitats make it ideal for exploring various environments and exploring the site’s different features.
Diving Conditions at Long Beach
The diving conditions at Long Beach are typically calm, making it an ideal training site for beginner divers. The depth is shallow and relatively flat, ranging between 3 to 10 meters, and the sheltered location helps protect it from the harsh swells that can impact other False Bay sites.
Visibility
Visibility can vary widely depending on the weather and season, ranging from 5 to 8 meters on average. On particularly good days, visibility can exceed 12 meters, making it a great site for exploring the wreck and other underwater features.
Water Temperature
The water temperature in False Bay typically ranges from 12 to 18°C, so divers should come prepared with a thick wetsuit, particularly in the colder winter months.
Currents
Long Beach is relatively protected from strong currents, but divers should still be cautious and check local conditions before heading out. There is often a current parralel to shore, although it is not too strong, and you will always have a point of exit
Long Beach is best dived during the summer months, from November to March, when the southeasterly winds help clear the water, resulting in improved visibility.
Diving Etiquette at Long Beach
Given its popularity, Long Beach can often be busy with scuba divers training for various courses, snorkelers enjoying the shallow waters, and even freedivers exploring the kelp forests. Freedivers and snorkelers should always be mindful of their surroundings and make sure to give space to scuba divers, particularly those conducting training sessions. Since it is a shared space, courtesy and awareness are key to ensuring everyone has an enjoyable dive.
Gear Recommendations for Long Beach
For a successful and comfortable dive at Long Beach, consider the following gear:
Wetsuits
A 5mm wetsuit with an integrated hood is ideal, as water temperatures in False Bay typically range between 12 to 18°C.
Fins
Cressi Gara plastic fins provide the speed and agility needed for exploring both the wreck and the shallower kelp beds.
Masks and Snorkels
Low-volume masks such as the Reef Inferno ensure clear vision and comfort, which is essential for freediving and snorkeling.
Weightbelts
Silicone weightbelts with 800g D-weights provide excellent buoyancy control for both scuba divers and freedivers.
Dive Lights
A strong dive light is recommended for exploring deeper sections of the wreck and illuminating the crevices where octopuses and other creatures hide.
Personal Anecdotes and Expert Advice
Long Beach is the perfect training ground for both new and experienced divers. The site offers a lot of variety in marine life, and the easy entry makes it accessible to everyone. I always recommend taking it slow and respecting the other divers in the area, particularly the scuba students who use the site often.
Conclusion
Long Beach is a versatile and vibrant dive site that offers something for everyone, from beginner scuba divers to seasoned freedivers. Its accessibility, calm conditions, and rich marine life make it one of the most popular shore dives in Simon’s Town. By respecting the diving etiquette, using the right gear, and paying attention to local conditions, divers can have a safe and enjoyable experience at this unique location.
