Long Beach

This dive site, known as Long Beach, is located on a sandy beach and offers a good training environment. The seabed gradually descends from the shore, reaching a maximum depth of 18 meters at Simon’s Town Harbour mouth, with shallower areas closer to the coast (around 5 meters) and approximately 9 meters further out. The area features extensive sand beds containing seaweed and loose rocks, often hosting unique organisms like strap Caulerpa and feather stars. A significant feature is the wreck of a small steel barge that provides habitat for various marine life, including Warty pleurobranch, Sand slugs, and occasionally sea hares. The site is known for attracting diverse fish species, some not typically found in the Western Cape region due to coastal currents. Seals are frequently observed, and Southern Right whales may visit during certain times of the year. Stingrays can also be spotted. Photography benefits from natural light – a flash is recommended beyond 300mm to counteract backscatter. Topography consists of a relatively flat sand bottom with scattered rock formations and remnants of shipwrecked vessels, including parts of a sailing yacht’s keel and hull. In 2009, a sports fisherman sank near the barge wreck, creating an additional underwater feature.