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If you’re looking to take a refreshing dip away from the sand, seawater, and large crowds, Cape Town’s wide variety of lagoons, dams, and rivers are the perfect place to do just that. Let’s be honest, what’s more thrilling than plunging into a crystal-clear rock pool in one of the most beautiful locations in the Western Cape?

Here are some of the best lagoons, dams, and rivers in Cape Town for swimming, all of which deserve a prime spot on your bucket list:

1. Silvermine Reservoir:

The Silvermine Reservoir is a fan-favourite for cooling down when the Mother City heats up – undoubtedly making it one of the best dams and rivers in Cape Town for swimming. Besides enjoying a refreshing swim in a stunning location, there are loads of picnic spots scattered around the reserve, making it the perfect place for a fun-filled family day out.

Picture: Silvermine Reservoir/ Facebook
  • Distance from Cape Town: +/- 50 minutes
  • Location: Silvermine Reservoir in Table Mountain National Park
  • Opening times:  Daily, 8am – 5pm
  • Contact details: 021 712 0527 | [email protected] (Table Mountain National Park)

2. Langebaan Lagoon:

Langebaan is arguably one of the most popular holiday destinations along the West Coast. Make your getaway more memorable by taking a refreshing dip in one of the Cape’s largest saltwater lagoons. Regarded as a wetland of international importance, it’s protected by the West Coast National Park.

  • Distance from Cape Town: +/- 1 hour 21 minutes
  • Location: 1 Bree Street, Langebaan
Picture: Langebaan Lagoon/ Facebook

3. Kleinmond Lagoon:

The Kleinmond Lagoon in the Cape Overberg is a stunning beach which also has a small lagoon that is fed by the Palmiet River before heading into the ocean. Not only is the lagoon popular for swimming, but holiday goers love canoeing in this lagoon too.

Picture: Kleinmond Lagoon/ Facebook
  • Distance from Cape Town: +/- 1 hour 19 minutes
  • Location: Kleinmond Beach

4. Palmiet River:

Palmiet River is located in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, one of the Western Cape’s most beautiful natural wonders. The best way to reach the Palmiet River is via the Palmiet River Trail in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve. It is also a great spot for hiking and exploring the nearby sandy coastline.

Picture: Palmiet Lagoon/ Facebook
  • Distance from Cape Town: +/- 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Location: Kogelberg Nature Reserve, via N2 to Kleinmond or via Gordons Bay and Clarens Drive
  • Opening times: Daily, 7.30am – 4pm (gate closes at 7pm)
  • Contact details: 087 288 0499 (reserve office) | 087 087 8250; [email protected] (for permits)

5. Berg River Resort:

The Berg River is located in the Berg River Resort in the beautiful Winelands town of Franschhoek. Besides its picturesque location, the Berg River Resort is an amazing family-friendly resort, jam-packed with tons of fun activities and adventure experiences, including swimming and canoeing. For die-hard adventurers, river dipping in the Berg River is right up your alley!

Picture: Berg River Resort/ Facebook
  • Distance from Cape Town: +/- 50 minutes
  • Location: Berg River Resort, R45 (via N1), Franschhoek
  • Opening times: 8am – 5pm
  • Contact details: 021 001 8805 | [email protected]
  • Cost: R100 – R120 (day visitors, depending on season); free (children under 3); R100 – R120 (per vehicle, depending on season)

Also Read:

10 things to do in Yzerfontein – a surfer’s paradise on the West Coast

Picture: Kleinmond Lagoon / Facebook

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