False Bay is the largest bay along the South African coastline. It is a beautiful body of water with a number of well recognised and supported swim routes. A swim from Miller’s Point to Fish Hoek which, given perfect conditions, is one of the most beautiful routes that Cape Town has to offer, ought to be a bucket list swim for local open swimmers and swimmers from overseas. One of the most popular reasons for selecting a False Bay swim is that the water in False Bay is considered to be slightly warmer than the water on the Atlantic side of the Cape Peninsula, particularly in the summertime.

The History

Historically many swims were organised in False Bay and in the earlier days of the CLDSA, many memorable swims from Simonstown to Muizenberg were co-ordinated. With the recent withdrawal of Great White Sharks from the bay and somewhat of a revival in open water swimming, the Miller’s Point to Fish Hoek route is set to become a very popular swim. At this moment, there are only sixteen swimmers that have ratified their swim for this route.

The Route

It is well worth waiting for the perfect weather window for this swim. The route begins at the slipway at Miller’s Point. Considering the perfect conditions that you choose, you may well have to wait your turn for your support boat to get into the water, amongst the local fisherman, who will be taking advantage of the good weather too. From Miller’s Point slipway, you swim through the South Peninsula kelp forests and out into the bay. You will pass by Simonstown and all the beautiful swimming coves on your left hand side, and head straight towards the lighthouse at Roman Rock.

Once you reach the lighthouse, Roman Rock, you know you are about halfway home, you keep heading towards the mountain straight ahead of you, called Elsies Peak, and round the corner into Fish Hoek bay. Keep on swimming alongside the scenic South Peninsula railway line, and when you see the railway bridge at Sunny Cove Station, then you know you are in the home straight. On a perfect day, you should have a lovely swell behind you pushing you towards the beach and a soft, sandy landing when you get there.

If you are interested in swimming this route then please feel free to take a look at the CLDSA FAQ.