We all know South African summers can get unbearably hot, and one of the best ways to escape the heat is a refreshing swim. While the ocean is always an option not everyone is comfortable venturing into the surf.
Fortunately, Cape Town has many great swimming pools that will allow you to escape the heat. Here we will list the ones we think are the best swimming pools in Cape Town, so you know where to go when the summer is getting too much.
Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel pool
Cloud 9 earns its name thanks to its lower deck plunge pool. This pool provides stunning 360° views of the city and Table Mountain. The pool is also accompanied by a fully stocked cocktail bar with a television behind it. This pool is the perfect place to grab a drink with friends on a hot summer’s day.
Bookings are essential as there is limited space and hotel guests take precedence. It is open to the public as long as they are over 18, and there is a minimum spending requirement of R300. However, this is well worth it for a picturesque swim that highlights the beauty of the mother city.
Sea Point Pavillion pool
An iconic landmark the Sea Point Pavillion pool is one of the most popular swimming pools in Cape Town. With sweeping views of the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, it is easy to see why it is so popular.
There are a total of four pools, the Olympic swimming pool for professionals, and two smaller shallow pools that are perfect for the kids to play around in. Then there is the diving board pool that provides hours of exhilarating fun as you try to wow your fellow patrons with your diving style.
These pools use fresh seawater so they are open even during droughts. Entrance to the pool costs R30 for adults and R16 for children, making it a budget-friendly way to escape the heat.
Radisson Red
The Radisson Red Hotel swimming pool is one of the best rooftop swimming pools in Cape Town. Located in the trendy Silo District by the V&A Waterfront this narrow industrial-style pool is ideal for a lazy day poolside with sweeping views of the active waterfront.
This pool has a cocktail bar that will keep you refreshed and foods like pizza are available. Meaning you can easily spend the entire day at this picturesque pool just hanging out with your friends.
You can even bring your pets along as the pool is pet friendly. The pool is open to the public though there is a minimum spending requirement of R150. The hotel encourages bookings as the rooftop can get very busy.
Long Street Public Baths
Having opened in 1908 Long street public baths is one of the oldest swimming pools in Cape Town. This historic establishment has a 25m indoor heated swimming pool allowing you to enjoy a relaxing swim on even the coldest winter’s day.
They also have a children’s pool for the little ones, and lifeguards on duty to keep their patrons safe. Additionally, there are Turkish baths and saunas available for those looking to pamper themselves.
It is important to note that the baths are open to only men or only women on some days. Access to the pool costs R30 for adults and R15 for children, while the baths cost R84 for an hour session and R158 for a 4-hour session.
Dalebrook Tidal pool
No list of swimming pools in Cape Town would be complete without the Dalebrook tidal pool. This tidal pool is a well-kept secret nestled between St James and Kalk bay.
It is one of the best tidal pools that melds into the Atlantic Ocean, offering spectacular seaside views. The pool has some lovely boulders that are ideal for lounging about and working on your tan.
These tidal pools have a low wall that ensures the water is clean thanks to a constant stream of new water coming in. There are outdoor showers and changing rooms conveniently located close to the pools as well. These tidal pools are a great way to enjoy the ocean without having to brave its currents.
Newlands public pool
For those looking for standard swimming pools in Cape Town, Newlands public pool is the place for you. Beautiful mountain vistas provide a stunning backdrop to a refreshing swim on a sunny day.
There are three pools on the premises, the 50m long main pool which often hosts local galas and school events. There is also the diving pool that is 5m deep, perfect for perfecting your triple backflip.
Finally, there is the kiddie’s pool that is 40cm deep meaning it is perfectly safe for the children to splash around and enjoy themselves. This pool allows everyone to escape the heat of the summer in a way they are comfortable with.
These are our picks for the best swimming pools in Cape Town. Some of these pools offer fantastic views and even better amenities. So the next time you want to escape the heat of a Cape Town summer. You know where to go to have a refreshing swim that is sure to cool you down.