Rock pools of the Western Cape
Rock pools form along rocky sections of the Western Cape coastline where seawater remains trapped as the tide goes out. These shallow pools create small natural habitats that are easy to explore on foot during low tide. Many Cape Peninsula and coastal beaches have accessible rock pools, and they are especially popular with families and visitors walking along the shore.
Rock pools contain a surprising variety of shells and small marine animals. Mussels, limpets and periwinkles attach themselves to rocks in the intertidal zone, while crabs, sea stars and chitons move slowly between the pools. Sea anemones are common and can often be seen closing up when gently disturbed, sometimes releasing small squirts of water as a defence.
For help identifying shells found along the shore, see the illustrated Western Cape seashell guide.
Before removing shells from the beach, please read the Western Cape shell collecting rules.
When to explore
The best time to explore rock pools is at low tide and during calm sea conditions. Morning low tides are usually safest because winds are lighter and waves are smaller. After winter storms, more shells and sea life may be visible as material from deeper water is washed closer to shore.
Always keep an eye on the ocean. Waves can reach further than expected, especially along exposed coastlines.
Common shells found in rock pools
Rock pools are home to many attached shell species. These animals rely on the changing tides and must remain moist to survive.
You may commonly see:
- limpets firmly attached to rocks
- black, brown and ribbed mussels growing in clusters
- periwinkles grazing on algae
- empty shells trapped between rocks after rough seas
Many shells found in rock pools are still occupied. Living animals should always be left in place.
Small marine animals you may see
Rock pools support a range of small marine animals that can be observed safely without handling.
Typical sightings include:
- hermit crabs carrying borrowed shells
- small shore crabs hiding beneath stones
- sea anemones attached to rock surfaces
- sea urchins in deeper pools
- starfish and chitons moving slowly along rock faces
These animals are adapted to waves, temperature changes and drying conditions between tides. Even brief removal from water can harm them.
Safety and responsible behaviour
Rocky shores can be slippery and uneven. Walk carefully and wear shoes with grip if possible. Never turn your back on the ocean.
When exploring rock pools:
- Do not pry animals off rocks
- avoid lifting large stones
- Return small stones gently to their original position
- leave live shells and animals where they are found
- Do not use soap, sunscreen or chemicals in pools
- Supervise children near waves and slippery surfaces
Rock pools are fragile environments. A small area can contain many living organisms that depend on each other.
Where to find rock pools in the Western Cape
Rock pools occur wherever rocky shoreline meets the sea. They are common along the Cape Peninsula and at many coastal towns and beaches with rocky sections. Sheltered bays and coves often have the easiest pools to explore during low tide.
After visiting rock pools, many people also notice shells along nearby beaches. If you plan to collect shells, please follow the legal limits and conservation rules.
