-33.75 | 18.44
Haakgat is one of Cape Town's most famous and dangerous reef breaks, located between Melkbosstrand and Big Bay. This expert spot is a powerful right-hander breaking on a very shallow rocky reef, known for its barrels and massive waves. Haakgat ("Shark Hole" in Afrikaans) is an iconic spot in South African wave riding, attracting the country's best riders. Waves can reach 4-5 meters in big swell. Exclusively reserved for experts with solid wave riding experience in extreme conditions.
Works with big southwest swell (2+ meters) combined with the SE Cape Doctor. Best at mid-rising tide — at low tide the reef is dry, at high tide waves lose power. When conditions align (big swell + moderate SE wind + good tide), Haakgat offers some of the best waves in South Africa. Perfect sessions are rare and highly coveted.
Open all year round
Expert
Cold water (12-16°C), 5/3 wetsuit recommended for long sessions. Massive waves (2-5 m) breaking on an extremely shallow rocky reef. Violent currents. Dense kelp. The wave power is comparable to the best tropical reef breaks but with freezing water. Impact on the reef can be devastating.
Parking along Otto du Plessis Drive. Access via a path to the coast. The spot is visible from the road. No infrastructure. Don't leave valuables.
South-easterly Cape Doctor in side-offshore, creating clean conditions and perfect waves. The best sessions are in moderate wind (15-25 knots). In very strong wind, conditions become extreme. The offshore component smooths wave faces and creates clean barrels.
EXTREME DANGER: one of Cape Town's most dangerous spots. Very shallow reef with massive waves — risk of serious injuries (fractures, deep lacerations, drowning). Offshore wind that can carry you out to sea. Violent currents. Dense kelp. Cold water. Sharks (hence the name "Haakgat" — shark hole). Isolated spot without lifeguards. NEVER RIDE ALONE. Reserved exclusively for experts.
If you notice any outdated information:
Suggest an editLive data from ZA Seapoint 0m weather station (wind, gusts, history) is reserved for Premium members.
Already a Premium member? Log in
Loading webcams...
Comments 0
Login to commentNo comments yet.