kayak, SUP & surfski
Rooiels offers wonderful paddling experiences, but conditions can often be challenging for the inexpert and the unwary.
Sea kayakers, SUP paddlers and surfskiers can easily launch at the slipway on the northern shore of the village, although parking is very limited. Paddling within the bay and behind the kelp beds is usually safe and easy, although the main beach sometimes develops a biggish shore break. The more expert and well-equipped can venture around the point and head south to Seal Point and The Cove. Off Seal Point, where the rocky shore is exposed to deep sea south-westerly swells, the sea is often confused and bumpy, however. On a calm day a kayak or surfski run down to Pringle Bay and back is a comfortable and scenic 10 km paddle.
Surfski paddlers from the Strand Lifesaving Club often do a downwinder from Rooiels to the Strand in a southerly. A small group of enthusiastic paddlers resides in Rooiels.
🚫No jetskis
Jetskis are not allowed near our beaches and cannot launch at the slipway.
⚠️Safety
Anybody who ventures offshore should be suitably equipped with a wetsuit, cellphone in a waterproof container with the NSRI’s SafeTrx app enabled, and any other appropriate safety equipment. Make sure that someone on land knows what you intend and when you expect to be back.
Quite a few Rooiels residents are NSRI Coastal Watchers and will be able to alert the nearest NSRI stations, so please know how to signal distress. The NSRI and Rooiels Boat Club have also positioned NSRI pink rescue buoys at various spots along the coast.
Lastly, familiarise yourself with the local weather conditions and the weather forecast. Strong offshore winds are the biggest threats and can occur quickly. Remember that wind conditions in Rooiels are very localised and unique. The rocky coast is often subjected to large, unexpected waves during winter.
Please respect nature in rooiels
🐒 BABOONS
If you don’t have visible food, they won’t be interested in you. Stay calm and treat them with respect.
🚗 Parking
Please park in a designated space on Anemone Road, near the shop and restaurants.
🚶♂️➡️ Stick To The Paths
Use only public roads and designated paths to minimise disturbance to wildlife and vegetation.
🚮 Don’t Litter
Please put your rubbish in the baboon proof bins provided, or even better, take it home with you.