Windsurf, wing foil & kitesurf
Rooiels offers wonderful wind-propelled experiences, but conditions can often be challenging for the inexpert and the unwary. Rooiels is known for its strong winds, especially in summer – unless you are very proficient, do not attempt any of these sports here.
When southerly and south-easterly winds are blowing, the launching beaches are subject to strong offshore winds. Extensive kelp beds will also upend the unwary. When the wind swings into the south-east or east, a strong easterly (known locally as “the beasterly”) funnels down the Rooiels River valley. This can happen suddenly and has been known to sweep the unwary or those with equipment failures out into False Bay.
Recently, kitesurfers have been riding in the estuary on the land-side of the main beach when the north-westerly blows. However, this should be discouraged because the estuary is a sensitive ecosystem that hosts migratory birds and Cape clawless otters, amongst other wildlife.
🚫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 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.