The Crystal Pools are a series of natural rock pools in the Steenbras River Gorge, in the Steenbras Nature Reserve just outside Gordon's Bay. A short but steep trail climbs up the gorge from Clarence Drive, and on a hot summer day there are few better places to swim near Cape Town.
It is very popular, numbers are limited, and you cannot just turn up. Here is what you need to know before you go.
When is Crystal Pools open?
The trail is open from 1 November to 30 April each year and closed through the winter months.
Do you need a permit for Crystal Pools?
Yes. You must have a pre-booked and paid permit to enter. The City of Cape Town allows a maximum of 50 people a day, in groups of between 2 and 10.
How to book Crystal Pools
Permits are issued by the Steenbras Nature Reserve. Email steenbras.naturereserve@capetown.gov.za, or phone 021 856 9622, 021 856 9623 or 021 856 9620. Allow at least two working days for the booking to be finalised. Weekends in December and January book up quickly, so plan ahead.
Ask the reserve for the current permit fee when you book. Published prices vary between sources, so we haven't quoted one here.
Several local hiking groups also run guided Crystal Pools hikes, which is an easy option if you'd rather not organise the permit yourself.
How long is the Crystal Pools hike?
Cape Town Tourism describes it as only about 2 km each way, but the climb gets tough. Allow three to five hours for the round trip with time to swim. There are five large pools, and the higher you go, the fewer people you'll share them with.
The path is rocky and steep in places, with some scrambling. It's fine for fit children who are used to hiking, but not for toddlers or anyone unsteady on their feet.
Getting there from Green Gables
Drive through Gordon's Bay and onto Clarence Drive (R44). The hike starts at the Steenbras River bridge, a few minutes out of the village and about 20 minutes from Green Gables. Bring your permit with you.
What to bring
Good shoes with grip, a swimsuit, sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water and snacks. It's a bin-free trail, so take all your rubbish home with you. Baboons live in the gorge: keep food in your bag and never feed them.
Safety tips
Start early, before the heat of the day. Rocks near the water are slippery, and pools can be deeper than they look, so check before you jump. Never swim alone, and turn back if the weather changes.
Make a day of it
Combine the hike with lunch in Gordon's Bay, or continue along Clarence Drive to Kogel Bay and Dappat se Gat in the afternoon.
