ISO 24444 / ISO 24443 EU COLIPA and SANS 1557 Verified Broadspectrum Sunscreens
South African Tide Tables
Access accurate tide information for South Africa's major coastal areas. Plan your beach visits, fishing trips, and water activities with confidence while ensuring proper sun protection.
Coastal Locations Tide Tables
Select your coastal location from the options below to view detailed tide times and information:
Cape Town
Tide tables for Cape Town including Table Bay, Hout Bay, and False Bay areas.
View Cape Town Tides
Port Elizabeth
Detailed tide information for Port Elizabeth and Algoa Bay beaches.
View Port Elizabeth Tides
East London
Tide information for East London's Nahoon Beach and surrounding areas.
View East London Tides
Richards Bay
Tide times and information for Richards Bay and surrounding beaches.
View Richards Bay TidesUnderstanding Tides & Beach Safety
Why Understanding Tides Matters
Tides have a significant impact on various coastal activities:
- Swimming Safety: Low tides may expose rocks and create rip currents, while high tides reduce beach area and can create powerful currents.
- Fishing: Different fish species are more active during specific tide phases.
- Beach Activities: Planning picnics, walks, or shell collecting is more enjoyable when you understand tide patterns.
- Water Sports: Surfing, kayaking, and sailing are all affected by tide cycles.
- Rock Pool Exploration: Low tides expose fascinating marine ecosystems in rock pools.
Key Tide Terminology
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| High Tide | The highest water level reached during the tide cycle |
| Low Tide | The lowest water level reached during the tide cycle |
| Spring Tide | Occurs during full and new moons, creating the highest high tides and lowest low tides |
| Neap Tide | Occurs during quarter moons, when difference between high and low tide is minimal |
| Tidal Range | The vertical difference between a high tide and adjacent low tide |
| Tidal Current | Horizontal movement of water caused by rising or falling tides |
Beach Safety Tips
When enjoying South Africa's beautiful beaches, always:
- Check tide times before planning your beach visit
- Be aware of tide changes while at the beach
- Avoid swimming during spring tides unless you're an experienced swimmer
- Look out for rip current warnings and signs
- Stay on designated swimming beaches with lifeguards
- Never explore rocky areas during incoming tides
- Keep children supervised near water, especially during changing tides
Sun Protection for Beach Activities
Protection During Water Activities
Water activities expose you to higher UV radiation levels due to:
- Water Reflection: Water reflects up to 30% of UV radiation, increasing your exposure even when you're in shade.
- Wash-Off Factor: Regular sunscreens wash off in water, leaving you unprotected.
- Extended Exposure: Beach activities often involve hours of sun exposure during peak UV times.
- Cooling Effect: The cooling sensation of water masks the feeling of sunburn until damage is done.
Kool-a-Sun provides water-resistant sunscreen solutions specifically formulated for beach and water activities:
- SPF 40 & 50 water-resistant formulations
- 4-hour water resistance for extended swimming and water sports
- SANS 1557 and EU COLIPA certified protection
- Non-greasy formula ideal for water activities
For maximum protection during beach activities, contact us about our specialized water-resistant sunscreen options.
Additional Coastal Resources
Enhance your coastal experiences with these additional resources:
Weather Information
Sun Protection Resources
Need More Information?
For more information about tide tables or our UV protection products ideal for beach activities, please contact us:
Email: Contact Kool-a-Sun
Phone: 012 811 5217
Or visit our Contact Page for more ways to reach us.