My Journey into South Africa’s Hidden Kelp Forests
The first time I entered a kelp forest, I was terrified. The dark, swaying fronds looked like tentacles ready to entangle me, and the murky shadows seemed to hide unknown dangers. But as I slowed my breathing and listened, I began to hear the gentle crackling sounds of the kelp, like the sea whispering to me in a secret language. What started as fear transformed into fascination.
1. Wonder in the Underwater Forest
A Kelp forest above the water looks like a tangle of shiny green leaves
From the shore, the forest canopy looks like a shiny green mass covering the unknown beneath. This made me apprehensive or scared to go there, the unknown. Below the surface an enchanting world opens up, with bright orange sea stars, pink and mauve urchins gathered on rocks, and little shysharks scurrying past.
These magnificent forests aren’t just beautiful — they’re essential guardians of our coast. They act like natural barriers, softening the impact of powerful waves and keeping our shorelines intact.
This ecosystem provides food and shelter for many marine species and is one of the richest habitats on earth. I realize how blessed I am to have this treasure where I live, as one of the world’s largest kelp forests is in South Africa.
2. Distribution and recent spread
The underwater forest in South Africa extends for about 1,000km parallel to the shoreline from the west to the southern coast at De Hoop Nature Reserve, and about 100m offshore.
When I started learning about our local kelp, I was surprised to discover that it isn’t a true plant — it’s a marine alga. In South Africa, we have two main species: some that tower like underwater trees, and others that hug closer to the ocean floor.
I love encountering Laminaria pallida, the shorter kelp species. On my dives, I pause to watch the sea life community among these fronds — from tiny sea snails grazing on the leaves to the sometimes destructive urchins nibbling at their bases.
The majestic Ecklonia maxima never fails to amaze me. These giants tower above me during my dives, creating the cathedral-like forests that have become my underwater sanctuary.
Kelp Forest with tall kelp stems of the Ecklonia maxima
Kelp attaches to rocks or other kelp. I love explaining to new divers how its hollow stem and buoyant float help it reach sunlight, like an underwater sunflower following the light.
In summer, the southeasterly wind nourishes the Cape Peninsula by bringing upwellings of nutrient-rich waters from the ocean’s depths, fertilizing the kelp, and allowing them to grow into giant forests. Wave action and water movement are also vital for growth because they stir up nutrients in the sediment for the plants to absorb through their fronds.
3. Diverse Ecosystems
I was amazed to learn that these forests house over 14,000 species. Imagine an entire city’s worth of life in these underwater neighborhoods! Exploring them provides countless encounters with marine life. Impressively large Short-tail stingrays glide past or shy Gully sharks disappear into the distance. The inquisitive and ancient Sevengill Cow sharks can be seen here. Cape Clawless Otters also call this place home, playing in the shallows, eating crab or fish on a rock. Their numbers have risen recently. Just like the Cape Fur Seals, otters are entertaining to watch. Although it’s not likely that you would see them underwater while diving, you might see them at the surface.
Kelp forests serve as nurseries for various fish species and provide food and shelter for animals from predators and storms. Vibrant sea anemones are scattered everywhere, and if you look closely, you’ll find the astonishingly well-camouflaged cuttlefishes and octopuses.
A cuttlefish hiding in the kelp forest
I feel small in this large, life-sustaining organism. It not only provides and sustains life but also cleanses the water. These large algal plants purify the water by thriving on the waste its inhabitants produce.
4. Nature’s Hidden Climate Warrior
After a few dives in the kelp, I relaxed, and wide-eyed inquisitiveness replaced my apprehension. Looking up, I saw a mesmerizing display of sun rays breaking through the surface playing between the tall kelp. Kelp can grow an astonishing one to two feet a day. Those beautiful sunrays are photosynthesis in action, causing the kelp to absorb huge amounts of carbon.
While South Africa’s terrestrial forests help fight climate change, underwater forests work even harder, sequestering carbon up to 20 times more efficiently. This fact emphasizes the importance of conserving these places and the value of Marine Protected Areas.
5. Wide Uses
You might be surprised at kelp’s versatility in our daily lives. It’s not just for sushi — it can be used in everything from salads to sauces, and as a pasta alternative! When I first tried kelp pasta, I was skeptical, but it turned out to be delicious! While researchers are studying its potential benefits for digestion and diabetes management, I’ve noticed how it can be a versatile addition to my kitchen.
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Kelp is cut into thin slices and cooked as a pasta substitute
More pre-packaged seaweed and kelp products are in stores now. It’s also in pharmaceuticals, toothpaste, shampoos, and puddings. It’s widely used to stabilize and improve food texture. I’ve seen it in our local pharmacy as Ecklonia, a cream for itchy skin or rashes.
Different species of edible seaweeds found on the South African coast
6. A Place to Enjoy
As you glide through the forest, the kelp fronds dance around you, their gentle touch a reminder to move with life’s flow. It’s taught me a valuable lesson about diving and life — sometimes you must trust the current and go with the flow. But when you kick and struggle in thick kelp, you feel entangled and stressed. It’s funny how the same place can be scary and stressful or the most serene wonderful place to be.
Scuba divers, freedivers, and snorkelers love exploring these forests, and anyone who dares to step out of their comfort zone to go there will fall in love.
This is a new world to explore. Once you find its rhythm, it becomes a serene place that allows you to float effortlessly and be present. A place offering calm and peace, moment by moment. Enjoying and connecting with nature is one of the most important things we can do for our mental health and well-being.
These underwater forests remind us of nature’s resilience and beauty. As I explore South Africa’s kelp, I’ve learned that fear often masks wonder, and what seems threatening can become a source of profound peace and connection. It’s a journey that changed my perspective on marine ecosystems and my place within them.
A Pyjama shark or Striped catshark swimming over the lower bottom growing algae
In Conclusion
Every time I dive into these forests, I’m reminded they’re more than just beautiful places to explore. They’re nature’s climate warriors, home to countless creatures, and vital guardians of our coastline. Protecting them isn’t just about preserving a diving spot — it’s about securing our future.
I’ll never forget a dive at Miller’s Point on a sunny day with particularly calm seas. We knew it would be good because we could see the kelp through the water from where we parked. We entered from the slipway. The water was cool as it seeped into my wetsuit but it was a welcome cold that cooled me down after kitting up in the warm sun. The moment our heads sunk beneath the surface we knew this was going to be an exceptional dive. The water was pristine with the best visibility you could ask for in our waters. The sunlight played on the tall fronds and flickers of light bounced off schools of fish. A Pyjama shark lay on the short kelp bed and vibrant Red Romans met us around every corner. There was no water movement and it felt like we were diving in an aquarium. This was one of the most serene and therapeutic dives I’ve experienced. What a wonderful experience to share with those closest to me.
Exploring Kelp Forests
I hope my story inspires you to explore the kelp forest and, if you’re like me, to put your fear aside. Open yourself to nature’s gifts; you won’t be disappointed.
The easiest way to explore the kelp is with shore entries on scuba or snorkeling. This is a great activity to share with family or friends. There are also deeper boat-accessible sites worth visiting. Exploring the kelp forest in Cape Town is a must.
I learned the hard way that a wetsuit is essential for comfortable kelp forest exploration, while some brave souls venture into Cape Town’s waters in swimsuits. I remember my first winter dive — without my wetsuit, the 12°C water would have been unbearable. My wetsuit also protected me from the gentle but persistent brush of kelp against my skin.
Popular kelp forest diving spots include Miller’s Point, A-Frame, and Windmill Beach near Simon’s Town. Rooi Els, outside Gordon’s Bay on Clarence Drive, also offers accessible, beautiful kelp diving spots.
Book your guided snorkel experience or scuba dives.
We Protect what we Love. Join the movement!
by Madelein Wolfaardt
All images ©️ by @sealife_madeleinwolf
