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False Bay - Bay
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False Bay

description False Bay Overview

False Bay is a prominent body of water located on the southern coast of South Africa, situated to the southeast of Cape Town. The bay is enclosed by the Cape Peninsula to the west and Cape Hangklip to the east. It received its name from early maritime navigators who frequently mistook the bay for Table Bay when approaching the coastline from the open ocean. The bay's warm currents and resident populations of Cape fur seals make it a notable habitat for great white sharks.

help False Bay FAQ

Where is False Bay located?

False Bay is a large body of water situated south of Cape Town, South Africa. It is flanked by the Cape Peninsula to the west and the mainland coastline to the east.

Why is it called False Bay?

The bay was historically notorious among sailors because it was frequently mistaken for Table Bay when approaching from the east. The geography of the coastline created an optical illusion that confused navigators into thinking they had rounded the Cape of Good Hope.

Can you see great white sharks in False Bay?

Yes, False Bay is world-famous for its population of great white sharks. Seal Island, located in the center of the bay, is one of the few places on earth where you can routinely witness these sharks breaching out of the water to hunt seals.

What famous towns are located on the shores of False Bay?

Several coastal towns line the shores of False Bay, including Simon's Town and Muizenberg. Simon's Town is famously known for hosting the massive colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach.

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