The Shark Spotters flag system at Muizenberg Beach is a lifesaver—literally! Whether you’re a local surfer or just here to soak up the Cape Town vibes, the flags keep you in the know about shark activity and ocean safety. Here’s how it works:
The Shark Spotter Flags and What They Mean:
Green Flag
Meaning: Spotters have great visibility, and no sharks are in sight.
Action: Dive in and enjoy! But hey, it’s still the ocean, so stay sharp.
Black Flag
Meaning: Visibility isn’t great—think murky water or cloudy skies. Shark Spotters can’t guarantee they’ll see everything.
Action: Be cautious, and maybe keep to the shallows.
Red Flag
Meaning: A shark was recently spotted nearby, but it’s moved off (for now).
Action: Stay alert and think twice before heading out for a swim or surf.
White Flag with a Black Shark
Meaning: There’s a shark in the water, plain and simple. You’ll also hear the siren blaring—this is your cue to exit stage left (or right).
Action: Get out of the water immediately.
No Flag
Meaning: The Shark Spotters aren’t on duty at the moment—perhaps it’s after hours.
Action: Enter the water at your own risk, knowing there’s no one keeping watch.
Can I Trust The Shark Spotters?
Shark Spotters don’t just sit around—they’re stationed on the mountainside, scanning the waves with binoculars and polarized sunglasses like ocean superheroes. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a pod of dolphins while they’re on shark patrol. The program is praised for its eco-conscious approach, keeping both humans and marine life safe.
So next time you hit the beach, check the flags, stay shark-savvy, and enjoy everything Muizenberg has to offer whether that’s surfing, swimming, or just a lekker day in the sun!
For more information on the Shark Spotters programme check their website https://sharkspotters.org.za/