70. Kidd's Beach Tidal Pool
Kidd’s Beach, a small coastal resort town (about 28km west of East London), originated in the 1860s as a small coastal holiday retreat for farming families from the interior, named after Charles Kidd, a former mayor of King William’s Town.
By 1870, the area was under the control of the Forestry Department. Farmers were granted permission to congregate there at Christmas, living in tents and "skerms".
In 1960, Escom arrived, and street lights were installed, and many houses were lit by it. A watch scheme was considered, but it was too expensive. Under the jurisdiction of the Divisional Council, each year has seen some notable improvements.
In 1963, a fine tidal pool was opened by Mr Edgar Glass, Chairman of the Council, within a stone’s throw of the car park and in full view of the Tearoom. This pool greatly enhances the appeal as a holiday resort. Read more about the history of Kidd's Bewach here →
71. Leach Bay Tidal Pool
Leach Bay is likely named after a member of the Leach family, who were prominent early settlers and landowners in the East London area. The tidal pool is close to the Grand Prix race track, where the South African event was held between 1934 and 1939, and the F1 Grand Prix from 1962 to 1965. These events made East London and Leach Bay an international stage. No doubt the tidal pool provided safe swimming for the many spectators to the motor racing events held there.
Alas, today it is an abandoned facility.
72. Water World Tidal Pool
The Water World facility was a municipal project that failed.
