The Steenbras River flows through the Steenbras Nature Reserve, which forms part of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve on the Western Cape coast of South Africa. The river cuts through a steep-sided gorge eroded into Table Mountain Sandstone before reaching the sea, the same geological formation that underlies Table Mountain itself.

The primary paddling approach documented for this area involves sea kayaking along the coast from Gordon's Bay to the Steenbras River mouth. The mouth itself presents a notable hazard: surf conditions can be rough, and paddlers should expect to punch through breaking waves both entering and exiting. A deep trench runs at the mouth, and the area attracts marine wildlife — whales have been observed close to paddlers in this zone, with a large dorsal fin reported near the mouth on at least one occasion.

The Steenbras Nature Reserve, which encompasses the river gorge, operates with entry hours of 07:30 to 16:00. Bookings and permits for the river gorge and Crystal Pools hikes must be arranged at least three days in advance, and the hiking trails within the reserve are typically only open from November to April. Paddlers planning to access the river from the landward side or combine paddling with exploration of the gorge should factor these restrictions into their planning. Contact for the reserve is steenbras.naturereserve@capetown.gov.za or 021 856 5605.

The river gorge contains cascading waterfalls and large mountain pools. The Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve setting means the surrounding landscape is ecologically significant, and minimal-impact principles are appropriate. Anglers are also present on the rocky promontory at the river mouth, which is worth noting when navigating the entrance.