Zandvlei is an estuary and wetland system located on the False Bay coast near Cape Town, South Africa, forming part of the Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve. It is one of the few functioning estuary-wetland-river systems on this coastline, giving it a distinctive character that combines open vlei water with channels extending into the adjacent Marina Da Gama residential canal network. The waters are flat and sheltered, making the area well suited to beginner paddlers as well as those seeking a relaxed outing.

The western banks of the vlei host both the Peninsula Canoe Club, which runs formal time trials and training sessions, and the Imperial Yacht Club, a dinghy sailing club. The presence of sailing, windsurfing, kite surfing, and rowing activity means paddlers should be aware of shared-use conditions on the water, particularly during club training sessions and events. The Zandvlei Sports Club also operates from the vlei and manages access through a membership system administered by a club manageress; prospective members arrange registration through an online portal before gate access is activated.

A popular paddling route takes in the open vlei and then meanders through the canal channels of Marina Da Gama, where waterfront homes line the banks. Guided kayak tours depart from Promenade Road, Marina Da Gama, and are available to participants with no prior experience; a minimum age of 14 years and a maximum weight of 110 kg apply for at least some commercial offerings.

Zandvlei has 166 bird species officially recorded within the reserve, and paddlers can expect to encounter herons, kingfishers, and coots regularly. Flamingos and pelicans are present seasonally. Fishing is permitted on the vlei with a valid permit obtainable from post offices or tackle shops; catch-and-release of indigenous species such as leervis is required by law, a regulation paddlers should be aware of if fishing from a craft.

The reserve is described as one of Cape Town's more accessible paddling destinations, with the calm, enclosed nature of the estuary providing a practical environment for those new to the sport as well as a training venue for more competitive paddlers.