The coastal river systems on the south-west coast of South Africa from Cape Columbine to Cape Point were surveyed during October and November 1993. The ichthyofaunal and physico-chemical characteristics of each system are presented and their suitability as estuarine nursery areas is discussed. Of the 16 coastal systems sampled along this coast, eight are seasonal streams which, due to their ephemeral nature, offer little permanent habitat for fishes. One system is severely altered; it has been canalised and receives both domestic and industrial effluents. Six systems have permanent water but their fish fauna appears to be restricted and they probably have a limited estuarine nursery potential. Only one system appears to serve a viable estuarine nursery function for fishes.