Tucked into the jagged cliffs of a rocky shoreline, a small cave lies concealed behind towering, finger-like stones jutting from the sea. A curtain of thick, hanging seaweed veils its entrance, swaying gently with the rhythm of the waves. Upon closer inspection, the seaweed appears torn and tattered in places, as though disturbed by the passage of a small craft.
The rocky seafloor beneath your vessel gradually shifts to a sandy incline, leading upward beyond the wall of vegetation. Below the water’s surface, three large fish circle expectantly, their gaze fixed upon you as if anticipating scraps of food. A rowboat pulled ashore on a strip of damp sand signals that others may have already claimed this cave as their haven.
The entrance is wide enough to admit a small rowboat, though the tight rocks and low ceiling make it impassable for larger or masted ships. Calm waters offer easy passage, but navigating this approach in rough seas or stormy weather would demand a skilled hand at the oars.
Within the cave, the walls glisten with moisture, their smooth stone surfaces adorned with streaks of algae and clusters of marine life. Watermarks high on the walls indicate the entrance is submerged at high tide. Deeper inside, the air becomes cooler, and the stone walls rise above the reach of the tides, becoming drier and rougher to the touch.
The faint, warm glow of lit braziers scattered throughout the cavern provides ample light to navigate by. Their steady flames flicker against the walls, casting shifting shadows that hint at movement deeper within the cave—a foreboding reminder that you are likely not alone.
Using the Seaside Caves in Your Session
This secluded bandit cave offers a wealth of storytelling potential, whether the party stumbles upon it by chance or is directed here with purpose. Before running this location, consider two key questions: how did the party come to find this cave, and who else is inside, and why?
Perhaps the cave serves as a temporary hideout for smugglers, pirates, or another nefarious group, or maybe it holds something entirely unexpected, such as hidden tunnels connecting to the sea or alliances with aquatic creatures. Below are several encounter ideas to help bring this location to life and immerse your players in its mysteries.
The Smuggler’s Stash
The party discovers the cave while tracking down rumors of illegal trade in the region. Inside, they find a group of smugglers unloading crates filled with contraband—rare spices, precious stones, or illicit weapons. The smugglers are wary but willing to negotiate if the party proves they aren’t a threat. Alternatively, a fight may break out if the group’s presence is perceived as hostile. To add complexity, one of the smugglers may recognize a party member, creating an unexpected connection or complication.
Secrets Beneath the Surface
While exploring the pools within the cave, the party uncovers hidden underwater tunnels leading to the open sea. As they investigate, they are ambushed by aquatic creatures working in tandem with the smugglers or pirates. These creatures could be merfolk seeking to protect their waters, or monstrous sea-dwellers with sinister goals. The tunnels could also hold an ancient artifact or treasure, providing a compelling reward if the party survives the ordeal.
The Fisher King’s Demand
The cave is not just a hideout but a sacred meeting place for a local sea deity or powerful aquatic entity. The smugglers are paying tribute to this being, offering stolen goods or sacrifices in exchange for safe passage and protection. The party stumbles into a tense ritual and must decide whether to disrupt it, negotiate with the deity or its followers, or simply observe the proceedings and deal with the consequences later.