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Swim with Penguins at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town

Boulders Beach: Cape Town’s Penguin Sanctuary

Discover Boulders Beach in Cape Town, South Africa—home to a rare African penguin colony. Plan your visit, swim in calm bays, and explore Simon’s Town.

Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town – A Penguin-Lover’s Paradise Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach, Cape Town – Visit the African Penguin Colony in Simon’s Town

Located just outside Simon’s Town on the False Bay coastline, Boulders Beach is one of South Africa’s most unique destinations. It’s home to a protected colony of endangered African penguins, offering visitors a rare opportunity to observe these charismatic seabirds up close in a natural habitat.

Framed by massive 540-million-year-old granite boulders and known for its calm, shallow waters, Boulders Beach is perfect for families, photographers, and nature lovers.

What Makes Boulders Beach Special?

  • African Penguin Colony
    This is one of only a few places in the world where you can view penguins on a public beach. The colony has grown from just two breeding pairs in 1982 to more than 2,000 today.

  • Family-Friendly Swimming
    The beach’s sheltered coves offer warm, gentle water—ideal for safe swimming and great for children. On quiet days, penguins may even swim nearby.

  • Boardwalk Penguin Viewing
    Raised wooden walkways at nearby Foxy Beach allow visitors to observe penguins as they nest, waddle, and feed, all without disturbing their natural environment.

  • Diverse Coastal Wildlife
    Besides penguins, you might spot rock hyraxes (dassies), seabirds, and even whales offshore during the right season.

Best Time to Visit

  • All year round: Penguins can be seen daily, but activity is highest in summer.

  • January: Great for viewing juvenile penguins during their molting season.

  • September & October: Fewer birds visible, as many are out feeding at sea.

  • Best hours: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds.

Location & Access

  • Where: Kleintuin Road, Simon’s Town, about 45 minutes from Cape Town via the M4 coastal road.

  • Parking: Available but limited—arrive early during summer and holidays.

  • Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly boardwalks available at Foxy Beach.

Entrance Fees

View entrance fees here. Tip: The site operates on a cashless system—bring a card or use a Wild Card if available.

Facilities

  • Public restrooms and showers

  • Shaded picnic spots

  • Ranger assistance

  • Visitor centre

  • No smoking or alcohol permitted

Conservation Matters

The African penguin is critically endangered, with populations declining due to overfishing and habitat loss. Boulders Beach plays a key role in conservation, managed by SANParks and supported by wildlife organizations that work to protect the species and its ecosystem.

Visitor Tips

  • Arrive early for easy parking and a peaceful experience.

  • Bring sunblock, swimwear, and water—Cape Town summers can be hot.

  • Stay on marked walkways and keep a safe distance from all wildlife.

  • Make a day of it: explore nearby Simon’s Town, visit naval museums, or take a boat tour.

Boulders Beach is one of Cape Town’s most iconic attractions—combining pristine coastline, family-friendly activities, and an unforgettable chance to walk among wild African penguins. Don’t miss it when planning your South African adventure.

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