Boulders Beach
Simon\’s Town · Cape Peninsula
About Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach is a sheltered cove near Simon\’s Town on the Cape Peninsula, famous for its resident colony of over 3,000 African penguins. One of the few places in the world where you can get up close to these endangered penguins in their natural habitat. The beach is named after the enormous granite boulders that create a calm, sheltered swimming area. Located where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, it offers a truly unique wildlife experience just 45
minutes from Cape Town city centre.
- 📍 Simon\’s Town · Cape Peninsula
- 🗓 Best Season: October ~ March
- 💰 Entrance Fee: R 200 / Adult
- 🧭 Guided Tour: Available
- 📏 Colony: 3,000+ Penguins
- ⭐ Difficulty: Easy
Activities & Experiences
Penguin Watching
Get up close to African penguins in their natural habitat
Snorkelling
Crystal clear waters perfect for snorkelling with penguins
Cycling Tours
Cycle along the scenic Cape Peninsula coastline
Swimming
Sheltered calm waters perfect for safe swimming
Photography
Capture stunning shots of penguins and granite boulders
Best Time to Visit
Summer
October ~ March ⭐ Best Time
Peak penguin breeding season
warm weather perfect for swimming
Best for Penguins
Autumn
April ~ May
Fewer crowds mild temperatures excellent for photography
Less Crowded
Winter
June ~ August
Cool weather penguins
very active and playful
Best for Photography
Spring
September ~ November
Baby penguins hatching
warm weather returning
Best for Baby Penguins
How to Get There
By Air
Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is approximately 45 minutes drive from Boulders Beach via the M3 and M4 coastal road.
By Road
From Cape Town take the M3 south towards Simon\’s Town. Follow signs to Boulders Beach. Parking available at the entrance. Alternatively take the scenic Chapman\’s Peak Drive route.
Practical Information
- 🕐 Hours: 08:00 – 17:00
- 📞 Tel: +27 21 786 2329
- 🌐 www.sanparks.org
- 💳 Online Booking Available
- 🌊 Safe swimming area for children
Explore Cape Peninsula in a 4×4
Boulders Beach is just one of many incredible stops on the Cape Peninsula 4×4 route. Drive from Cape Town through Simon\’s Town to Cape Point exploring hidden coastal tracks along the way. Visit the penguin colony at Boulders Beach then continue to Cape Point for dramatic ocean views. A 4×4 gives you the freedom to explore the entire Cape Peninsula at your own pace stopping wherever takes your fancy.
Ready to Explore South Africa?
Start your journey through South Africa\’s most spectacular natural wonders today.