How To Hang Out with Penguins at Boulder Beach

Is hanging out with penguins at Boulder Beacg on your Cape Town bucket list? There are only two places to see a protected colony of African penguins: Cape Town and Namibia.

Boulders Beach is one of Cape Town’s most iconic attractions. Located in the charming town of Simon’s Town, this beautiful beach has clear waters, gigantic boulders, and super cute penguins. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Boulders Beach and spending time with these delightful birds.

Where is Boulders Beach?

African Penguins at Boulders Beach, Cape Peninsula, South Africa — Photo by Cavit Gencturk

Boulders Beach is about a 40-minute drive from Cape Town. It’s located in Simon’s Town, a historic naval base along the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula. The beach is part of Table Mountain National Park, which helps to protect the penguins and their environment.

How to Get to Boulders Beach

Tourists can reach Boulders Beach by car, taxi, or public transportation. The most scenic option is the train. You can taker train from Cape Town to Simon’s Town and then catch a short taxi ride to the beach. If driving, follow the M4 (Main Road) south from Cape Town towards Simon’s Town. Guided tours are also available that include Boulders Beach as part of a Cape Peninsula day trip.

Best Time to Visit Boulders Beach

The best time to visit Boulders Beach to see the penguins is early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. Penguins can be seen at Boulders Beach all year round, but the summer months (December to February) offer the best weather for beach activities. From March to May, the breeding season is exciting as you might see penguin chicks. During the winter months (June to August), the beach is less crowded, and the cooler temperatures are perfect for exploring.

Are There Penguins All Year Round?

Yes, there are penguins at Boulders Beach throughout the year. The African penguins are permanent residents, making it a great destination regardless of when you visit.

Can You Touch the Penguins?

No, touching the penguins is not allowed. While the penguins are used to humans, they are still wild animals, and respecting their space is essential. Getting too close or trying to touch them can stress the penguins and may result in a bite or introduce disease to the colony. Visitors are encouraged to observe the penguins from a safe distance and use the boardwalks provided to view them without disturbing their natural behavior. Consider bringing binoculars.

While you may see penguins wandering on the sand at Boulders Beach, it’s crucial to maintain a respectful distance and not attempt to approach them directly. Be ready for some pretty strong smells as well.

Can You Swim at Boulders Beach?

Did you know that South Africa had such beautiful beaches? I surely didn’t. Yes, you can swim at Boulders Beach! The beach’s clear and calm waters make it a popular spot for swimming. You may even swim alongside the penguins, but keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them. Don’t forget your beach towel!

How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Penguins?

As Boulders Beach is part of Table Mountain National Park, there is an entrance fee to access the beach and view the penguins. The fee for international visitors is around ZAR 152 for adults and ZAR 76 for children (as of 2024). South African residents pay a reduced fee. These fees contribute to the conservation of the area and the protection of the penguins.

What Else Can I Do Nearby Boulders Beach?

I spent about two and a half hours at Boulder Beach before exploring some other local attractions. Adding Cape Point to your itinerary makes for an exciting day.

Admiral’s Waterfall

A serene waterfall nestled in Simon’s Town, perfect for a peaceful hike surrounded by nature.

Silvermine Nature Reserve

A beautiful part of Table Mountain National Park offers scenic trails, picnic spots, and stunning views of Cape Town. The waterfall is closer to entrance gate 2. While there, check out Elephant’s Eye Cave.

Kalky’s Seafood Restaurant

One of my tour guides recommended Kalky’s to me. It’s a popular seafood restaurant famous for its Cape-Coloured traditional dishes. Located in Kalk Bay, the most sought-after dish is fresh fish and chips.I found the food to be delicious, and the views were nice. This felt like a very authentic and local spot.

The Historic Simon’s Town

I don’t think Simon’s Town gets the love it deserves. It’s a historic naval town, full of fun things to do. If you love the ocean then I recommend spending a few days out here to go scuba diving or sun tanning on a boat.

If you’re a history-lover, visit the Simon’s Town Museum or the South African Naval Museum. There’s also a Toy Museum with a functioning toy railroad system.

The city also offers charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Cape Point

Just a short drive from Boulders Beach, Cape Point is a must-visit. Here, you can hike to the lighthouse built in 1859. There are also a few different walking trails where you can enjoy breathtaking views and spot wildlife like baboons and ostriches. Consider taking a tour if you don’t want to drive.

Seal Island

Take a boat tour from Simon’s Town to Seal Island, where you can see a large colony of Cape fur seals and, occasionally, great white sharks.

Cape of Good Hope

Visit the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, which offers beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and the chance to see wildlife like ostriches, zebras, and elands.

Whale Watching

If you visit during whale season (June to November), you can also go on a whale-watching tour from Simon’s Town, where you might spot southern right whales.

Visiting Boulders Beach is a memorable experience that combines the beauty of South Africa’s coastline with the charm of its native wildlife. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing day by the sea, Boulders Beach is a destination that should not be missed.