When most people think of penguins, they imagine icy landscapes and freezing temperatures. But in South Africa, a charming colony of African penguins has claimed prime oceanside real estate at Boulder Beach, basking in the sun instead of braving the bitter cold. Located in Simon’s Town, just a 40-minute drive from Cape Town, this one of the best places to see these adorable creatures up close in their natural habitat.
When to go
Boulder Beach is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the South African summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm, and the penguins are often out sunbathing. If you want to see them nesting, visit between March and May when they lay their eggs. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to avoid crowds and catch the penguins at their most active.
To get there
To get to Boulders Beach from Cape Town, drive approximately 45 minutes (40 km) south via the M3 or M4, then follow signs through Simon’s Town to the Boulders Beach parking area. Alternatively, take a scenic train ride to Simon’s Town and grab a quick taxi or walk 2 km to the entrance.
- Location: Simon’s Town, Cape Peninsula, South Africa
- Distance from Cape Town: Approx. 40-minute drive
- Transport: You can drive, take a guided tour, or use public transport like the train and taxi services.
About Boulder Beach & the Penguins
Boulder Beach is a stunning coastal destination located in Simon’s Town, South Africa. The beach is known for its granite boulders, which protect the area from strong currents and waves, creating calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
To get an up-close look at the penguins, visitors can explore the Boulders Penguin Colony, which is managed by Table Mountain National Park. A small entry fee is required, which helps with penguin conservation efforts. There are designated viewing platforms to watch these adorable birds in their natural habitat while ensuring their safety. I brought a hefty zoom lens to get some images of these cute little guys.
African penguins, sometimes called “jackass penguins” due to their braying call, are currently an endangered species. Conservation efforts are in place to help repopulate their numbers, and visiting Boulder Beach directly supports these initiatives. The entrance fee grants access to designated viewing decks, ensuring a safe and respectful way to observe these birds while contributing to their protection.
As of early 2025, the African penguin population has experienced a dramatic decline, with fewer than 10,000 breeding pairs remaining in the wild. This represents a staggering 97% decrease from their numbers in the early 20th century.
These little penguins may look cute and clumsy on land, but they are incredibly agile in the water. They can reach impressive speeds while swimming, hold their breath for over two minutes, and dive more than 400 feet deep to catch prey such as sardines, anchovies, and crustaceans. Watching them dart through the waves is a fascinating sight that showcases their remarkable hunting skills.
A visit to Boulder Beach is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or just someone who loves animals, this is a must-visit destination in South Africa. Plus, with its stunning scenery of large granite boulders, white sand, and turquoise waters, it’s a picture-perfect spot to spend the day.
Planning a trip to Cape Town? Don’t miss out on this unique wildlife encounter! Check out more of my blog posts on Cape Town.
Boulder Beach Guided Tours
Explore Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope
If you want to make it into a road trip, just a 30-minute drive south of Simon’s Town, Cape Point Nature Reserve boasts dramatic cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse. You can hike or take the funicular to the top for breathtaking ocean views. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife like baboons, ostriches, and even antelope. While often mistaken as the southernmost point of Africa, it is actually the southwesternmost point, marking where early explorers first rounded the continent on their way to India.
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