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Penguin Beach, located at Boulders Beach in Simon's Town, is famous for its colony of African penguins. Visitors can walk along the boardwalks, observing the penguins up close in their natural habitat. Swimming with penguins in the sheltered waters is also popular, and it's a great spot for photography and relaxing on the beach.
Boulders Penguin Colony is located in Simon's Town on the east coast of Cape Town, South Africa. This small bay called " Boulders " is home to penguins.
The spotted penguin, a species unique to South Africa, is a small penguin, weighing between 500 and 1,000 grams. It has a black ring and small black spots on its chest, and pink eye circles. It lives along the coasts of Cape Town and East London. In 1982 , local fishermen discovered the first two pairs of penguins . Thanks to the spontaneous protection of local residents , over 20 years of reproduction have resulted in a population of over 3,000 .
On Penguin Island , you can see flocks of penguins surfing, playing in the water, foraging , or simply enjoying the sun on the beach . They rely on the waves to reach shore and the waves to return. They nest in the low shrubs along the coast. Although they are afraid of people , penguins still puff out their white bellies and flutter their vestigial wings like little hands.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
76 South African rand
December 1st - January 31st : 7 : 00-19 : 30
February 1st - April 30th : 8: 00-18 : 30
May 1st - September 30th : 8: 00-17 : 00
Boulders Beach is home to one of the few African penguin colonies in the world, which has been protected since 1982. The area is significant for conservation efforts aimed at preserving the African penguin population, which has seen a dramatic decline in recent decades.
Penguin Beach is located in Simon's Town, about 40 minutes' drive from Cape Town. You can reach it by taxi, private car, or public transport (train to Simon's Town and then a short taxi ride). It’s also a popular stop for tourists on guided tours around the Cape Peninsula.
Penguin Beach is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, and to see the penguins during their most active times.
The entrance fee to the Boulders Beach penguin colony is around 160 ZAR for adults and 80 ZAR for children. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the official website.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general entry, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (November to February). You can book tickets online a few days in advance if preferred.
You can fully explore Penguin Beach in about 1 to 2 hours, including time spent walking along the boardwalk, observing the penguins, and relaxing on the beach. If you're planning to swim, you may want to add extra time.
The main highlight is the penguin colony itself, especially the penguins as they waddle on the beach and swim in the waters. The boardwalk offers several excellent viewpoints to get a closer look at the penguins. Boulders Beach itself is also a beautiful spot for relaxation.
Guided tours are available at the penguin colony, typically in English. They provide information about the penguins, conservation efforts, and the history of the site. Audio guides are also available for those wishing to explore at their own pace.
The boardwalk provides fantastic vantage points for photography, allowing close-up shots of the penguins. The best time for photos is early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is softer. The penguins on the beach or swimming in the water also make for great shots.
Start at the entrance, walk along the boardwalk to observe the penguins in their natural environment, and then continue to the beach area where you can relax and swim. The penguins are most active in the early hours, so it’s a great time to take photos and enjoy the experience.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Penguin Beach. However, the colony is a popular spot for day visits, and special tours are available during daylight hours.
The beach can be crowded during peak tourist seasons (December to February), especially in the afternoons. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or later in the day during weekdays.
The beach has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no food stalls at Penguin Beach, so it’s recommended to bring water and snacks. Nearby Simon's Town offers plenty of restaurants and cafes for meals and refreshments.
The boardwalks are accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, but the terrain around the beach can be rocky. Families with children can enjoy the beach and the penguin watching areas. The path is stroller-friendly for younger children.
Most services accept cards and mobile payments, but it's a good idea to carry some cash in case you need it for smaller shops or vendors around the area.
Simon's Town, located just a short drive away, offers a variety of restaurants and cafes, including seafood and local cuisine options. You can also find several spots offering great views of the beach and penguins.
Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options available at various restaurants in Simon’s Town and surrounding areas.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Simon's Town, offering comfortable accommodations within a short distance of Penguin Beach. Some popular options include the Simon's Town Boutique Backpackers and the Quayside Hotel.
Other nearby attractions include Boulders Beach itself, Cape Point, and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. You can easily combine these in a day trip, as they are all within a short drive of each other.
There are souvenir shops in Simon's Town, where you can find penguin-themed items, local crafts, t-shirts, and postcards to remember your visit.
After visiting Penguin Beach, you can continue your trip by car or taxi. The nearby Cape Point and other attractions are easily accessible by car, or you can join a guided tour to explore more of the Cape Peninsula.
