Boulders Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach located in Simon’s Town, a historic town situated on the east coast of the Cape Peninsula in Cape Town, South Africa. The beach is famous for its colony of African penguins, which makes it a unique and interesting place to visit. Boulders Beach is a beautiful and serene location, surrounded by large granite boulders that provide shelter and privacy to the beach.
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The main attraction of Boulders Beach is the Boulders penguin colony, which is one of the only mainland breeding colonies of these beautiful creatures. Visitors can get up close and personal with the penguins, as they roam freely on the beach and the surrounding area. The penguins are friendly and curious, and will often approach visitors, making for a memorable and unique experience. Visitors can also watch the penguins from the boardwalks that wind through the dunes and the vegetation.
Aside from the penguin colony, Boulders Beach Cape Town is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The beach is sheltered from the wind and the waves, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors can rent beach chairs and umbrellas, and there are plenty of picnic spots, braai and shaded areas to enjoy. The crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming, and there are also plenty of opportunities for snorkelling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
The surrounding area of Boulders Beach is also worth exploring. Simon’s Town is a quaint and historic town, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can take a walk through the town, visit the naval base, or explore the nearby nature reserves. Just a short drive away, visitors can also visit the Cape of Good Hope, which is one of the most spectacular natural landmarks in South Africa. The Cape of Good Hope is known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and hiking trails.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the penguin colony, which provides a fascinating insight into the life and habits of these charming creatures. There are also plenty of water-based activities to enjoy, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkelling. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hiking trails and cycling routes in the area.
Boulders Beach is a unique and beautiful location, with plenty to see and do. The penguin colony is a must-see attraction, and the beach and surrounding area provide plenty of opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and exploration. Whether you’re looking to spend a day at the beach, explore the historic town of Simon’s Town, or take a hike in the nearby nature reserves, Boulders Beach is a fantastic destination that is sure to impress. So if you’re visiting Cape Town, make sure to add Boulders Beach to your itinerary.
Boulders Beach Entrance Fee
These entry fees help support the maintenance and conservation efforts of Boulders Beach, home to a unique colony of African penguins, making it an enjoyable destination for visitors from various backgrounds. Boulders Beach charges different entry fees based on the visitor’s nationality and residency status:
- For South African citizens and residents with valid identification, the entry fee is R44 per adult per day and R22 per child per day.
- SADC (Southern African Development Community) nationals, with a valid passport, are charged R88 per adult per day and R44 per child per day.
- International visitors, categorized as non-residents, are subject to a standard conservation fee of R176 per adult per day and R88 per child per day.
Things to do at Boulders Beach
- Visit Boulders penguin colony: Observe the penguins in their natural habitat, and learn about their life and behaviour through guided tours.
- Relax on the beach: Enjoy the sheltered bay, crystal-clear water, and soft sand, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
- Explore the town of Simon’s Town: Take a walk through the historic town, visit the naval base, and sample the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes.
- Discover the surrounding area: Take a hike in the nearby nature reserves, visit the Cape of Good Hope or go on a whale-watching tour.
- Water-based activities: Try kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling, or scuba diving to explore the rich marine life of the area.
- Birdwatching: Aside from the penguins, the surrounding area is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a great location for birdwatching.
- Photography: With its stunning scenery and unique wildlife, Boulders Beach is a great location for photographers looking to capture some great shots.
- Enjoy a sunset picnic: The beach is a popular spot for romantic sunset picnics, with stunning views of the sun setting behind the mountains.
- Learn about the local history: The area is steeped in history, with numerous landmarks and museums to explore, such as the Simon’s Town Museum and the Just Nuisance statue, commemorating the famous Great Dane who was a mascot of the Royal Navy.
- Shop for souvenirs: The town is home to many local shops and markets where visitors can find unique souvenirs, arts and crafts, and locally made goods.
Visiting Boulders Beach is a great way to experience the beauty and wildlife of South Africa in a unique and memorable way. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the town and surrounding areas, or get up close and personal with some of the world’s most charming creatures, Boulders Beach has something for everyone. With its crystal-clear waters, stunning scenery, and friendly penguins, it’s no wonder that Boulders Beach is one of the most popular attractions in Cape Town.
Website: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/tourism/tariffs.php
Address: Kleintuin Rd, Simon’s Town, Cape Town, 799
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 5 pm
Phone: 021 786 2329
FAQ
- Q – What type of penguins can be found at Boulders Beach?
A – Boulders Beach is home to a colony of African penguins, also known as Cape penguins. These charismatic penguins, with their black and white plumage, can be observed up close in their natural habitat. - Q – Can I swim with the African penguins at Boulders Beach?
A – No, swimming with the African penguins is not permitted at Boulders Beach to ensure their safety and minimize disturbance to their natural habitat. However, visitors can still enjoy observing and admiring these fascinating birds from designated viewing areas. - Q – Are guided tours available at Boulders Beach to learn more about the African penguins?
A – Yes, guided tours are available at Boulders Beach, providing visitors with informative insights about the African penguins, their habitat, and the conservation efforts undertaken in the area. Knowledgeable guides can enhance your experience and answer any questions you may have. - Q – What is the best time to visit Boulders Beach to see the African penguins?
A – The best time to visit Boulders Beach to see the African penguins is during the early mornings or late afternoons when they are most active. It is advisable to check the weather and plan your visit accordingly. Additionally, weekdays are generally less crowded compared to weekends, allowing for a more peaceful and intimate experience with these captivating creatures.
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