Tucked between the granite boulders close to the main hub of Simon’s Town lays Boulders Beach. Boulders Beach is an iconic destination for tourists and locals alike. Not only does it boast a beautiful white, sandy beach and crystal blue waters; but it’s also home to some quirky avian inhabitants…
The friendly Penguin Colony
Approximately 3000 African Penguins call Boulders Beach home. Also known as Jackass Penguins, these birds made their way to area in 1982 after migrating from Dyer island, near Gansbaai.
Though Boulders Beach provides a great base to start your birdie adventures from, taking a walk on the wheelchair-friendly boardwalks to the lesser known Foxy Beach offers the best views of the penguins.
When to Visit
Although you’ll be able to see penguins all year round, we recommend visiting in January when the baby birds moult their feathers on the beach. Between September and October most of the birds spend their time at sea, feeding. Early mornings or late afternoons in Summer are when the birds are at their most active.
Entry Fee & Operating Hours
The penguins of Boulders Beach are protected as part of the Table Mountain National Park conservation program. A small entry/conservation fee applies when visiting Boulders Beach.
Entry Fee:
- R76 per Adult
- R41 per Child
*Please note tariff increase from 1 November 2018
- R152 per Adult, R76 per child (standard fee)
- R76 per adult, R39 per child (South African passport holders)
Tickets can be bought at the small ticketing office on-site.
Operational Hours:
- Dec – Jan: 07h00 – 19h30
- Feb – April: 08h00 -18h30
- May – Sept: 08h00 – 17h00
- Oct – Nov: 08h00 – 18h30
Join us on our Cape Point & Peninsula Day Tour and visit the Penguins of Boulders Beach! Other stops on this tour include the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Chapman’s Peak, a cruise to Duiker Island from Houtbay and many more scenic stops.