The Traveling Taylors

When we first heard you could see penguins in Cape Town, we thought it was a joke. Penguins? On sunny beaches in Africa? But yes—it’s true. Cape Town penguins are one of the city’s most unique wildlife experiences, and you don’t even need to leave the coast to spot them. Here’s your guide to the best places to see these tuxedoed locals up close.

Why Are There Penguins in Cape Town?

Cape Town’s famous penguins are African penguins, sometimes called “jackass penguins” because of their donkey-like bray. Once endangered, their colonies are now protected along South Africa’s coast. The warm climate doesn’t bother them—they’re perfectly adapted to sandy beaches and rocky coves. Travelers who want to capture stunning photos of these African penguins like bringing a compact selfie stick tripod like this one so they can easily capture photos without asking strangers.

1. Boulders Beach: The Most Famous Penguin Spot

• 📍 Location: Simon’s Town (about 45 minutes from Cape Town CBD)
• 💸 Entry Fee (2025): R190 for international adults, R95 for children (local rates are lower)
• 🐧 What to Expect: Wooden boardwalks lead you right into the colony. You’ll see hundreds of penguins waddling, nesting, or sunbathing. The protected swimming beach next door lets you share the water with a few penguins—if they choose to join you. Lightweight sunscreen sprays like this one are an easy way to stay protected while swimmig and waiting for the penguins to join you.

Pro Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and midday heat. Without a car, the easiest option is to join a full-day Cape Point & Boulders penguins tour from Cape Town that includes the colony and the Cape of Good Hope.

2. Foxy Beach: Up-Close Viewing

• 📍 Next to Boulders Beach
• 💸 Included in Boulders entry fee
• 🐧 What to Expect: Foxy Beach is the best spot for photography. The viewing platforms put you right above the penguin pathways. For travelers who want high-quality photos and videos during their trip, a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one is a popular choice among content creators and travel photographers.

Quick Tip: Stay on the walkways—the penguins are wild animals, and bites hurt!

3. Stony Point Nature Reserve (Betty’s Bay)

• 📍 About 90 minutes east of Cape Town
• 💸 Entry Fee: R30 for adults, R20 for children
• 🐧 What to Expect: A quieter, less touristy colony than Boulders. You’ll walk along a boardwalk built over the rocky coastline with stunning ocean views. Comfortable shoes are essential when walking along the boardwalk, and many travelers recommend supportive walking sneakers like these for full days of sightseeing.

Why Go: It’s cheaper, calmer, and you’ll likely see just as many penguins—without tour buses.

4. Robben Island (Surprise Spot)

• 📍 Accessible by ferry from V&A Waterfront
• 🐧 What to Expect: While visiting the historic prison site, keep an eye out along the shoreline. Small groups of penguins often swim near the island.

Note: Penguins aren’t the main attraction here, but it’s a bonus if you spot them.

When Is the Best Time to See Cape Town Penguins?

• 🐣 Breeding Season: March–May is when you’ll see fluffy chicks.
• 🪶 Molting Season: November–January, when penguins shed old feathers and look scruffy (but still adorable).
• ☀️ Year-Round: Penguins don’t migrate, so you’ll always see some at the colonies.

Tips for Visiting Penguins in Cape Town

• ✅ Bring binoculars for close-up views without crowding the birds.
• ✅ Pack sunscreen and water—there’s little shade at Boulders. Because you’ll likely be outside at the beach swimming or watching the penguins, wearing UV-protective sunglasses like these can help keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day.
• ✅ Respect the rules: no touching, chasing, or feeding.
• ✅ Book transport or go with a guided tour if you don’t have a car.

Cape Town Penguins

Seeing Cape Town penguins up close is one of those pinch-me travel moments—where else can you swim at the beach alongside wild penguins? Whether you head to the famous Boulders Beach or the quieter Stony Point, this experience is a must on any Cape Town itinerary.

Planning your trip? Pair your penguin day with our Cape Town Kloof Street guide for the perfect mix of nature and nightlife.

Headed to the star colony? Read our full Cape Town Boulders Beach guide, and don’t miss the 7 things no one tells you about Cape Town penguins before you go.