Few experiences in Cape Town compare to standing just meters away from a colony of African penguins. Nestled between giant granite boulders in Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach is one of the city’s most famous attractions—and for good reason. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Cape Town Boulders Beach.
Get To Know The Traveling Taylors!
Where Is Boulders Beach?
Boulders Beach is located in Simon’s Town, about a 45-minute drive from Cape Town’s city center. It forms part of Table Mountain National Park, making it a protected area for the penguins that call it home.
🚗 How to Get There: Rent a car for the most flexibility, or join a Cape Peninsula day tour that includes Boulders Beach, Cape Point, and Chapman’s Peak Drive.
Boulders Beach Entry Fees (2026)
As of 2026, the SANParks entry fees are:
- International Visitors: R245 adults | R120 children
- South African Residents: R55 adults | R26 children
- SADC Nationals: R110 adults | R55 children
🎟 Tip: Your ticket covers both Boulders Beach (where you can swim) and Foxy Beach (where boardwalks bring you close to the penguin colony).
Best Time to Visit Boulders Beach
- Morning (before 9 AM): Quietest time, best light for photos.
- Late Afternoon (after 4 PM): Fewer crowds, softer golden light.
- Year-Round: Penguins live here permanently, but numbers vary.
🐣 Breeding Season (Mar–May): Expect fluffy chicks.
🪶 Molting Season (Nov–Jan): Penguins shed feathers and look scruffy but are still active.
What to Do at Boulders Beach
- Walk the Boardwalks at Foxy Beach
Perfect for photography—you’ll see penguins waddling, nesting, and swimming in groups. - Swim at Boulders Beach
A sheltered cove where penguins sometimes swim past visitors. The water is cold but unforgettable. - Picnic on the Sand
The large granite boulders create natural windbreaks and private nooks. - Spot Marine Life
Keep an eye out for dassies (rock hyraxes), seabirds, and even the occasional seal.
Important Rules to Know
- ❌ No touching or feeding penguins—they are wild animals with sharp beaks.
- ❌ Don’t cross fences or block penguin pathways.
- ✅ Stay on designated boardwalks for the best views.
- ✅ Keep voices low and movements calm—the penguins spook easily.
Tips for Visiting Boulders Beach
- 📷 Bring a zoom lens for close-up shots without crowding the birds.
- 🧥 Pack a light jacket—the wind can pick up unexpectedly.
- 🧴 Sunscreen is a must, even on cloudy days.
- 🍴 Combine your trip with lunch in Simon’s Town or fish and chips at Kalk Bay.
Cape Town Boulders Beach
Visiting Cape Town Boulders Beach is one of the most unique wildlife encounters you’ll find anywhere—penguins, on a sunny African beach. Go early, respect the rules, and you’ll leave with incredible photos and even better memories.
