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.
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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. When visiting Boulders Beach, many travelers like bringing a compact selfie stick tripod like this one so they can easily capture photos without asking strangers.
🚗 How to Get There: Rent a car for the most flexibility, or join a full-day Cape Point & Boulders penguins tour from Cape Town that bundles the penguin colony with Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. If you plan to rent a car, a hands-free phone mount like this one can make it much easier to follow GPS directions safely while driving.
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. Comfortable shoes are essential when walking on the boardwalk at Foxy Beach, and many travelers recommend supportive walking sneakers like these for full days of sightseeing. - 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. While enjoying your picnic on the sand, protecting your skin is important. Many travelers choose high-SPF sunscreen sprays like this one for extra protection against strong UV rays. - 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. Stay protected in any weather with this lightweight women’s rain jacket featuring waterproof, windproof, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant fabric designed for all-day comfort and durability.
- 🧴 Sunscreen is a must, even on cloudy days. Protecting your skin from the sun is essential, and many travelers rely on SPF 50 sunscreen spray like this one for quick and easy coverage.
- 🍴 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.
Want the insider view? Read the 7 things no one tells you about Boulders Beach, and see how it stacks up against other spots in our guide to the Cape Town penguins.
