Simon’s Town, Cape Town - The Penguins of Simon’s Town
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Simon’s Town Cape Town

4.6
·491k reviews·Cape Town, South Africa

Historic naval town famed for its African penguin colony at Boulders Beach and scenic coastal charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings & late afternoons

Penguin activity peaks

CrowdLow
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Simon’s Town, Cape Town - The Penguins of Simon’s Town

Simon’s Town Cape Town

Best Time

Early mornings & late afternoons

Penguin activity peaks

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic naval town famed for its African penguin colony at Boulders Beach and scenic coastal charm.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Witness adorable penguins waddling on the sand and swimming in the ocean at Boulders Beach!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Train Travel for Views

Take the Metrorail Southern Line for stunning coastal scenery and a local experience. :train:

🐧 Penguin Etiquette

Observe penguins from boardwalks; do not feed or touch them. Respect their space. :bird:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Boulders Beach

Witness adorable African penguins waddling on the sand and swimming in the ocean. A truly unique wildlife experience!

Instagram+1
Scratch Patch Mineral World & Cave Golf

Scratch Patch Mineral World & Cave Golf

Scratch Patch Mineral World

Hunt for treasures in a sea of polished stones and then challenge friends to a fun round of cave golf.

TikTokInstagram
Scenic Metrorail Southern Line

Scenic Metrorail Southern Line

Southern Line, Cape Town

Enjoy breathtaking coastal views on a budget-friendly train ride through charming seaside towns.

InstagramReddit

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Simon's Town

Simon's Town is accessible via car, Uber, or the scenic Metrorail Southern Line. While Uber is convenient, it can be pricey. The train offers stunning coastal views and is a budget-friendly option, though check schedules for return trips. Reddit+2

Best Time for Penguin Encounters

Boulders Beach is home to African penguins year-round, but sightings are most active during breeding season (August to March). Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and see the penguins at their most active. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Early mornings & late afternoons
Why
Penguin activity peaks
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds at attractions
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Ideal for beach and outdoor activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A super fun date idea at Scratch Patch Mineral World and cave golf in Simon’s Town ⛳️👫 Play a round of 18 holes for just R40 per person! 📍Other Cave Golf locations: V&A Waterfront #cavegolf #dateideas #capetown #capetowntravel #cptdateideas
@cptdateideas
70.6K likes • 1.8M views

🎯 Train Travel for Views

Take the Metrorail Southern Line for stunning coastal scenery and a local experience. InstagramReddit :train:

🐧 Penguin Etiquette

Observe penguins from boardwalks; do not feed or touch them. Respect their space. Instagram+1 :bird:

If you’re looking for something affordable to do over the school holidays, hop on @metrorailwc’s viral #PeoplesTrain and enjoy some of the best coastal views around. 🚉 Take a scenic ride along the Southern Line, which winds through Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek and Simon’s Town. For under R10 per trip, depending on your starting point, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of some of Cape Tow...
lovecapetown
2.2K likes • 105.8K views
A super fundate idea lat Scratch Patch Mineral World and cave golf in Simon’s Town ⛳👭 Play a round of 18 holes for just R40 per person! 📍Other Cave Golf locations: V&A Waterfront 📹: @cptdateideas #cavegolf #dateideas #capetown #capetowntravel #cptdateideas
visit.capetown__
15.2K likes • 235.5K views

🚗 Uber vs. Train Cost

Uber is convenient but costly. The train is a budget-friendly alternative with great views. Reddit+1 :moneywithwings:

⛳ Fun at Cave Golf

Enjoy a round of 18-hole cave golf for an affordable and entertaining time. TikTokInstagram :golf:

Discover the secret gems of Simon’s Town through the eyes of the locals.🌊🐧 📍Simon’s Town, Cape Town #travelgram #citytour #simonstown #africanpenguin #bouldersbeach #oceanviews #explorer #CapeTown
pam_golding_cape_town
174 likes • 6.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Train Travel for Views

Take the Metrorail Southern Line for stunning coastal scenery and a local experience. InstagramReddit :train:

🐧 Penguin Etiquette

Observe penguins from boardwalks; do not feed or touch them. Respect their space. Instagram+1 :bird:

🚗 Uber vs. Train Cost

Uber is convenient but costly. The train is a budget-friendly alternative with great views. Reddit+1 :moneywithwings:

⛳ Fun at Cave Golf

Enjoy a round of 18-hole cave golf for an affordable and entertaining time. TikTokInstagram :golf:

🤿 Snorkeling Caution

Be aware of potential risks when snorkeling; consult local advice before entering the water. Reddit :warning:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Simon's Town for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the unique penguin colony at Boulders Beach. The scenic train journey and charming harbor add to its appeal. Some find the town a bit quiet with limited activities beyond the main attractions, and transport logistics can require planning.

What People Like

Penguin encounters at Boulders Beach
Scenic train journey
Charming harbor town

What People Dislike

Limited activities
Transport planning needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most scenic and budget-friendly option is the Metrorail Southern Line train, offering beautiful coastal views. InstagramReddit Uber is also available but more expensive. Reddit+1 The Red Bus hop-on-hop-off service is another reliable option. Reddit

Yes, Simon's Town and the journey there are generally considered safe for visitors. Reddit It's recommended to use reputable transport like Uber or the train. Reddit+1

The train journey from Cape Town city center to Simon's Town typically takes around 1.5 hours, offering a relaxed way to travel. Reddit

Yes, there are bus services available, including the Red Bus hop-on-hop-off, which is a reliable option for tourists. Reddit

It can sometimes be difficult to find an Uber in Simon's Town. Consider booking a local taxi company like 'On the Go' for reliability, though it may be more expensive. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to Boulders Beach and the penguin viewing areas is managed by SANParks and requires an entrance fee. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official SANParks website for current rates. Instagram

Scratch Patch Mineral World is typically open daily. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening hours, especially during public holidays. TikTok

A round of 18 holes at Cave Golf in Simon's Town is very affordable, costing around R40 per person. TikTokInstagram

Information on discounts for the Naval Museum is not readily available. It's recommended to check their official website or inquire directly for any potential concessions. Reddit

Yes, it's highly recommended to book snorkeling tours in Simon's Town in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Beyond Boulders Beach, explore the Simon's Town Naval Museum, enjoy a round of cave golf at Scratch Patch, or take a scenic walk along the quayside. TikTokReddit

Yes, kayaking is a popular activity in Simon's Town, offering a unique perspective of the coastline and marine life. Reddit

Snorkeling in Simon's Town can offer encounters with various marine life, including seals and diverse fish species, though caution is advised. InstagramReddit

While not extensively detailed in the provided content, there are hiking opportunities in the broader Cape Peninsula area, which Simon's Town is part of. Reddit

Simon's Town offers a charming, relaxed atmosphere with beautiful ocean views and a strong maritime heritage. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Bluedoor Coffee Roasters at Harbour Bay Mall and Light House Cafe on the main road are recommended spots for coffee lovers. Reddit

Berthas at the waterfront, Fran's at Jubilee Square, The Smokehouse, Piping Bosun, and Lighthouse Cafe are popular dining choices. Reddit

Fran's is noted for its seafood, and Brass Bell is also a consistently enjoyable dining experience. Reddit

Aegir Project is recommended for burgers and beer, and The Smokehouse also offers great craft beers and food. Reddit

Piping Bosun often has good deals on burgers and beer, making it a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the African penguins at Boulders Beach, the picturesque coastline from the train, and the charming harbor. Instagram+1

Yes, with patience and from the designated boardwalks, you can get excellent photos of the penguins in their natural habitat. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography, and also coincide with peak penguin activity. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in South Africa, especially near wildlife and residential areas. It's crucial to check local bylaws and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for general scenery and penguins. A telephoto lens can be useful for closer wildlife shots, and a wide-angle lens for expansive coastal views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Simon's Town is a fantastic destination for families. The highlight for children is undoubtedly Boulders Beach, where they can marvel at the waddling penguins. Instagram+1 Scratch Patch Mineral World offers a fun, hands-on activity where kids can dig for their own gemstones, followed by a playful round of cave golf. TikTokInstagram The train ride along the coast is also an adventure in itself, providing engaging scenery without the hassle of driving. InstagramReddit

When planning your visit, consider packing snacks and drinks, as options within the penguin viewing areas might be limited. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the water and on boardwalks. The relaxed atmosphere of Simon's Town makes it a stress-free outing for families looking for educational and entertaining experiences.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Metrorail Southern Line train is your best friend for reaching Simon's Town. It's incredibly affordable and offers spectacular views, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. InstagramReddit+1 Once in Simon's Town, Boulders Beach has an entrance fee, but it's a worthwhile investment for a unique wildlife experience. Instagram Scratch Patch Mineral World is also budget-friendly, with affordable cave golf. TikTokInstagram

Look for dining deals at places like Piping Bosun for burgers and beer. Reddit Many of the scenic walks and exploring the town's harbor area are free activities. Consider packing your own lunch and snacks to save on dining costs throughout the day.

💑 Couples

Simon's Town offers a romantic escape with its stunning coastal scenery and charming atmosphere. A scenic train ride to Simon's Town is a delightful shared experience, setting a relaxed tone for the day. InstagramReddit Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, hand-in-hand, and perhaps indulge in a seafood dinner at Fran's or enjoy the ambiance at Brass Bell. Reddit Boulders Beach provides a unique and memorable backdrop for photos and quiet observation of the penguins. Instagram+1 For a fun, lighthearted activity, a round of cave golf can add a playful element to your date. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Simon's Town

Simon's Town, nestled on the Cape Peninsula, is a historic naval base and a picturesque seaside town. Its charm lies in its blend of natural beauty, rich maritime history, and unique wildlife encounters. The town offers a more relaxed pace compared to the bustling city center of Cape Town, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer stay. Instagram Visitors often praise its scenic beauty and the friendly atmosphere. Reddit

Key attractions include the world-renowned Boulders Beach, home to a thriving colony of African penguins. Instagram+1 The town also boasts a fascinating naval museum, showcasing South Africa's maritime heritage. For those seeking a bit of fun, Scratch Patch Mineral World offers a unique gem-hunting experience, complemented by a challenging game of cave golf. TikTokInstagram

Getting to Simon's Town is part of the adventure. The Metrorail Southern Line provides a breathtaking journey along the coast, offering stunning ocean vistas and a glimpse into local life. InstagramReddit While Uber is an option, the train is often recommended for its affordability and scenic route. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters at Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is arguably the most famous attraction in Simon's Town, drawing visitors from around the globe to witness its resident African penguins. These charming flightless birds, also known as Jackass penguins due to their braying call, have made this protected area their home. Instagram+1

Visitors can observe the penguins from well-maintained boardwalks that wind through the dunes and along the coastline. This setup ensures minimal disturbance to the penguins while providing excellent viewing opportunities. The best times to see the penguins are typically in the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active, foraging for food or returning to their nests. Instagram

It's crucial for visitors to remember that these are wild animals. Feeding or touching the penguins is strictly prohibited and harmful to their well-being. Maintaining a respectful distance and adhering to the guidelines provided by park rangers ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for both humans and penguins. Instagram

Transportation Options: Train vs. Uber

Navigating to Simon's Town from Cape Town offers a choice between the iconic Metrorail Southern Line train and ride-sharing services like Uber. The train journey is highly recommended by many travelers for its unparalleled scenic beauty, winding along the coastline with dramatic ocean views. InstagramReddit It's also a significantly more budget-friendly option, costing only a few Rand per trip. Reddit

However, train schedules can be less frequent, and it's essential to check the last train times for your return journey. Reddit+1 Uber provides a more direct and potentially faster route, offering door-to-door convenience. Reddit+1 The cost of an Uber can be substantial, especially during peak hours or for longer distances. Reddit Some travelers have noted that finding an Uber for the return trip from Simon's Town can sometimes be challenging, leading them to recommend local taxi services for guaranteed reliability. Reddit

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