Simon's Town Harbour & Quayside
Charming harbour with nautical rooms, waterfront dining, and rare marine life sightings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Simon's Town Harbour & Quayside
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Charming harbour with nautical rooms, waterfront dining, and rare marine life sightings.
"Wonderful stay with a stunning harbour view and exceptionally friendly staff."
Seal Spotting Alert! :seal:
Keep an eye out for seals, especially elephant seals! They're a rare and exciting sight near the harbour.
Harbour Views Galore :camera:
Many rooms offer stunning harbour views. Perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or evening drink.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Simon's Town Harbour
Waterfront
Historic naval harbour with charming boats and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a scenic stroll.
Quayside Hotel Views
Quayside Hotel
Stunning harbour or mountain views from modern, nautical-themed rooms. Enjoy breakfast by the water.
Elephant Seal Sightings
Harbour area
Rare chance to see an elephant seal resting near the harbour. A truly unique wildlife experience.
Bertha's Restaurant
Waterfront
Enjoy fresh seafood with breathtaking harbour views. A popular spot for lunch and dinner.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Marine Life
Harbour Bay Mall Convenience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Seal Spotting Alert! :seal:
Keep an eye out for seals, especially elephant seals! They're a rare and exciting sight near the harbour. 
Harbour Views Galore :camera:
Many rooms offer stunning harbour views. Perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or evening drink.
Seafood Delights :fish:
Bertha's Restaurant is a must-visit for fresh seafood with a view.
Mall Amenities Nearby :shopping_cart:
Harbour Bay Mall has cafes and gift shops for convenience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Seal Spotting Alert! :seal:
Keep an eye out for seals, especially elephant seals! They're a rare and exciting sight near the harbour.
Harbour Views Galore :camera:
Many rooms offer stunning harbour views. Perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or evening drink.
Seafood Delights :fish:
Bertha's Restaurant is a must-visit for fresh seafood with a view.
Mall Amenities Nearby :shopping_cart:
Harbour Bay Mall has cafes and gift shops for convenience.
Walk the Wharf :walking:
Enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the Simon's Town Wharf.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for Simon's Town Harbour & Quayside are mixed, with many praising the stunning harbour views, friendly staff, and convenient location. However, some guests have reported significant issues with room maintenance, hot water, and noise disturbances, suggesting inconsistency in service quality.
"We spent two nights at the Quayside Hotel in Simon’s Town and absolutely loved our stay. Our room with a harbour view and balcony was spotless, well-equipped, and very comfortable – the view over the marina was stunning.
The staff were exceptionally friendly and attentive, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived.
A wonderful stay overall – we would definitely come back!"
André Moetz
"This hotel was an utter disappointment. The hotel owners rely on the location as a selling feature. It lacked service and quality. The suite we stayed in had damaged furniture and fittings, with the bedside light socket not secured in the wall, so I couldn't use it. The entrance light into our room was not working, and the curtain rod ends were loose, and looked like they were about to fall off.
The bathroom tiles looked dirty or stained, not sure which, and the shower rail was loose as well. The water temperature also changed mid shower for some reason, going to scolding hot.
We reported all this to the manager of the hotel once they were back on duty after the public holiday. Lastly the staff were friendly but lacked the authority to deal with concerns."
Gail Gabrielse
"There was an argument or some
fight going on in room 307 next door at 10pm. People were screaming and banging doors. I phoned down to reception from the hotel phone and there was no answer. Tried phoning several times from my cellphone as well to inform reception to get security to ask them to keep quiet yet there was No answer for half an hour! Eventually the receptionist answered and said they will check whats going on but seemed as if they already knew there was a noise commotion but weren't willing to send security upstairs! I also asked her if we should contact the police and she said she would do that for me, which is very weird, because it wasnt for me, it was the fact that there was a fight in a hotel and the staff didnt bother to care, because if the noise keeps going on its ridiculous that other guests must put up with that!!! Got no feedback whatsoever from the hotel. Seems like the receptionist was just saying that to get me off the phone and go back to sleeping or whatever it is that they were doing. People are still slamming the door an hour later at this time of the night! Its unacceptable as if if this is a damn 1 star hotel in a violent rough neighbourhood. Definitely makes it intolerable and uninviting to stay here!!!"
Yesh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Simon's Town Harbour & Quayside is accessible by car, with parking available. It's also a stop on the scenic Southern Line train route from Cape Town, offering a picturesque journey.
Yes, there are parking areas available near the harbour and Quayside Hotel. However, during peak season, it can get busy, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! The harbour area is very walkable, with a pleasant promenade and wharf to explore. It's a great way to soak in the atmosphere.
The main harbour area and promenade are generally accessible. However, some older sections or specific boats might have limited accessibility. It's best to check specific venues if you have concerns.
Many visitors opt for the train for a scenic and affordable journey. Driving offers more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore further afield.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the harbour itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely walk around and enjoy the views.
The Quayside Hotel is a private accommodation. You do not need tickets to enter the public areas around it, but booking a room is required for accommodation.
Simon's Town Harbour is always accessible as it's a working harbour. Shops and restaurants in the Quayside area typically operate during standard business hours, with some extending into the evening.
Yes, shark cage diving tours and False Bay boat trips depart from Simon's Town Harbour. It's advisable to book these in advance.
No, Harbour Bay Mall is a public shopping centre and does not have an entrance fee. You can visit its shops and cafes freely.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic walks, watch the boats, spot seals, dine at waterfront restaurants like Bertha's, and explore the Quayside area.
Yes, seals are often seen in and around the harbour. There have been rare sightings of elephant seals, which are a special treat.
The Quayside Hotel offers modern rooms with harbour or mountain views, featuring nautical-inspired interiors.
Yes, Bertha's Restaurant is highly recommended for seafood with harbour views. Harbour Bay Mall also has dining options like WCafé.
You'll see a mix of naval vessels, fishing boats, and charter boats, including those for shark cage diving.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire harbour offers great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Capture the boats, the water, and any wildlife.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light. Early mornings can also be stunning with fewer people around.
Generally, yes, but be mindful of any restricted areas or specific security protocols for naval bases.
Look for the colourful boats, reflections on the water, seabirds, and of course, any seals that might be present.
A standard zoom lens is versatile. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens can be useful. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive harbour views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Consider a boat trip for a different perspective, or simply enjoy watching the boats. Harbour Bay Mall offers convenient amenities like cafes and shops, perfect for a quick break or a treat. +1 The Quayside Hotel's harbour views can also be a source of fascination for younger visitors. ❤️ Couples
+1 Staying at the Quayside Hotel provides rooms with beautiful vistas, perfect for a relaxing getaway. 💰 Budget Travelers
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, or opt for more casual dining options available in the area. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Marine Encounters at the Harbour
The presence of these large marine mammals adds an element of surprise and wonder to any visit. Beyond seals, the waters are teeming with various fish species, making it a prime location for boat trips and observing the local marine biodiversity. For those interested in a closer encounter, shark cage diving expeditions depart from the harbour, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience to see Great White Sharks in their natural habitat.
Even if you're not participating in a dive, watching the boats depart and return can be an exciting part of the harbour experience. Remember to always maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and follow any local guidelines to ensure their safety and yours. Accommodation and Dining with a View
Guests often praise the modern, nautical-inspired interiors and the convenience of being right on the water. Many rooms feature balconies, allowing you to enjoy your morning coffee or evening sundowners with a magnificent vista. Dining at the harbour is equally rewarding. Bertha's Restaurant is a standout, celebrated for its fresh seafood and breathtaking harbour views, making it an ideal spot for lunch or dinner.
For more casual options, WCafé at Harbour Bay Mall provides a contemporary setting for brunch and coffee, catering to various tastes with veggie and vegan choices. The proximity of these eateries to the accommodation and the harbour itself makes it easy to enjoy the local flavours without venturing far. Exploring the Harbour's Atmosphere
The atmosphere is often described as peaceful and captivating, especially as the day winds down and the harbour lights begin to twinkle. The area around the harbour is also home to various gift shops and boutiques, particularly within Harbour Bay Mall, offering a chance to find unique souvenirs or local crafts.
This blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty, and modern amenities creates a well-rounded experience for visitors, whether they are staying overnight or just passing through. The presence of baboons in the vicinity also adds an unexpected, entertaining element for some visitors. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit