Boulders Penguin Colony Cape Town
Home to thousands of endangered African penguins, Boulders Beach offers a unique chance to see these charming birds waddle, swim, and nest in a stunni...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Penguins return to shore
Boulders Penguin Colony Cape Town
Best Time
Penguins return to shore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to thousands of endangered African penguins, Boulders Beach offers a unique chance to see these charming birds waddle, swim, and nest in a stunning coastal setting.
"Visiting Boulders Beach was absolutely magical. Watching the penguins waddle and swim freely was a heartwarming moment."
🚶♀️ Walk Around Them!
Penguins don't move for you! Give them space and make way, as they can be surprisingly assertive.
💰 Free Viewing Options
Explore the public pathway for free penguin sightings, bypassing the main entrance fees.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
African Penguin Colony
Boulders Beach
Witness thousands of endangered African penguins waddling, swimming, and nesting in their natural, protected habitat.
Boardwalk Views
Foxy Beach
Stroll along elevated boardwalks for excellent, up-close views of penguins without disturbing them.
Swimming with Penguins
Boulders Beach
Experience the unique thrill of swimming in the clear waters alongside curious penguins.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Penguin Encounters
Navigating Boulders Beach Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk Around Them!
Penguins don't move for you! Give them space and make way, as they can be surprisingly assertive.
💰 Free Viewing Options
Explore the public pathway for free penguin sightings, bypassing the main entrance fees.
🏊♀️ Swim with the Locals
Enjoy swimming in the bay, where curious penguins might join you in the water.
📸 Capture the Moment
Get great photos of penguins in their natural habitat, but be mindful of their space.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk Around Them!
Penguins don't move for you! Give them space and make way, as they can be surprisingly assertive.
💰 Free Viewing Options
Explore the public pathway for free penguin sightings, bypassing the main entrance fees.
🏊♀️ Swim with the Locals
Enjoy swimming in the bay, where curious penguins might join you in the water.
📸 Capture the Moment
Get great photos of penguins in their natural habitat, but be mindful of their space.
👃 Be Prepared for Scent
The penguin colony has a distinct, strong smell; it might not be comfortable for everyone to stay long.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical experience of seeing African penguins in their natural habitat at Boulders Beach, praising the adorable wildlife and breathtaking scenery. While some find the main beach access challenging, the opportunity to swim with penguins and the conservation efforts are highly appreciated. The distinct smell is a minor drawback for some.
"You will learn so much about these magnetic and majestic creatures, this is an absolute must stop. The area itself is gorgeous and the beach has truly breathtaking views. We saw a lot of wildlife in the area besides penguins, but the penguins were the highlight. While a bit emotional learning of some of the statistics about the penguins, they seem to really try to be bringing the numbers up for the population. The penguins have little “houses” to help with breeding and caring for young. The signs have a lot of information and the walk to the actual penguins themselves is a comfortable walk down a slope. The price isn’t bad and helps conservation efforts. They have bathrooms and a small gift shop at the top. The penguins themselves were very pretty and even took a dip in the ocean when we were visiting. There are two viewing spots to see the penguins themselves, both are accessible from the same area. Make a stop to see the wonderful penguins and get some great photos of them in their natural habitat!"
Amber
"A lovely spot to visit if you're excited to see penguins 🐧 in their natural habitat! However, just a heads-up they do have a strong smell, so it might not be comfortable to stay for too long.
Interestingly, if your main goal is just to see the penguins, you can spot quite a few by simply walking along the public pathway, they were clearly visible during my visit. This way, you can enjoy the experience and even save on entrance fees.
Thanks!"
QASIM ALI
"One of the happiest and most unforgettable experiences of my life! Visiting Boulders Beach was absolutely magical. Watching the penguins waddle and swim freely in their natural habitat was such a heartwarming moment. The beach is incredibly clean, and the scenery is breathtaking — from the crystal-clear turquoise water to the giant boulders that give the place its unique charm. I highly recommend visiting in the early morning for a peaceful experience and closer views of the penguins. A must-visit spot if you’re in Cape Town!"
duaa hefne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Boulders Beach from Cape Town via Uber, a hired driver, or a tour bus. Uber rides typically cost around $20 USD each way. For local transport, consider a Simon's Town company like 'On The Go'. +1
Yes, driving to Boulders Beach is generally safe. If driving from Camps Bay, consider taking the M3 for a prettier route and avoiding potentially volatile areas. Enjoy the scenery and plan for stops!
Absolutely! Boulders Beach is a popular day trip destination. You can allocate about half a day, from 10 am to 4 pm, to see the penguins and explore Simon's Town.
While Uber is an option, local transport companies like 'On The Go' in Simon's Town can provide reliable ferrying services for your excursions.
Yes, guided tours are available and can offer a more comprehensive experience, especially if you have limited time. Some tours combine Boulders Beach with other attractions like Cape Point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for the main Boulders Beach area, which contributes to conservation efforts. However, you can often see penguins for free by walking along the public pathway or visiting nearby beaches. +1
Yes, Boulders Beach is split into two areas, Foxy Beach and the main Boulders Beach, each potentially having separate entrance fees. It's advisable to check current pricing upon arrival.
South African residents can often benefit from a local entrance fee by presenting their ID. International rates apply for non-residents.
While specific hours can vary, Boulders Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. Late afternoon is recommended for penguin activity.
Advance booking is typically not required for Boulders Beach, but it's always a good idea to check the official website for any updates or special advisories, especially during peak season.
🎫 🐧 Penguin Encounters
Late afternoon is often the best time as penguins return to shore to forage. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds. Penguins are present year-round.
Yes, you can swim at Boulders Beach, and curious penguins may swim alongside you. However, access to the swimming area might require navigating some rocky terrain. +1
While generally not aggressive, penguins can bite if they feel threatened or if you get too close. It's important to maintain a respectful distance and let them pass.
At Foxy Beach, boardwalks allow viewing from a distance. For closer encounters, the main Boulders Beach area offers more natural interaction, but requires careful navigation.
Informative signs are available at the viewing areas, providing details about the penguins, their breeding habits, and conservation efforts.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The boardwalks at Foxy Beach offer good vantage points for photos. The main Boulders Beach area also provides opportunities, but be mindful of the terrain and the penguins' space.
It's generally advised to avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb the wildlife. Focus on natural light and capturing candid moments.
A camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing clear shots of the penguins from a distance. However, even smartphone cameras can capture great memories.
While there are no strict restrictions, always prioritize the penguins' well-being. Avoid intrusive behavior and respect their natural environment.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide softer light, which is ideal for photography. Golden hour can create beautiful shots of the penguins and the beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The African Penguin: A Critically Endangered Resident
This remarkable recovery is partly due to dedicated conservation efforts, including the provision of artificial 'penguin houses' to aid breeding and protect young penguins. It's a poignant reminder that while the sight of these charming, tuxedoed birds is delightful, their future in the wild is precarious. Learning about their plight and supporting conservation initiatives are integral parts of the Boulders Beach experience.
Navigating Boulders Beach: Boardwalks vs. Natural Encounters
In contrast, the main Boulders Beach area offers a more immersive, albeit challenging, experience. Here, visitors can actually swim in the bay alongside the penguins. However, accessing this area and getting close to the penguins involves navigating large granite boulders, scrambling over rocks, and potentially crawling under them.
Beyond the Penguins: The Coastal Charm of Simon's Town
The coastline itself is stunning, with the Table Mountain National Park providing a dramatic backdrop. The granite boulders that give Boulders Beach its name are part of this impressive geological landscape.
Consider extending your stay to explore other nearby attractions, such as the vibrant Kalk Bay with its artisan shops and restaurants, or the scenic drive along Chapman's Peak. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit