Simon's Town Naval Base Viewpoints
Historic naval town with charming streets, penguin colonies, and stunning False Bay views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Simon's Town Naval Base Viewpoints
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic naval town with charming streets, penguin colonies, and stunning False Bay views.
"Spectacular sighting of Port and Starboard off Simon's Town today. Amazing!"
🚗 Transport Options
Consider buses from Cape Town city center if you want to avoid driving.
🐧 Penguin Etiquette
Respect the penguins' space at Boulders Beach; do not feed or touch them. :bird:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Naval Base Ship Spotting
Red Hill Road Viewing Area
Catch impressive views of naval vessels from elevated viewpoints along Red Hill Road.
Boulders Beach Penguins
Boulders Beach
Wander among the adorable African penguins in their natural habitat. A must-see!
Charming Town Exploration
Simon's Town Main Road
Stroll through historic streets, discover unique shops, and soak in the European-like charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Naval Base Views & Beyond
Wildlife & Scenic Drives
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Transport Options
Consider buses from Cape Town city center if you want to avoid driving.
🐧 Penguin Etiquette
Respect the penguins' space at Boulders Beach; do not feed or touch them. :bird:
🐒 Baboon Awareness
Be cautious of baboons in town; secure your food and belongings. :monkey_face:
🚢 Naval Festival Chaos
Expect massive crowds and traffic during the Navy Festival; plan accordingly. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Transport Options
Consider buses from Cape Town city center if you want to avoid driving.
🐧 Penguin Etiquette
Respect the penguins' space at Boulders Beach; do not feed or touch them. :bird:
🐒 Baboon Awareness
Be cautious of baboons in town; secure your food and belongings. :monkey_face:
🚢 Naval Festival Chaos
Expect massive crowds and traffic during the Navy Festival; plan accordingly. :warning:
📸 Scenic Photo Ops
Capture stunning False Bay views from Red Hill Road viewpoints. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Simon's Town for its scenic beauty, charming atmosphere, and unique wildlife encounters, particularly the penguins. However, the Navy Festival can be overwhelmingly crowded and chaotic, with significant traffic and parking issues. Some find the parade aspect of the festival disappointing.
"Would absolutely recommend that you go to the SAN Festival I wish it was an annual event.Wasn't able to go to in the Submarine because everyone and there mother wanted to"
Mkhonto
"Impressive looks at the ships from above (the viewing area along the M 66 Red Hill Road) or while leaving the harbour on a boat.
On 28.10.2021 we captured pictures of the SAS Spioenkop looking out of our large window at Bay View Hights."
Andreas Hundt
"Navy festival was fantastic. All navy officers were very friendly and helpful."
Neshem Ramsahar (Shem)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive, take a MyCiTi bus, or a taxi/Uber. Some travelers prefer buses to avoid driving hassles.
Parking can be very challenging, especially during events like the Navy Festival.
Yes, the drive along the coast offers beautiful views of False Bay. The M66 Red Hill Road provides elevated viewpoints.
While buses connect to Simon's Town, getting around within the town might require walking or short taxi rides.
Buses from Cape Town city center are a viable option if you're looking to avoid driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The viewpoints along Red Hill Road are generally accessible without tickets, offering free public access to admire the ships.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Boulders Beach to help with conservation efforts for the penguin colony.
The Naval Museum typically has specific opening hours, which are best checked on their official website before your visit.
The Navy Festival is a notable event, but it can be extremely crowded and overwhelming.
Access to submarines might be limited and often requires booking in advance, especially during festivals.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The viewing area along M66 Red Hill Road offers impressive elevated perspectives of the ships.
Enjoy penguin viewing at Boulders Beach, explore the town's shops, and take scenic drives.
Yes, the waters around Simon's Town are popular for diving and snorkeling, offering a chance to explore marine life.
Keep your distance, do not feed them, and secure any food you have. They are common in the area.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination from Cape Town, offering a mix of history, nature, and charm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Simon's Town is known for its seafood, with several spots offering delicious fish and chips.
Yes, many restaurants cater to families, offering a relaxed dining experience with diverse menus.
Seafood is a highlight, but you'll also find a variety of international and local dishes.
Numerous charming cafes are dotted along the main road, perfect for a coffee and a pastry. :coffee:
While some restaurants can be pricey, looking for local eateries or takeaway spots can offer more affordable choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture naval ships from Red Hill Road, penguins at Boulders Beach, and the picturesque harbor.
Be mindful of restricted areas and security. Generally, public viewpoints are fine for general photography. :camerawithflash:
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the town and its surroundings. :sunrise:
Yes, but maintain a respectful distance and avoid using flash photography that could disturb them. :bird:
The Naval Museum and the ships themselves provide excellent opportunities to photograph maritime history. :ship:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Day-Trippers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The penguin colony at Boulders Beach provides endless opportunities for wildlife photography, though remember to respect their space and avoid flash. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Naval Heritage and Viewpoints
Beyond the immediate naval base, the town itself is steeped in history. The Simon's Town Naval Museum offers a deeper dive into the maritime past, showcasing artifacts and stories. For those interested in seeing ships up close, catching them entering or leaving the harbor can be a thrilling experience, though it requires some luck and timing. Remember to be aware of any restricted areas and security protocols when photographing the naval installations.
Wildlife Encounters: Penguins and Baboons
Another common sight, and one that requires a bit more caution, is the presence of baboons in and around the town. These primates are often seen wandering through residential areas and even past businesses. While they may seem accustomed to humans, it's important to remember they are wild animals. Secure your food and belongings, avoid direct eye contact, and never attempt to feed them, as this can lead to aggressive behavior.
Exploring Simon's Town: Beyond the Base
For those seeking culinary delights, Simon's Town is renowned for its seafood, particularly fish and chips. Several eateries along the waterfront and main street serve up fresh catches.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit