Windmill Beach
A serene cove with calm, clear waters protected by boulders, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying penguin views nearby.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch sunrise
Windmill Beach
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch sunrise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene cove with calm, clear waters protected by boulders, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying penguin views nearby.
"This charming small beach is ideal for families with kids. The large boulders surrounding the beach provide calm water."
🚗 Parking Pointers
Arrive early! Parking is tough. Consider parking at Boulders & walking. :car:
🤿 Snorkel Gear Rental
Rent snorkel gear from Impact Divers nearby for clear water exploration. :fishingpoleand_வத:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Calm Waters for Swimming & Snorkeling
Windmill Beach
Protected by large boulders, the waters are calm and clear, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Proximity to Penguin Colony
Adjacent to Boulders Beach
Just a short stroll from the famous Boulders Beach, offering a chance to see African penguins in their natural habitat.
Sunrise Serenity
Windmill Beach
Experience breathtaking sunrises from this quiet beach, a perfect start to the day before the crowds arrive.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Parking
Snorkeling & Penguin Pairings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pointers
Arrive early! Parking is tough. Consider parking at Boulders & walking. 
🤿 Snorkel Gear Rental
Rent snorkel gear from Impact Divers nearby for clear water exploration.
🐧 Penguin Bonus
Walk from Boulders Beach for free penguin views before paying entry. :penguin:
🌅 Sunrise Spectacle
Early risers get the best sunrises and a peaceful beach experience. :sunrise:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pointers
Arrive early! Parking is tough. Consider parking at Boulders & walking.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Rental
Rent snorkel gear from Impact Divers nearby for clear water exploration.
🐧 Penguin Bonus
Walk from Boulders Beach for free penguin views before paying entry. :penguin:
🌅 Sunrise Spectacle
Early risers get the best sunrises and a peaceful beach experience. :sunrise:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Waters
Calm, boulder-protected waters are ideal for kids' swimming and play.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Windmill Beach for its exceptionally calm and clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Its proximity to penguin colonies and beautiful sunrise views are major highlights. While parking can be a significant challenge, the serene atmosphere and family-friendly conditions make it a beloved spot.
"Been living in Cape Town all my life and only discovered this place yesterday. Wow!
Parking may be an issue if you go too late. Tried out my new TG 7 and phenomenal views from the water.
New Saturday morning spot me thinks."
Mo Alli
"Beautiful quiet beach, great for swimming, snorkeling and supping."
leanne bayhack
"This charming small beach is ideal for families with kids. The large boulders surrounding the beach provide calm water as it blocks strong waves and winds. While parking nearby can be a challenge, we discovered a pleasant alternative: parking at Boulders and strolling along the scenic 5-minute boardwalk, which offers a bonus - free viewing of adorable penguins!"
Jandri du Preez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Windmill Beach is located in Simon's Town, about a 45-minute drive from Cape Town CBD. You can drive your own car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services. Be prepared for potential parking challenges, especially on weekends. +1
While direct public transport to Windmill Beach itself might be limited, you can take a train to Simon's Town station and then enjoy a scenic walk or a short taxi ride to the beach.
Many visitors recommend parking at Boulders Beach and taking the short, scenic 5-minute boardwalk to Windmill Beach. This also offers a chance to see penguins for free.
Windmill Beach is situated just past Simon's Town, often mentioned in conjunction with Boulders Beach. Following signs for Boulders Beach will lead you to the general area. +1
Yes, the most famous nearby attraction is Boulders Beach, home to a colony of African penguins. You can also explore the charming town of Simon's Town with its shops and restaurants. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Windmill Beach itself is generally free to access. However, if you choose to park at Boulders Beach, there is an entry fee for the penguin viewing area.
Windmill Beach does not have official opening hours as it's a public beach. However, for the best experience and to avoid crowds, visiting during daylight hours is recommended. Early mornings offer stunning sunrises.
Yes, Boulders Beach has an entrance fee, which contributes to the conservation of the penguin colony. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official SANParks website for current rates.
While you can see penguins from Windmill Beach (and Boulders Beach), swimming directly with them is not permitted to protect the wildlife. However, you can swim in the calm waters of Windmill Beach.
As a natural beach, there are no specific entry restrictions. However, it's important to respect the environment, avoid littering, and maintain a safe distance from any wildlife.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Windmill Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding due to its calm and clear waters. It's also a great spot for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
Absolutely! The large boulders create a safe, calm swimming area ideal for children. It's a much more relaxed environment than some of Cape Town's more exposed beaches.
The water is generally calm, clear, and slightly warmer than other beaches in the area due to the protection offered by the surrounding boulders.
Yes, there are ablution blocks available at Windmill Beach, making it convenient for longer visits.
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and snorkeling gear if you have it. Water shoes can be helpful for navigating the rocky areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunrise shots, the unique boulder formations, and the clear waters perfect for underwater photography. The proximity to penguins also offers great photo ops.
While drone usage regulations can vary, the open space and scenic views make it a potentially good spot. Always check local drone laws before flying.
Early morning for sunrise and soft light, and late afternoon for golden hour before sunset. Midday can be harsh but offers great clarity for underwater shots.
You can often see penguins from Windmill Beach, and definitely at the adjacent Boulders Beach. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid using flash photography.
The large, weathered boulders that give the beach its character are iconic. The contrast of the blue water against the rocks and the distant coastline makes for beautiful shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a stroll to Boulders Beach to see the adorable African penguins – a guaranteed hit with kids! You can often spot penguins from Windmill Beach too. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and snacks for a perfect family day out. The nearby ablution facilities add to the convenience.
🐠 Snorkelers and Divers
Rent your gear from local dive shops like Impact Divers before heading to the beach. The boulder-lined seabed offers interesting formations and a good chance to see various fish species. It's a popular spot for snorkelers, so you'll likely find others enjoying the same activity.
📸 Photographers
Capture the serene atmosphere, the interplay of light on the water, and the unique coastal landscape. If you're lucky, you might even get shots of penguins in the water or on the nearby shore. Early morning light is particularly magical here.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Simon's Town Beaches
Many visitors are drawn to Windmill Beach for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The clear waters and the natural reef-like formations created by the boulders provide a fascinating underwater world to explore. It's a popular spot for both casual snorkelers and more experienced divers. The beach also offers a more tranquil experience compared to its famous neighbor, Boulders Beach, making it a favorite for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Beyond its aquatic appeal, Windmill Beach offers stunning natural scenery. The surrounding landscape provides a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing day. It's a place where you can truly unwind, listen to the gentle lapping of waves, and enjoy the South African sunshine. The convenience of nearby amenities, like ablution blocks, adds to its appeal for a full day out.
Penguin Encounters and Conservation
Boulders Beach is a protected area managed by SANParks, and an entrance fee is charged to help fund conservation efforts for these endangered birds. Visitors are educated on how to observe the penguins responsibly, maintaining a safe distance and refraining from feeding them or using flash photography. This ensures the well-being of the penguins while allowing people to witness these charismatic creatures up close.
Many visitors find the experience of seeing penguins in their natural habitat incredibly rewarding. The short boardwalk at Boulders Beach provides excellent viewing points, and the penguins are often seen waddling along the sand or swimming in the ocean. It's a unique wildlife encounter that adds a special dimension to a trip to Windmill Beach and the surrounding False Bay area.
Navigating Parking and Access
Fortunately, there's a highly recommended alternative: parking at the main Boulders Beach parking area and taking a short, scenic 5-minute walk along a boardwalk to Windmill Beach. This approach not only guarantees access but also provides the added bonus of potentially seeing penguins for free along the way. This tip is frequently shared by locals and experienced visitors.
For those who do manage to find parking closer to Windmill Beach, it's worth noting that some reviewers have mentioned renting snorkel gear from nearby establishments like Impact Divers. This makes it easy to take full advantage of the beach's clear waters for underwater exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit