Boulders Beach is one of the most popular attractions in Cape Town, tourists go there to see the African penguins that settled there in 1982.

Located south of Cape Town, it is a beach sheltered between granite rocks, from which the name originated.

On the main beach you will find only a few penguins, but if you walk among the rocks or swim through them you can reach areas with many of them.

Plus, you can get great views with tons of penguins from Foxy Beach, where wooden piers take visitors within a few feet of the birds.

This beach is one of the most famous in Cape Town and is definitely worth a visit. Perfect for a day trip to also explore the town where it is located: Simon’s Town.

The Penguins

These African penguins are the only ones on the continent. Its history is very interesting, from only two breeding pairs brought to False Bay in 1982, the penguin colony has grown to about 3,000 birds in recent years.

Unfortunately, the population has declined due to marine pollution and habitat destruction.

Figures for 2011 are around 2,100 birds. As a result, the penguins are under the protection of Cape Nature Conservation.

Boulders Beach

The beach is very beautiful; it is surrounded by granite rocks. Because of this, it is a bit out of the wind and offers a great place to relax. It is familiar and generally not overly crowded.

Of course, one of the main attractions is the penguins, they can be seen all year round, they are very cute and you can take amazing photos with them.

Activities:

The place is perfect for family picnics and sunbathing. There are great views to enjoy and it is also suitable for swimming even though the water is cold.

Foxy Beach

Less crowded than Boulders Beach, on this beach you can walk along the wooden piers that cross the length of this penguin colony.

Penguins are busy doing their thing and not paying attention to people. It’s a great place to watch them go in and out of the water.

Opening hours and entrance fees:

Hours and rates are the same as Boulders Beach. If you pay for a ticket to Boulders Beach, you can enter Foxy Beach for free.

Where is it located?

Boulders Beach and Foxy Beach are located on the Cape Peninsula, near Simon’s Town towards Cape Point. It is part of Table Mountain National Park.

Other things to do in the surroundings.

Buy African handicrafts

Around the Boulders Beach area there are several shops and people selling handicrafts on the street! Find good souvenirs, jewelry and other local products.

Eat at Boulders Beach Lodge and Restaurant

Boulders Beach Lodge and Restaurant is located directly across from Boulders Beach. It has a great diversity of food, but it is especially known for its excellent breakfasts.

Explore Simon’s Town

Boulders Beach is part of Simon’s Town. This cute town offers many nice places, such as bars, restaurants, water sports facilities, hotels and hostels.

Some examples of restaurants in the neighborhood, where you can enjoy various types of dishes are:

Salty Sea Dog which offers excellent fish and chips, The Lighthouse Cafe which offers a variety of great foods to enjoy and Cafe Pescado which offers wonderful fresh fish dishes.

Make sure to visit Boulders Beach. A day trip, which will definitely be worth it!