Most penguins are native to the Southern Hemisphere, but you can also find them in Cape Town, South Africa. My Dutch friend’s daughter was surprised to discover that penguins live in Cape Town. Boulders Beach, which is just an hour’s drive from Cape Town’s CBD and not far from where I live, is a popular spot to see these fascinating birds.

I visited Boulders Beach in October 2020 to see the penguins. Known locally as Boulders, this beach wasn’t always home to African penguins. In 1983, a few penguins began nesting on the beachfront property, starting with just two breeding pairs. Today, the colony has grown to approximately 2,000 to 3,000 birds.

Unfortunately, the African penguin is endangered. Fortunately, Boulders Beach is now part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area, ensuring that the beaches remain pristine and protected. Organisations such as South African National Parks (SANParks) and the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) play a crucial role in supporting the penguin population at Boulders. Each year, over 60,000 visitors come to Boulders Beach to see the penguins. A small conservation fee is required for entry, which helps support ongoing penguin conservation efforts.

What to do at Boulders Beach?

Walk around

You can explore Boulders Beach on a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk that offers excellent views of the penguins. However, it’s important to be careful—penguins can bite if they feel afraid, and their bites hurt. Please don’t feed the penguins and keep a respectful distance from them. The fence along the boardwalk is there to protect both you and the penguins.

If you’re bringing a dog, you can walk them on the wooden boardwalk, but they must be leashed at all times. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the beach itself, as penguins are known to swim and waddle around there. Remember to stay alert, especially when penguins move their heads from side to side, as this behaviour can indicate a potential bite.

Soak up the scenery

Enjoy breathtaking views from the boardwalk at Boulders Beach, where you can see the stunning beach below and the unique boulders that give the beach its name. With a bit of luck, you might spot a whale, seal, or even a shark in the bay. The area is also frequented by boats and kayakers, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Swim with penguins

The ancient boulders surrounding the beach, are roughly around 540 million years old, and they provide natural wind and wave protection. Boulders Beach is family-friendly and a great spot for children, but always practice beach safety. Avoid touching or feeding the penguins, and give them space.

Picnic

You’re welcome to enjoy a picnic on the beach, but please remember to clean up after yourself and leave the area as pristine as you found it.

Learn more about penguins

Visit the Boulders Visitor Centre to get valuable insights from expert guides about Africa’s penguins.

Shop

Boulders has it’s own little shop that you can support. Outside in the parking lot is another little curio shop which I won’t support since the staff was unfriendly. But, I was going to purchase some things there before walking away. Maybe you will have a better experience.

Explore Simon’s Town

Simon’s Town offers a variety of activities, including restaurants, art galleries, shops, and stalls. You can also embark on a boat trip, go kayaking, scuba diving, or visit a museum. For more information on exploring the area, check out Simon’s Town. I’ll post more details once I’ve explored further.

When is the Best Time to Visit Boulders Beach?

The best time to see the most penguins is during the summer. Penguins are present year-round, but between September and October, they spend more time feeding at sea, so fewer may be on the beach. January is a good time to see juvenile birds moulting. For the best photographs, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the penguins are most active.

How to get there?

Boulders Beach is located in False Bay, about an hour’s drive from Cape Town’s CBD. Here are a few routes:

• Via Southern Suburbs: Drive around the mountain through Constantia, Kalk Bay, and along the coast to Simon’s Town.
• Via Hout Bay: Take the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive past Noordhoek and Kommetjie.

For more information on routes, visit SANParks or Rome2Rio.

Via public transport:

• Public Transport:
• Train: Catch a train from Cape Town Station to Simon’s Town, enjoying stunning coastal views. From there, it’s a 30-minute walk or a taxi ride to the beach.
• City Sightseeing Cape Point Explorer: This bus service stops at Boulders Beach on its way to Cape Point, offering a convenient and affordable option.
• Hotels and Tour Operators: Some offer transfers from the CBD.

How much does it cost to see the penguins at Boulders?

Entrance Fees:

• South African Citizens and Residents (with ID): R45 per adult, R25 per child.
• SADC Nationals (with passport): R95 per adult, R50 per child.
• Foreign Visitors: R190 per adult, R95 per child.

Prices are subject to increase so check the prices here.

Boulders Beach Conservation Fee:

• Wild Card Holders: Free entry for one year. The Wild Card is cost-effective for frequent visitors to South African National Parks. Learn more and purchase at SANParks Wild Card.

What to bring

• An umbrella, hat, and sunscreen for sunny days.
• Warm clothing and a durable umbrella for winter, as it can be cold, rainy, and windy.

Rules from SANParks:

• Do not feed or approach the penguins. Respect their space.
• Parking can be limited, especially in summer—arrive early.
• Alcohol and smoking are prohibited.
• No vessels are allowed, but guided kayak tours are available.
• It’s a no-take zone—do not remove rocks, shells, or plants. Just take photos.

Entry and exit times

• Winter (April – September): 08:00 – 17:00
• Summer (December – January): 07:00 – 19:30
• February – March & October – November: 08:00 – 18:30

For current operating times, check the SANParks website

How to help the penguins

Support penguin conservation by volunteering, adopting an egg, or donating to SANCCOB. Your entry fee also contributes to their conservation efforts. Learn more at SANCCOB.

Contact details

Bouders Penguin Colony
Simon’s Town | +27 (0)21 786 2329

Thanks so much for reading. If you have any questions , feel free to ask them in the comment section.