Visit Boulders Beach in Cape Town

Spot African penguins from up close

Information about Boulders Beach

Just around the corner from Simon’s Town lies Boulders Beach, a sheltered cove of soft white sand, massive granite boulders and icy cold water. Boulders Beach is the home to a colony of thousands of African penguins. Here you will see them go about their daily business: preening and sunning themselves, guarding a nest, waddling along the sand and sliding into the water.

Interesting facts about Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is named after the massive granite boulders that are scattered among the shoreline.

Penguins can also be spotted at the neighbouring Foxy Beach.

These penguins may look cute, but their beaks are razor sharp so don't try and pet them.

Pictures of Boulders Beach

Highlights close to Boulders Beach

Cape of Good Hope

The Cape of Good Hope is a rocky headland on the southern end of South Africa’s Cape Peninsula. Throughout history, the Cape of Good Hope has been historically significant to sailors and explorers. Bartolomeu Dias, the 15th century Portuguese explorer, was the first officially recorded person to have successfully navigated these turbulent waters and was instrumental in setting up trade routes between Europe and the Far East. From various lookouts points you will see sweeping views of the lighthouses, coastlines and pristine scenery.

Chapmans Peak

Chapman's Peak Drive is well known as the most scenic drive in Cape Town. Affectionately known as “Chappies” by the locals, it is a must for anyone who wants to experience the majestic Cape Town scenery. On one side there are sheer drops to the sea below and on the other side towering mountains rising above you. The twists and curves in the road seem endless, a true photographer's dream!

Hout Bay Harbour

The fishing town of Hout Bay on the Cape Peninsula is a great stop while exploring. The Hout Bay harbour offers market stalls with local arts and crafts and a wide range of restaurants. Enjoy fish and chips and stroll along the quay. It is very likely you will spot more than one Cape Fur seals here, as they have gotten habituated over the course of years and love to feast on scraps that the fisherman leave behind.

Animals in Boulders Beach

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.

Cape Fur Seal

African penguin

Cape Clawless Otter