Boulders Beach
Discover the magic of Boulders Beach—where sun, sea, and adorable African penguins converge. Amidst colossal boulders, witness nature’s cutest residents in their coastal haven.
Description
Immerse yourself in the charm of Boulders Beach, a one-of-a-kind coastal gem where soft, sun-kissed sands meet a lively colony of endangered African penguins. Tucked between towering granite boulders and lapped by the gentle waters of False Bay, this protected beach offers a magical mix of natural beauty, tranquillity, and wildlife wonder.
Stroll along scenic boardwalks, relax in sheltered coves, or share the shoreline with waddling penguins as they go about their day. It’s a rare and heartwarming experience that brings you up close with nature’s most charming little residents in their seaside sanctuary.
Company Group
San Parks
Activity Type
Nature & wildlife experiences
Additional Links
BrochureEmail Address
Enquiries: tablemountain@sanparks.orgPhone Number
Social Media
Google Rating
4.6 ★ | 26,400+ Google reviewsActivities List
Gift shop | Picnics on the Beach | Swimming | Sightseeing
Experiences
- Walk among African penguins on the specially built boardwalks that wind through their natural habitat.
- Swim in the sheltered coves surrounded by granite boulders and enjoy calm, family-friendly waters.
- Relax on the soft white sand while watching penguins waddle by and play in the surf.
- Photograph penguins and dramatic coastal scenery from safe viewing platforms.
Estimate Duration
1-2 Hours
Guidance Types
Self guided
Age Restriction
- All ages welcome (supervision required.)
- No lifeguards on duty for swimming.
What to Bring
Beach umbrella | Binoculars | Camera | Card (Cashless) | Comfortable sandals or flip-flops | Light jacket | Picnic or snacks | Reusable water bottle | Sunscreen & hat | Swimsuit & towel
Additional Information
- Boulders Beach operates as a cashless site; bring a debit or credit card.
- No public Wi-Fi available.
- Do not touch, feed, or approach penguins; they are wild animals.
Inside Guides
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and more active penguins.
- Use the elevated boardwalks for the best photo angles and to minimise disturbance to wildlife.
- Booking Tip: If visiting during peak season (Dec–Feb), book online in advance to avoid long queues and ensure availability.
Weather Conditions
Ideal Weather: Clear / Sunny
Rain Alert: Windy
Weather Experience: Strong winds or heavy swell can make swimming unsafe and reduce penguin activity visible from boardwalks.
Reservation Policies
- Day Pass for selected date.
- Booking confirmed via email after transaction.
- Ticket accepted as QR code or printed copy on arrival.
- Ticket valid for up to 6 days after date booked.
- Cash free only | debit/credit cards.
- Valid ID required for South African guests where applicable.
Estimate Price Range
R50 – R200+
Entry Fees & Pricing
International Visitors:
R215 per adult | R105 per child
South African Citizens & Residents:
R50 per adult (12+ years) | R25 per child (2–11 years)
SADC Nationals (with passport):
R100 per adult | R50 per child
- Price adjustments take place annually (1 November).
Booking Methods
Online (Sign up required) | At the Gate
Beach access
Benches & viewpoints
Boardwalk viewing
Café / kiosk
Cashless payments
Child friendly
Designated picnics
Dog area (Willis Walk only)
Gift shop
Guided tours
Outdoor showers
Paid parking
Penguin viewing
Restrooms
Scenic views
Security patrols
Sightseeing
Swimming area
Visitor info boards
Walk-ins welcome
Wheelchair access
No smoking
Must Tries
Penguin boardwalk walk — Stroll among African penguins along the elevated boardwalks for up-close wildlife encounters.
Sheltered cove swim — Enjoy calm, family-friendly waters framed by dramatic granite boulders.
Sunset photography — Capture the golden light on penguins and granite boulder coves for unforgettable photos.
Highlights
Endangered African penguins — Witness these charming birds waddling, nesting, and diving in their protected coastal home.
Granite boulder coves — Explore the unique rock formations and sheltered beaches that make Boulders a one-of-a-kind landscape.
Tranquil seaside setting — Relax on soft sands while listening to gentle waves and observing nature in a peaceful environment.
Features
- Beach access
- Benches & viewpoints
- Boardwalk viewing
- Café / kiosk
- Cashless payments
- Child friendly
- Designated picnics
- Dog area (Willis Walk only)
- Gift shop
- Guided tours
- Outdoor showers
- Paid parking
- Penguin viewing
- Restrooms
- Scenic views
- Security patrols
- Sightseeing
- Swimming area
- Visitor info boards
- Walk-ins welcome
- Wheelchair access
- No smoking
Must Tries
Penguin boardwalk walk — Stroll among African penguins along the elevated boardwalks for up-close wildlife encounters.
Sheltered cove swim — Enjoy calm, family-friendly waters framed by dramatic granite boulders.
Sunset photography — Capture the golden light on penguins and granite boulder coves for unforgettable photos.
Highlights
Endangered African penguins — Witness these charming birds waddling, nesting, and diving in their protected coastal home.
Granite boulder coves — Explore the unique rock formations and sheltered beaches that make Boulders a one-of-a-kind landscape.
Tranquil seaside setting — Relax on soft sands while listening to gentle waves and observing nature in a peaceful environment.
Address
Off Queens Road, Bellevue Road, Simon’s Town
Parking: Available on Bellevue Road (paid/managed parking close to the site)
Opening Hours
| Monday – Sunday | |
| December – January | 07h00 – 19h30 |
| February – March | 08h00 – 18h30 |
| April – September | 08h00 – 17h00 |
| October – November | 08h00 – 18h30 |
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