Sanparks Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Boulders Beach, a highlight within Table Mountain National Park in Simon's Town, Cape Town, is renowned for its unique land-based African Penguin Colony, one of the few in Africa where penguins live among humans. This sheltered cove features calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for safe swimming and snorkeling, surrounded by granite boulders and milkwood trees that provide a natural habitat for the charismatic birds. Managed by SANParks, the site emphasizes conservation, with rangers patrolling daily to protect the colony (estimated 2,000 penguins). Wooden boardwalks allow close, non-intrusive viewing, while the adjacent beach offers family-friendly relaxation. Just 40 minutes from Cape Town's CBD, it's perfect for a half-day outing in October 2025's mild spring weather (16-20°C), when penguin activity peaks and coastal blooms add vibrancy—pair with a visit to the nearby Simon's Town Museum or a stay at Somerset Nest Lodge. Features:

• Penguin Colony Viewing: Elevated wooden boardwalks for safe, close encounters with African Penguins in their natural habitat; educational signage on conservation.
• Beach Activities: Safe swimming, snorkeling in clear waters; rock pools for kids; no alcohol, smoking, or pets allowed to preserve the environment.
• Amenities: Limited parking (arrive early in peak summer); restrooms, picnic areas; ranger patrols for security.
• Entry & Fees: Cashless gates (debit/credit cards only); adults R40, children/SA seniors R20 (ID required for local rate), under 6 free; vehicles R25.
• Operating Hours: Daily dawn-dusk (gates close ~18:00 summer); no overnight stays.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly boardwalks; family-oriented but stroller-limited on some paths; near Simon's Town (5-minute drive).
• Nearby Attractions: Cape of Good Hope (30 minutes), Silvermine Reserve (20 minutes); complements Waterfront markets or Bloubergstrand Beach.

Pricing Examples

• Adult Entry: R40
• Child/Senior Entry (Local Rate): R20
• Vehicle Entry: R25