Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach is part of the Table Mountain National Park. At Boulders Beach, you can visit and get to know the families of African penguins. These (jackass penguins) are considered to be endangered. They are protected, and Boulders Beach has been chosen as their own ‘waddling ground’ where you can walk along the boardwalks.Â
African Penguins were reclassified from vulnerable to endangered. The Boulders colony was established in 1982. A breeding pair is said to have arrived from nearby Dyer Island. Happily, the number of penguins is steadily increasing. With a decline in commercial fishing in False Bay, their chances of survival improved. At its peak, the colony reached about 3000.
. Penguins feed mostly on fish, they are about 60cm tall and weigh about 3 kilos. Penguins can dive to 130 metres deep and move at speeds up to 20 km per hour. They can hold their breath for over 2 minutes. Penguins have a lifespan of about 10 years.
The water at the boulders beach is considerably warmer than elsewhere on the coast because of the boulders, which shelter the space and catch the sun. The rocks are estimated to be around 540 million years old. Because of these boulders, the beach is safe for swimming and paddling.
There is a charge to enter the protected area. Pensioners’ rates apply.
Kleintuin Road
Check the sea temperature here
Check the tides here
Best beaches in the Western Cape article
FAQs about Boulders Beach
1. Where is Boulders Beach?
Boulders Beach is in Simon’s Town, about 40 km south of Cape Town. It’s part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area.
2. How do I get there?
From Cape Town, take the M4 (Main Road) or M3 via Ou Kaapse Weg to Simon’s Town, then follow the signs to Boulders Beach or Seaforth. It’s well signposted and close to the town centre.
3. Is there parking at Boulders Beach?
Yes. There’s paid parking at the main entrance on Kleintuin Road and at Seaforth Beach nearby. It can fill up quickly in summer — arrive early or park in town and walk.
4. Do I have to pay an entrance fee at Boulders Beach?
Yes. Boulders Beach is managed by SANParks. There are separate rates for South African residents and international visitors. Bring your ID for local rates.
5. What are the opening hours?
Generally open from 8:00 to 17:00 (winter) and 7:00 to 19:30 (summer), but times can change seasonally. Last entry is usually one hour before closing.
6. Can I swim at Boulders Beach?
Yes. The small coves between the granite rocks are sheltered, calm, and ideal for swimming and paddling. Water temperatures are usually between 12°C and 18°C.
7. Can I see penguins at Boulders Beach all year round?
Yes. The African penguin colony is resident year-round, though breeding season (February–August) is especially active with chicks visible in the nests.
8. Can I touch or feed the penguins?
No. Penguins are wild and protected by law. Keep at least one metre away and never feed or chase them.
9. Are there restaurants or shops nearby?
Yes. There are cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops within walking distance in Simon’s Town, as well as Seaforth Restaurant next to the beach.
10. Is Boulders Beach wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The boardwalks leading to the viewing areas are accessible, though access to the sand and swimming areas may be difficult for wheelchairs.
11. Can I bring my dog to Boulders Beach?
Dogs are not allowed inside the fenced Boulders Beach area, but nearby Seaforth Beach and Froggy Pond have dog-friendly sections.
12. What should I bring to Boulders Beach?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and swimwear. Snorkel gear is optional but fun for spotting small fish around the rocks.
Updated October 2025
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