Simon’s Town is one of the oldest towns in South Africa, located a short distance outside of Cape Town. A relaxing beach town, you’ll find the atmosphere to be very slow. Almost to a standstill as this tourist location gives off the pleasant vibes of no worries and to take your time. Small marketplaces selling local arts and crafts, restaurants, and very picturesque ocean views and mountain hikes are only a small part of this south African homestead. What draws the rest of its appeal is the local wildlife, one animal in particular.
WHERE TO GO
One of the best things you can do while in Simon’s Town is to check out the African penguin colony located nearby in Boulders Beach. It’s great year-long destination regardless of the penguin’s breeding and feeding season. And one of the few places you can actually waddle with the penguins in the water if you pay the conservation fee at the information center located at the entrance. Just be sure not to get too close to them as they will take an aggressive stance.
You’ll be enjoying sometime in the sun while seeing one of the cutest animals in the world. Previously known as jackass penguins cause of the braying sound they make; this population has increased since the 1980’s. Plan on getting there at a good time as the African Penguins tend to be more active in the late morning to early afternoon.
The beaches are great. Natural rocks help discourage the large ocean waves and the area is so clean since it’s a protected area, part of the Table Mountain National Park. The sand is soft and white. The water tends to be on the warmish side which makes this relaxing spot even more of a calm paradise.
WHEN SHOULD YOU GO
The best time to visit is from February to May which is their breeding season. When I visited Simon’s Town during late November while making my way through South Africa there was still so many penguins to see. So I expect during the more preferred months the numbers would double or even triple. But there were also a large number of tourists. You’ll find April and May is better to avoid the crowds but don’t be surprised to find others who have the same idea you do.
The beaches are great. Natural rocks help discourage the large ocean waves and the area is so clean since it’s a protected area, part of the Table Mountain National Park. The sand is soft and white. The water tends to be on the warmish side which makes this relaxing spot even more of a calm paradise.
Multiple boardwalks will take you around part of the beach where the penguins tend to congregate and make it easier to view and take some high-quality photos. Even without the penguins this is a pretty nice stroll to take, and you’ll enjoy the nice ocean breeze coming in.
Check out the rest of simon’s town
There are other activities to do around Simon’s Town as well once you have finished with the penguins. Home to the South African Navy, you’ll find a few museums and exhibits showing off the naval prowess. Or check out one of the other beaches in the area, take a boat ride at the pier, or head up to some of the hiking trails in the back of the town.
While you are traveling through South Africa, I highly recommend stopping by here even for a few hours if you want to take a break from the road and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this coastal treasure.