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Birdwatching

Boulders Beach

The African penguin colony in Simon’s Town, viewed from boardwalks inside Table Mountain National Park

Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town holds a resident colony of African penguins, viewed from boardwalks. It is a Table Mountain National Park pay point, where a daily conservation fee applies and the gate takes cards only. SANParks lists swimming among the activities for the section.

Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town holds a resident colony of African penguins, watched from boardwalks that keep visitors off the nesting ground. SANParks describes the Boulders section of Table Mountain National Park as three beaches, one penguin viewing area and three boardwalks, set among the granite boulders the place is named for.

It is a pay point. A daily conservation fee applies, and the gate is cash-free, taking debit and credit cards only. Swimming is one of the activities SANParks lists for the section.

The rules are worth knowing before you arrive. Stay on the boardwalks. Do not touch or feed the penguins. Alcohol and smoking are prohibited.

Parking is limited, and SANParks advises arriving early during the peak summer months. Low tide leaves more beach to use.

The Boulders Visitor Centre can be reached on +27 (0)21 786 2329.

Highlights

  • Resident African penguin colony, viewed from boardwalks
  • SANParks gives the section as three beaches, one viewing area and three boardwalks
  • A Table Mountain National Park pay point; daily conservation fee applies
  • Cash-free gate, debit and credit cards only
  • Swimming is listed among the activities for the section

Tips

The gate is cash-free and takes debit and credit cards only. Parking is limited, and SANParks advises arriving early during peak summer. Low tide leaves more beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see penguins at Boulders Beach?

Yes. Boulders holds a resident colony of African penguins, viewed from boardwalks. SANParks asks visitors to stay on the boardwalks at all times and not to touch or feed the penguins.

Is there an entry fee?

Yes. Boulders is a Table Mountain National Park pay point and a daily conservation fee applies. The gate is cash-free and takes debit and credit cards only.

Can you swim at Boulders?

SANParks lists swimming among the activities for the Boulders section. Conditions on any given day are a matter for your own judgement.

Is there parking?

Parking is limited. SANParks advises arriving early during the peak summer months.

What are the rules?

Stay on the boardwalks. Do not touch or feed the penguins. Alcohol and smoking are prohibited.

Request Boulders Beach

Tell us what you have in mind and we will come back to you with availability and options.