Casey Allen / UnsplashBest time to visit
Year-round; penguin numbers peak over the summer breeding season
Tucked between granite boulders near Simon's Town, this False Bay cove is one of the only places on Earth where you can swim near a mainland colony of African penguins. Raised boardwalks protect the birds while bringing visitors remarkably close.
The colony is protected within Table Mountain National Park. Calm, shallow water sheltered by the boulders makes it a favourite with families — though the penguins always have right of way.
Sources
Verified · 2 sources
- Tourism boardVisit the Boulders Beach penguinsSouth African Tourism
- GovernmentTable Mountain National ParkSANParks
Facts last reviewed Aug 24, 2026.
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