Simon’s Town is one of the Cape’s most distinct destinations, offering a blend of naval history, world-class wildlife encounters, and a relaxed village atmosphere. Located roughly 40 kilometres from Cape Town’s city centre, this coastal treasure sits on the shores of False Bay, serving as the official home of the South African Navy. Whether you are interested in maritime heritage, coastal hiking, or meeting the famous African penguin colony, it is an essential stop on any Cape Peninsula itinerary.
Reaching back to around 1650, Simon’s Town has been an essential naval base and harbour for more than two centuries. Its strategic position near the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans has made it a focal point for maritime trade between East and West. The village sits on a steep incline near the water’s edge, creating a dramatic landscape where historic cottages and colourful military relics overlook the bustling harbour.
Walking along St George’s Street, also known as the "Historical Mile," is like stepping back in time. This stretch features 21 buildings that are over 150 years old, including the Church of St Francis, the oldest Anglican Church in South Africa, and a Mosque built in 1926. For a deeper dive into this nautical past, the South African Naval Museum is a must-visit. Within its walls, you can discover a life-size ship’s bridge, a submarine operations room, and an ever-growing collection of naval uniforms, diving equipment, and sea mines.
Perhaps the most famous inhabitants of Simon’s Town are the thousands of African penguins at Boulders Beach. Part of the Table Mountain National Park, this area is world-renowned for its ancient granite boulders that protect the soft white sands from wind and large waves. It is one of the few places in the world where visitors can wander along boardwalks to see these birds in their natural habitat or even take a dip in the calm, turquoise waters alongside them.
The beach is part of a Marine Protected Area, ensuring it remains clean and safe for the 60,000 visitors who make the journey annually. The soft white sand and "warm-ish" waters of False Bay make it an ideal swimming spot for families, while the stunning rock pools offer endless fascination for children and nature enthusiasts alike. However, visitors should never touch or feed the penguins. Their beaks are sharp, and they will defend themselves if they feel threatened. A conservation fee applies, so remember to bring some cash.
Simon’s Town holds a special place in its heart for Just Nuisance, the world-famous Great Dane who served in the Royal Navy during World War II. He wasn't just a mascot; he was officially enlisted and awarded the title of Able Seaman, a move made to allow him to travel for free on the trains between the town and Cape Town with his fellow sailors.
Today, his legacy is woven into the very fabric of the village. A life-size bronze statue of this legendary hound stands proud in Jubilee Square, right in front of the hotel, encapsulating the nostalgia of the local sea folk. For those feeling energetic, a climb up the steps to his grave at the top of the hill is technically easy but a great workout for the legs. The reward is the Full False Bay Panorama, one of the most spectacular views in the Western Cape. The town even celebrates an annual commemorative birthday parade in his honour, and you can even find local wine named after him.
For the adventurous soul, Simon’s Town is the gateway to the Marine Big Five: whales, sharks, seals, penguins, and dolphins.
Beyond the harbour, Simon’s Town offers tranquil escapes for nature lovers. The Admiral’s Waterfall is a local hidden gem; a short 3-kilometre walk up a slight incline takes you to a secluded pool hidden at the top of a ravine.
The village is also just a stone's throw from the Cape Point Nature Reserve, home to 1,100 indigenous plant species (some of which occur nowhere else on earth) and one of the highest sea cliffs in the world at 249 metres above sea level. If you prefer exploring on two wheels, renting a bicycle or a moped is an inexpensive and exhilarating way to navigate the winding coastal roads and the surrounding fynbos-covered hills.
The Simon’s Town Waterfront Centre provides a sophisticated space for shopping and dining while maintaining a charming seaside atmosphere. The town is rapidly gaining a reputation as the culinary capital of the Cape Point Route, offering an assortment of coffee shops, restaurants, and speciality boutiques.
Food enthusiasts will find everything from outstanding fresh seafood restaurants with harbour views to classic “fish ‘n chips” served at the site of the old fish market. The main road is a delight for those who enjoy a slower pace; visitors can browse a range of unique products in the local shops or enjoy a quiet coffee amidst the restored cottages and cobbled streets. After a morning of hiking or diving, the village’s eateries provide the perfect setting for refreshments and relaxation.
Whether you’re drawn by the echoes of naval history, the call of the "Marine Big Five", or simply the chance to share a shoreline with a colony of penguins, Simon’s Town is a coastal treasure that truly rewards a slower pace. It offers a unique, soulful character that perfectly complements any Cape Town itinerary, providing a refreshing perspective on life at the water's edge.
For those looking to settle in and explore the Peninsula with ease, Nox Cape Town is on hand for all your Cape Town accommodation needs, ensuring you have the perfect home-from-home during your stay.
It is a 40km drive from the CBD, which typically takes 50–60 minutes. Alternatively, one can take the train south to the Simon’s Town Railway Station for a scenic journey along the water’s edge.
The penguins are present year-round, but they are most active during the early morning or late afternoon. Note that Boulders Beach is a protected area, so there is an entrance fee, which helps with conservation.
Boulders Beach requires a conservation fee as it is part of a National Park. Nearby Seaforth Beach is free and also offers great swimming and occasional penguin sightings.
Yes, during whale season (June–November), it is common to see whales breaching in False Bay directly from the coastal road or the harbour restaurants.
It is best to pack layers, as the sea breeze can be cool even on sunny days. Bring sun protection, swimming gear for the protected bays, and comfortable walking shoes for the historical tours and hiking trails.
Absolutely. Between the Navy Museum, the "Just Nuisance" statue, and the gentle, boulder-protected waters of the local beaches, it is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the Western Cape.