Half-Day Boulders Beach & Cape Scenic Drive — Penguins, Chapman's Peak & Hout Bay
Drive Chapman's Peak, wander Hout Bay's harbor and meet the African penguins at Boulders Beach on this five-hour coastal loop from Cape Town. Practical, family-friendly, and rich in natural and cultural notes, it’s an easy introduction to the Cape’s coastal wonders.
The Experience
Before You Go
Keep distance from penguins
Observe penguins from the boardwalks and marked viewing areas; approaching or feeding them causes stress and is often illegal.
Time your visit
Aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light for photography.
Wear stable footwear
Boardwalks and sandy patches can be slippery—choose shoes with good grip for short walks between viewpoints.
Bring local currency or card
While entrance fees are usually included, small purchases in Hout Bay or markets may require cash or card.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hout Bay’s harbor market for fresh seafood and local crafts
- •Maiden’s Cove viewpoint for a compact vantage of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles range
Wildlife
- •African penguin
- •Kelp gull and cormorant colonies
Conservation Note
Boulders Beach is managed with boardwalks and viewing guidelines to reduce disturbance; regional groups monitor penguin populations and advocate for sustainable fisheries to support their food supply.
Simon’s Town has been a strategic naval anchorage since the 18th century and the area reflects Cape Malay, colonial, and maritime histories visible in architecture and market culture.
What to Bring
Camera or binocularsEssential
To capture penguins and panoramic coastal views from designated viewing areas.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Support and grip for boardwalks, dune sand, and short harbour strolls.
Sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Direct sun on the coast is intense—protect skin and eyes during daytime stops.
Light wind/rain shell
Coastal weather can change quickly; a packable shell keeps you comfortable on breezy days.
Common Questions
Is the Boulders Beach entrance fee included?
Most guided half-day tours include the entrance fee to Boulders Beach; confirm on booking and keep a receipt if provided.
Are tours wheelchair or stroller accessible?
The site has boardwalks and flat viewing platforms; many operators list wheelchair and stroller accessibility but contact the provider to confirm vehicle and route accommodations.
Will I see penguins up close?
You can observe African penguins from close vantage points on established boardwalks, but touching or feeding them is prohibited to protect their health.
What is the best time of day to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures, better photographic light, and fewer visitors — midday can be crowded and hot in summer.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Simon's Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity; suitable for most fitness levels with short flat walks and occasional sandy patches
Ready to Explore Simon's Town?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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