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Perched on the False Bay coastline, Simon's Town is one of the Cape Peninsula's most fascinating destinations. Known for its rich naval history, charming Victorian architecture, thriving marine life and famous African penguin colony, this seaside town offers far more than a quick stop on the way to Cape Point.
Whether you're visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, there are plenty of things to do in Simon's Town. From meeting endangered penguins at Boulders Beach and exploring naval heritage sites to kayaking alongside seals and enjoying fresh seafood overlooking the harbour, Simon's Town combines natural beauty, history and adventure in one unforgettable destination.
Here's our guide to the best things to do in Simon's Town and why it deserves more than just a brief visit.
Located approximately 40km south of Cape Town, Simon's Town hugs the eastern shoreline of the Cape Peninsula. Established as a naval base in the 1700s, it remains home to the South African Navy and retains much of its historic character.
The town is named after Simon van der Stel, Governor of the Cape Colony, who recognised the value of the sheltered bay as a winter anchorage. Today, visitors are drawn by colourful heritage buildings, quaint streets, seaside restaurants, maritime history and some of South Africa's most remarkable wildlife experiences.
Simon's Town also serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Southern Peninsula. Cape Point, Kalk Bay, Noordhoek and the iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive are all within easy reach.
For many visitors, however, the highlight remains the African penguins that have made nearby Boulders Beach world-famous.
No guide to things to do in Simon's Town would be complete without Boulders Beach.
Home to one of the world's most accessible colonies of endangered African penguins, Boulders Beach offers a rare opportunity to observe these charismatic birds in their natural environment. The colony was established in 1982 when a small group of breeding pairs settled among the granite boulders between Simon's Town and Cape Point. Today, thousands of penguins live within the protected area, creating one of South Africa's most popular wildlife attractions.
Visitors can explore a series of wooden boardwalks that wind through the colony, providing excellent viewing opportunities without disturbing the birds. Penguins can often be seen nesting, preening, feeding their chicks and waddling between the bushes and shoreline.
For a deeper look into visiting the colony, including seasonal details and packing advice, explore our Boulders Beach Penguins Guide.
One of the reasons Boulders Beach is so special is that it offers far more than penguin viewing. The sheltered coves, white sand and calm waters make it one of the most beautiful beaches on the Cape Peninsula. Family-friendly swimming areas allow visitors to share the beach with penguins while enjoying the crystal-clear waters of False Bay.
Staying nearby transforms the entire experience. Guests at Tintswalo Boulders enjoy views over the colony and can frequently spot penguins directly from the property. Early morning and late afternoon are generally the most rewarding times to visit, when the beaches are quieter and wildlife activity is at its highest.
Few South African towns possess a maritime history as rich as Simon's Town. The town served as a strategic naval port for centuries, first under the Dutch East India Company, then the British Royal Navy, and later the South African Navy.
The best place to understand this heritage is the Simon's Town Museum. Located in the historic town centre, the museum chronicles the development of the town from its earliest days through to its role in naval history.
Exhibits include:
The South African Naval Museum is another worthwhile stop. Housed in the old Dockyard area, it features submarine exhibits, ship models, weapons displays and detailed accounts of naval operations over the years. Together, these museums reveal how Simon's Town evolved from a strategic harbour into the coastal destination it is today.
At the heart of town lies Jubilee Square, a lively gathering space surrounded by cafés, boutiques, galleries and local businesses. This central square serves as a perfect starting point for exploring Simon's Town on foot. Visitors can browse independent shops, pick up locally made gifts or simply relax while watching harbour life unfold nearby.
One of the most beloved attractions here is the statue of Just Nuisance. Just Nuisance was a Great Dane who became famous during the Second World War for accompanying sailors around town and hitching rides on naval trains. His popularity became so great that he was officially enlisted into the Royal Navy, making him the only dog in history to receive such recognition.
Today, photographs with the bronze statue are a rite of passage for visitors. Nearby you'll also find several historic buildings and walking routes showcasing the town's Victorian architecture and maritime roots.
False Bay is one of South Africa's richest marine environments, making Simon's Town a superb destination for water-based activities.
Boat trips depart regularly from the harbour, offering opportunities to experience the bay from the water. Depending on the season, visitors may encounter:
Whale-watching is particularly rewarding between June and November when migrating whales arrive in False Bay.
Kayaking adventures are another popular activity. Guided excursions explore the coastline around Boulders Beach and nearby coves, providing unique angles on marine wildlife while taking in views of the peninsula. The sheltered conditions found in parts of False Bay make kayaking suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Scuba divers are equally well catered for. Simon's Town is home to numerous dive sites featuring kelp forests, reefs, colourful marine life and historic shipwrecks.
Popular dive experiences include:
Non-divers can also enjoy snorkelling in sheltered coves around the peninsula during the warmer months.
While Boulders Beach often steals the spotlight, several excellent beaches surround Simon's Town.
Seaforth Beach sits adjacent to the penguin colony and offers calm, protected swimming conditions. Families particularly appreciate its gentle waters and convenient facilities. The beach is framed by enormous granite boulders that create sheltered pools and coastal scenery.
Further north, Water's Edge Beach provides a smaller, quieter alternative. The beach may be compact, but its clear water and secluded setting make it a local favourite.
Long Beach offers a more expansive stretch of sand and is popular for:
Thanks to the shelter of False Bay, swimming conditions in Simon's Town are often calmer and noticeably warmer than those found on Cape Town's Atlantic Seaboard.
One of the greatest advantages of staying in Simon's Town is its close proximity to Cape Point. Situated within Table Mountain National Park, Cape Point lies just a short drive south and remains one of South Africa's most iconic natural landmarks.
The scenic route from Simon's Town passes through protected fynbos landscapes, dramatic coastlines and abundant wildlife habitats.
Once inside the reserve, visitors can explore:
Baboon, ostrich, antelope and numerous bird species are regularly spotted throughout the reserve. Cape Point is especially rewarding for photographers, with rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean panoramas across both False Bay and the Atlantic.
Many visitors attempt to rush Cape Point and Boulders Beach into a single day trip, but basing yourself in Simon's Town allows for an unhurried, far more rewarding exploration.
Simon's Town offers an excellent selection of restaurants, cafés and waterfront eateries. Seafood naturally dominates many menus, thanks to the town's maritime roots. Harbourfront establishments serve fresh fish, calamari and local specialities alongside views of working fishing boats and visiting yachts.
For a relaxed breakfast or light lunch, the town centre offers numerous options:
Guests looking for a dedicated wellness experience during their stay can also enjoy treatments at the Tintswalo Boulders Spa, pairing relaxation with panoramic ocean views.
Reaching Simon's Town is straightforward from central Cape Town and Cape Town International Airport.
The most scenic drive follows the False Bay coastline via Muizenberg, St James, Kalk Bay and Fish Hoek. Visitors travelling by rail can use the historic Southern Line train, which terminates right in Simon's Town and remains one of the country's most scenic coastal train journeys.
Once in town, most attractions are easily accessible on foot. The compact town centre, harbour, museums and Jubilee Square sit within a short walking distance of one another.
A car remains useful for visiting nearby attractions across the peninsula:
Parking is available throughout town, though areas around Boulders Beach can fill up quickly during school holidays and peak summer periods—arriving early is recommended.
The best way to experience everything Simon's Town offers is to stay long enough to explore beyond the day-trip crowds.
Perfectly positioned directly above the penguin colony, Tintswalo Boulders offers an unmatched stay on the Cape Peninsula. Wake up to uninterrupted sunrises across False Bay, watch penguins from private viewing terraces, and enjoy direct access to Boulders Beach, Simon's Town harbour and Cape Point.
Whether you're visiting for wildlife encounters, coastal adventures or a relaxed seaside escape, Simon's Town offers a depth of experiences that rewards travellers who take the time to settle in.
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