FAQ
Boulders Beach FAQ
Get quick facts on rules, entry fees, and travel times for the Boulders Penguin Colony.
How much is the entrance fee to Boulders Beach?
The international conservation entry fee is about R245 per adult (SANParks updates it each November) and R120 per child. South African citizens pay R55 to R57 ZAR per adult with valid ID.
Can you swim with the penguins at Boulders Beach?
Yes, you can swim at the Boulders Beach cove. It is a public beach protected by granite boulders where wild penguins occasionally swim past visitors.
Do I need to book Boulders Beach tickets in advance?
Advanced booking is not required. You pay at the gate, but note that the facility is strictly cashless and only accepts bank cards.
How do I get from Cape Town to Boulders Beach without a car?
You can take the Southern Line commuter train to Simon's Town, which takes about 90 minutes. You can also book an e-hailing app like Uber or a guided tour.
Are the Boulders Beach boardwalks wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The main penguin viewing area at Foxy Beach features wheelchair and stroller-friendly boardwalks leading to a panoramic observation deck.
Is Boulders Beach a cashless facility?
Yes, SANParks enforces a strict 100% cashless policy at the gates. No paper currency is accepted; you must use a bank card.
How far is Boulders Beach from Cape of Good Hope?
Many tours bundle these locations together. Boulders Beach is in Simon's Town on the False Bay coast, serving as a popular stop before heading south to Cape Point.
Can you touch the penguins at Boulders Beach?
No. You must not touch, feed, or harass the penguins. Their beaks are razor-sharp and they will bite if threatened.
Why are they called African penguins?
They are endemic to the southern African coast. They are also historically known as 'jackass penguins' due to their distinctive donkey-like braying call.
Is Boulders Beach safe for kids to swim?
Yes, the Boulders Beach swimming cove is safe. It features calm, shallow pools protected from large waves by 540-million-year-old granite boulders.
How long should you spend at Boulders Beach?
Plan for 20 to 30 minutes if you only visit the Foxy Beach viewing decks. Allow 1 to 2 hours if you walk to the cove and swim.
What time does Boulders Beach open and close?
The site is open year-round. During the peak summer months of December and January, gate hours extend from 07:00 to 19:30.