In short
- Foxy Beach has elevated boardwalks and the highest penguin concentration.
- Boulders Beach is a sandy cove where you can swim in the ocean.
- A 650-meter pathway called Willis Walk connects the two locations.
In this article
Many visitors are surprised to learn that the Boulders Penguin Colony is split into two distinct sections. You do not have to choose just one. Both areas fall under the same national park boundary, and your daily conservation ticket grants you access to both.
What is Foxy Beach?
Foxy Beach is the main penguin viewing sanctuary featuring elevated timber boardwalks.
This area holds the highest concentration of the 2,000 to 3,000 endangered African penguins. You will walk on wheelchair-friendly paths that lead to the Grand Viewing Deck. This provides a 180-degree panoramic view of the main breeding site. You must stay on the paths at all times to protect the nesting burrows.
What is Boulders Beach?
Boulders Beach is a public swimming cove protected by 540-million-year-old granite boulders.
This sheltered cove has calm waters and pristine white sand. You can sunbathe and swim in the ocean here. Penguins often swim past visitors in the water or rest on the granite rock pools. To get the most space on the sand, plan your visit during low tide.
What are the main differences between Foxy Beach and Boulders Beach?
Foxy Beach is for viewing penguins from a boardwalk, while Boulders Beach is for swimming and beach time.
At Foxy Beach, you cannot touch the sand or get into the water. It is strictly an observation area. At Boulders Beach, you can set up a towel and swim, but there are far fewer penguins on the sand.
| Feature | Foxy Beach | Boulders Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Activity | Wildlife viewing | Swimming and relaxing |
| Access Type | Elevated timber boardwalks | Sandy beach and rock pools |
| Penguin Numbers | High (main breeding colony) | Low to moderate |
| Water Access | None | Yes |
How do you get from Foxy Beach to Boulders Beach?
You can walk between the two beaches using the Willis Walk.
Willis Walk is a 650-meter connecting pathway. It winds through indigenous fynbos and milkwood thickets. The walk takes about 15 to 25 minutes. Watch for penguins crossing the path, and always give them the right of way.
Do you need separate tickets for Foxy Beach and Boulders Beach?
No, one SANParks conservation fee covers entry to both Foxy Beach and Boulders Beach.
The 2026 international rate is R245 ZAR per adult and R120 per child. South African citizens pay much less. You must pay at the gates using a bank card, as the facility enforces a 100% cashless policy.
Which beach is better for photography?
Foxy Beach offers the best opportunities to photograph large groups of penguins.
Bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture close-up shots from the Foxy Beach observation deck. Boulders Beach provides interesting angles if you want a photo of a penguin swimming in the water, but sightings there are less guaranteed.
Are both beaches wheelchair accessible?
Foxy Beach is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, but Boulders Beach is not.
The main penguin viewing area at Foxy Beach features wide, even boardwalks. Accessing the sand and granite rock pools at the Boulders Beach swimming cove requires navigating uneven terrain and steps.
Questions travellers ask
Can I touch the penguins at either beach?
No. You must not touch, feed, or harass the penguins anywhere in the park. Their beaks are razor-sharp and they will bite if threatened.
What is the difference between Foxy Beach and Boulders Beach?
Foxy Beach is the protected boardwalk observation area where the main breeding colony lives. Boulders Beach is the adjacent sandy cove where visitors can swim.
How far is the walk between the two beaches?
The beaches are connected by the 650-meter Willis Walk, which takes about 15 to 25 minutes to complete on foot.
