Nestled along the False Bay coastline, Simon’s Town is a charming seaside escape just a short drive from Cape Town. Known for its rich maritime history, stunning views, and thriving wildlife, this quaint town is the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring some of South Africa’s most picturesque sights. Here’s a guide to making the most of a few hours in Simon’s Town.
Arriving in Simon’s Town
The scenic drive to Simon’s Town from Cape Town follows the coastline, offering gorgeous ocean views along the way. Alternatively, take the scenic train ride from Cape Town to Simon’s Town station, an affordable and picturesque option for getting to this coastal town. Arriving in the late morning or early afternoon gives you ample time to explore its charming streets and natural beauty.
Start with a Stroll Along the Waterfront
Begin your visit with a walk along Simon’s Town’s historic waterfront. The town is full of charming Victorian-style buildings, cozy cafes, and local shops. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of this naval town, where you’ll often see boats and yachts dotting the harbor, and feel the salty breeze from False Bay.
Things to do along the Waterfront:
- Visit Jubilee Square: A lively square surrounded by shops, restaurants, and small markets where you can find local crafts and souvenirs.
- Take a Photo with the Just Nuisance Statue: This statue honors a legendary Great Dane who became the only dog to officially enlist in the Royal Navy, winning over locals and sailors alike in the 1930s.
Explore the South African Naval Museum
Just a short walk from the square is the South African Naval Museum, located in an old Royal Navy storage building. This fascinating museum offers insights into South Africa’s maritime history, with exhibits on naval warfare, ships, and equipment used by the navy over the years. It’s a great place to learn more about Simon’s Town’s historical significance as a naval base.
Tip: Admission is free, making it an easy and affordable stop.
Meet the Penguins at Boulders Beach
A must-visit in Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach is home to a colony of adorable African penguins. A wooden boardwalk leads you down to the penguin-viewing area, where you can watch these fascinating birds in their natural habitat as they waddle along the beach or swim in the clear blue water.
For an even closer experience, head to the adjacent beach, where you can swim or relax on the sand with penguins occasionally wandering nearby. Just remember to respect their space, as they are wild animals.
Best Time to Visit: Early afternoon is ideal for penguin-watching as the sun brings out their activity.
Enjoy Lunch with a View
After a visit to Boulders Beach, take a break and enjoy lunch at one of Simon’s Town’s restaurants or cafes with ocean views. Popular options include:
- The Lighthouse Café: Known for its seafood dishes and welcoming atmosphere, this café offers delicious options, from fresh fish to hearty pasta.
- Saveur Restaurant: Located near the waterfront, Saveur serves a mix of Mediterranean and South African-inspired dishes with views over False Bay.
Enjoying fresh seafood or a local specialty with a view of the bay adds a memorable culinary touch to your day.
Discover Simon’s Town’s Heritage at the Simon’s Town Museum
Next, head to the Simon’s Town Museum to delve into the town’s fascinating past. Housed in an 18th-century building, the museum displays artifacts, photos, and documents that tell the stories of the town’s naval, colonial, and multicultural heritage.
Highlight: The museum also addresses the town’s history of apartheid-era forced removals, offering a broader understanding of the area’s social and cultural history.
Hike to Red Hill or Take in Views from the Simon’s Town Lookout
For breathtaking views of False Bay and the surrounding coastline, consider a quick hike to Red Hill. This scenic area just above Simon’s Town offers panoramic views of the bay and mountains. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can enjoy similar vistas from the Simon’s Town Lookout Point, a great spot for capturing photos of the harbor and ocean.
Catch Sunset from the Coastline
End your afternoon with a relaxing stroll or scenic drive along the coastline to watch the sunset. Simon’s Town’s shoreline and beaches provide excellent spots to watch the sun dip over False Bay, casting hues of pink, orange, and gold across the water. You can also drive a bit further along the coast towards Cape Point for even more dramatic views.
Tip: Stop by Seaforth Beach or Long Beach for a quieter sunset experience.
Final Thoughts
Simon’s Town is a delightful blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and history, offering plenty to explore in just an afternoon. Whether you’re strolling its historic streets, spotting penguins at Boulders Beach, or enjoying the ocean views, a visit here offers a taste of the Cape’s charm.
