Memphis: Whatcha doin’ there, boy?
Baby Mumble: [tap dancing] I’m happy, Pa!
Memphis: Whatcha doin’ with your feet?
Baby Mumble: [looks down] They’re happy, too!
If you’ve watched either of the Happy Feet films, you’re bound to be as smitten with the penguin race as I am. Like most animated animals, they’re not as cute and musical in real life. Most penguins can’t really dance to Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” with such finesse. But they sure are a wonder to behold.
Down in the seaside hamlet of Simon’s Town in Cape Town is a place called Boulders Beach – a breeding colony for the endangered African Penguin. Boulders is situated in False Bay, which is fringed by 30 kilometres of white sandy beach. Tourists flock here to see these aquatic flightless birds, who’ve called the area home since 1982.
Boulders Beach is a great family-friendly spot to visit on your Cape Town holiday, 40 kms from the city centre. You can observe the penguins up close, as they swarm into the bay from sea, hop atop the boulders or waddle onto the sand and to their nests. Watch them preening and suntanning on the rocks like holidaymakers, before whirlpooling back into the water for a pilchard and anchovy snack.
Be sure to spend a few hours exploring the historical navy town of Simon’s Town and nearby Cape Point, afterwards.
And don’t forget the camera… Here are some photos I took on a recent visit:
For Your Information
There is an entrance fee of R35 for adults and R10 for children under the age of 12, giving you access to the beach, walkways and viewpoints.
If you get peckish, the Boulders Beach Restaurant is only 70 metres from the beach, with a deck outside so you can watch the view while enjoying a nibble and drink. Tel 021 786 1758.
For accommodation in the False Bay area, visit our website and contact us to plan and book an itinerary that includes this world-famous must-see destination.
been there less than a week ago….
Thanks Antonella Cruciani Pollastro did you see the penguins?
Been there and saw them! I kept looking for donkeys on the the beach!
They are so cute and its a stunning setting
Was there last year. A lot of good pics.
not yet,………….would love to
(Y)
Yes! They really are so funny!!!
Yes, spent hours watching and wading in the water with them.
Love The Boulders sweet memories, been 15 years since I’ve been there;
Amazing !!!
Going there in a week. Flying in from London.
This is my favorite place in the whole world, wish i lived in Simon’s Town so i could go every day!
Just love the little guys!
Have seen them enjoyed my time in Cape Town immensley!!
They are great – love seeing them
Funny birds? our own little penguins.
Love them 😉
Used to live in Fish Hoek & Boulders Bay was our favourite place, but the Penguins were not around then.
Been there…seen them…fantastic!
Lindo!
it was so exciting to watch those penguins… 🙂
so sweet .
love bplders
Que maravilla.
yes we have been there too and seen dozens of the little ones all over
Glad to know that so many of you have been to Boulders!
Ohhhh brings back such grt memories
Renee is putting together our trip today, and we’re definitely seeing these guys. Maybe by kayak!
nice place,i whis to go there with my parens
Been there hubbys favorite fishing spot!
Rientro da una cena/incontro di lavoro proprio con il titolare della Rhino !!! È sempre emozionante sentir parlare di Africa , di etnie e di fantastici animali !!!
Hello, can you give more information on how you booked for this trip? i would love to go where you went, love the pics!