Boulders Beach

Overview

Boulders Beach is home to a thriving colony of over 2,000 endangered African penguins living among giant ancient granite boulders. Part of the Table Mountain National Park, it's one of the few places in the world where you can get within metres of penguins in their natural habitat.

Highlights

• Penguin Colony: Observe African penguins waddling, swimming, and nesting at close range from boardwalks.
• Sheltered Swimming: The boulders create calm, sheltered pools ideal for swimming alongside the penguins.
• Fynbos Setting: The coastal fynbos vegetation and smooth granite boulders create a surreal landscape.

History

The first breeding pair of African penguins was recorded here in 1983, likely displaced from islands offshore. The colony grew to over 3,000 by the early 2000s. The species is classified as Endangered, and SANParks manages the site for conservation.

Visitor Tips

• Two Entrances: Willis Walk offers a boardwalk viewing experience; Seaforth Beach allows swimming near the penguins.
• Breeding Season: September to February is nesting season — expect to see fluffy chicks.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.