Boulders Beach

Afrikaans name: Boulders-strand

Photo © Steven Herbert

Western Cape

Boulders Beach, sometimes called Boulders Bay, is a beautiful beach on the eastern shore of the Cape Peninsula. It is surrounded by residential properties but they do not detract from the beauty of this spot.

The beach gets its name from giant granite boulders which are millions of years old.

Despite the beauty of the beach and the boulders this spots real claim to fame is its breeding colony of African Penguins, also known as Jackass Penguins.

Accommodation in Simons Town

Over the last 30 years the colony of African Penguins has grown to about 3,000 birds. Boardwalks have been erected at the neighbouring Foxy Beach that allow you to wander amongst the penguins without causing too much to the birds.

Despite their association with water the penguins are easily seen amongst the coastal bush where they breed. One can approach to within a metre or so of some individuals who seem unperturbed by your presence.

Swimming is allowed at nearby beaches.

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References and further reading

Country Life - Issue 246 - Author: - Year Published: 2017 - Page: 44

Essential Birding: Western South Africa - Author: Callan Cohen and Claire Spottiswoode - Year Published: 2000 - Page: 24

Family Fun - Author: Lisa McNamara - Year Published: 2015 - Page: 29

Reader's Digest Illustrated Guide to Southern Africa - 4th edition - Author: - Year Published: 1986 - Page: 27

Wild Issue 25 - Author: - Year Published: 2013 - Page: 14