See Penguins at Boulders Beach: Cape Point Tour Experience

Summary

Cape Town Penguin Colony Tour with Scenic Coastal Drive

If you want more time with penguins and love coastal drives, this tour's for you. You'll meet African penguins up close at Boulders Beach and see Cape Town's wild side—all without rushing.

What’s the experience like?

Clouds hung low over Clifton when we set off, the salty air already hinting at the ocean ahead. Our driver, Sipho, knew every shortcut and pointed out where locals grab coffee on Victoria Road—truthfully, I’d never noticed how Camps Bay’s sand almost squeaks underfoot until we stopped for a quick photo. The Atlantic seaboard always feels fresh in the morning, with that cool breeze that wakes you up better than any espresso.

We rolled into Hout Bay just as the harbor was getting busy—fishermen shouting over crates of snoek, gulls circling above. Some folks hopped on a boat to Seal Island (it’s optional), but I wandered over to a stall selling hot vetkoek. The seals are loud and a bit cheeky; one even barked at a kid holding chips. From there, Chapman’s Peak Drive was all winding cliffs and sudden bursts of wildflowers—our guide pulled over at a lookout where you could see forever, or so it felt.

The real highlight? Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town. You hear the penguins before you see them—a kind of braying sound mixed with the slap of waves on granite rocks. We watched them waddle between bushes and nap in the sun, close enough to spot their pink eyelids. There’s something oddly calming about sitting on those wooden walkways, just watching penguins go about their day.

Afterwards, we headed down to Cape Point inside the nature reserve. The wind picked up near the lighthouse—hold onto your hat!—and our guide told us stories about shipwrecks along this coast. On the way back through Scarborough and Noordhoek, we passed little roadside stands selling dried fruit and biltong. By late afternoon, everyone was quiet—tired but happy—with sand still stuck between our toes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cape Point Penguin Tour

• Scenic drive on Atlantic seaboard
• Visit Houtbay harbor and Seal Island (optional)
• Chapman’s Peak drive with scenic stops
• Visit Simon’s Town for penguins
• Explore Cape of Goodhope nature reserve
• Drive back through Scarsbough and Nordhoek

Top questions

How much time do we spend with the penguins?

You’ll get plenty of time at Boulders Beach to watch the penguins and take photos—usually around an hour or more depending on group pace.

Is Seal Island included?

The Seal Island boat trip is optional when we stop in Hout Bay—you can join if you like or explore the harbor instead.

Are there stops for food or drinks?

Yes! There are chances to grab snacks or coffee along the way—especially in Hout Bay and Simon’s Town.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

Definitely—it’s family-friendly and strollers or infant seats can be arranged if needed.

What’s included

Your ride is in an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort. We can provide infant seats if you need them. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels—just bring comfy shoes!