Simon’s Town

Things to do in Simon’s Town

Simon’s Town is a quaint seaside village with spectacular views over False Bay.  Magnificent beaches, historical buildings, museums, art galleries, a yacht basin and whale watching are just a few of the things which visitors to this lovely town can enjoy.

Founded in 1743 as a winter anchorage by the first Governor of the Cape, Simon’s Town was later taken over by the Royal Navy which in turn handed it over to the South African Navy in 1957.  The Navy still use Simon’s Town today as a training facility and many of the Navy ships are at anchor in the fortified harbour.

Simon’s Town has gone through some changes over the years with the renovating of some historical buildings and the harbour front area, all of which makes this little town an appealing destination for any visitors to the Cape.

Simon’s Town Attractions

Boulders Beach
Home to one of the only land based colonies of Jackass Penguins, you can walk among these fascinating animals or swim alongside them in the ocean.

Deep Sea Fishing
With some of the richest fishing areas in the world, Deep Sea Fishing from Simon’s Town harbour can result in Dorado,  Tuna and the occasional Marlin being caught. In-shore fishing can result in Yellow Tail, Cape Salmon, Snoek, kabeljaau (Cob) and much more.

Harbour
Simon’s Town Harbour with its rich naval history active yacht club is a hub of activity.  Sailing charters, Shark cage diving and fishing expeditions leave from the harbour on a daily basis.

Navy
The South African Navy calls Simon’s Town home.  Be sure to learn about Just Nuisance, a dog which made such an impact on the lives of sailors, he was enlisted into the Royal Navy.

Penguins
Jackass penguins are the only penguins found in African waters.  See these charming little creatures in their natural habitat on Boulders Beach near Simon’s Town.

Restaurants
Choose from a range of dining options from 5-star cuisine to coffee shops, catering to all culinary needs.

Sailing
The False Bay Yacht club can be found in the harbour, with sunset cruises and trips along the coast being a firm favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Scuba Diving
Shipwrecks, kelp forests, reefs and coral gardens await divers of any level – from advanced to beginners.  Diving with the playful Seals are also high on any diver’s wish list.

Shark Diving & Viewing
Experience Great White Sharks up close and personal.  Watch from the boat or view these greatly misunderstood creatures from a cage suspended in the water.

Whale Watching
With unobstructed views over False Bay, whale watching from Simon’s Town is an experience not to be missed.  Southern Right, Brydes and Humpback whales call these waters home. 

Bird Watching
Prolific bird life around Simon’s Town Guesthouse offers guests spectacular sightings of Pelagic and land based bird species.

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