If you’re looking for things to do in Simon’s Town, you’ll be spoiled for choice. There are plenty of historical attractions to explore, as well as natural scenery to take in. You can also go whale watching or explore the town’s many restaurants and shops. No matter what you’re interested in, there’s something for everyone in Simon’s Town.
Some of the top historical attractions include the Simon’s Town Museum, the Scratch Patch Mineral World and cave golf, and the South African Naval Museum. For those interested in nature, there’s the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, the Cape Point Nature Reserve, and Admirals Waterfall. And of course, no visit to Simon’s Town would be complete without going on a whale-watching expedition. Whether you’re looking for history, nature, or different ways to spend a perfect day in Simon’s Town, it definitely has something for you.
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Here are 12 Things to do in Simons Town
1. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
African Penguins live in a distinctive and threatened land-based colony at Boulders Penguin Colony in Simons Town. The colony, one of very few in the world, has gained notoriety and is a well-liked travel destination worldwide. Three immaculate beaches, one penguin viewing area, and three boardwalks can be found in the Boulders section of the TMNP.
Please stay on the boardwalks while you are in the viewing area. They were built as a safety measure to keep curious hands from poking these beautiful birds. Due to the large boulders protecting the cove from currents, wind, and big waves, this beach is great for kids but always use caution. They may appear cute and cuddly, but the penguins should not be handled or fed because their beaks are razor-sharp, and they won’t hesitate to nip the odd finger or nose if they feel threatened. Boulders Beach should definitely be high on your list of things to do in Simons Town.
Opening Times: Weekly from 8am to 5pm
Address: 4 Boulders Place, Secluse Ave, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 786 2329
2. Jubilee Square & Jetty
The best place to experience the local culture in Simon’s, a naval town, is Jubilee Square & Jetty. Since the 1880s, locals have gathered in Jubilee Square, situated in the centre of Simon’s Town. Jubilee Square & Jetty is the ideal stop for food and relaxation whether you’re travelling to the penguin colony close to Boulders Beach or looking for things to do in Simons Town.
In addition, Jubilee Square has been the site of numerous regional celebrations and events. Still, it is also known for its lively market, a collection of vintage cars, and the Great Dane Parade honouring Just Nuisance.
Opening Times: Open 24 hours
Address: St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 786 4737
3. Simon’s Town Museum
Situated just outside Cape Town, Simon’s Town is a historic naval town with a rich cultural heritage. The “Residency,” constructed in 1777 as the Cape’s winter residence for the Governor of the Dutch East India Company, is now home to the Simon’s Town Museum. The Simon’s Town Historical Society founded the Simon’s Town Museum in 1977. The Museum was first housed in the old Simon’s Town Municipality complex before being relocated to “The Residency” in 1982.
Over the years, the structure has served as a hospital, post office, school, customs house, police station, gaol, and magistrate’s court. The Simon’s Town Museum collects and displays the cultural history of Simon’s Town and its connections with the Dutch East India Company and the Royal Navy. Visitors can explore the Museum’s exhibitions and learn about the town’s fascinating history. Simon’s Town is also home to several military bases and museums, making it a popular tourist destination and things to do in Simons Town for history buffs.
Opening Times: Monday to Thursday, 10am to 3pm
Address: Court Rd, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 786 3046
4. Admirals Waterfall
There are plenty of things to do in Simons Town, and one of the best is to visit the Admiral’s Waterfall. The waterfall is hidden away at the top of a ravine, and to get there you have to walk up a slight incline that begins at the end of Barnard Street. As you round a sharp bend, the sight of the deep ravine will immediately grab your attention. Up top is where you’ll find the hidden pool and waterfall. It’s a great spot for a picnic, and you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views of Simon’s Town harbour while you’re there.
Address: 37 Barnard St, Mount Pleasant, Cape Town
5. South African Naval Museum
Simons Town, located on the Cape Peninsula in South Africa, is home to various things to see and do. One such place is the South African Naval Museum. The museum honours the history of the nation’s navies and is located in Simon’s Town, South Africa’s principal naval port. A life-size submarine control room, naval guns, torpedoes, and other items provide glimpses into contemporary naval operations.
If you enjoy hearing about heroic acts performed at sea or want to see what it’s like, inside a submarine, the South African Naval Museum should be your next stop. Just try not to ring any brass bells dotted throughout the museum! The South African Naval Museum is one of the most popular things to do in Simons Town and high on the list of attractions in Cape Town, but it’s not everyone can get there. There are some sections outside and up at higher levels where access may be difficult for older people or those with disabilities – like Middle North Battery!
Opening Times: Weekly, 9.30am – 3.30pm
Address: St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 787 4686
6. Scala Battery
It is home to several interesting things to see and do, including the Scala Battery. The Scala Battery is a former military fortification built in the 1780s. Today, it is open to the public as a museum. Visitors can explore the underground tunnels, see the cannons used to defend the town, and learn about the history of this important site. The Scala Battery is just one of the many reasons to visit Simons Town and one of our more historic things to do in Simons town.
Address: Scala Rd, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
7. Able Seaman Just Nuisance
Just Nuisance, a Great Dane, is the only canine that has been recognised as an official member of the Royal Navy. During World War II, he served with HMS Afrikander, a Royal Navy naval base in Simon’s Town, South Africa, between 1939 and 1944.
His owner, Benjamin Chaney, who ran the United Service Institute, a popular hangout for sailors from the Royal Navy, brought him to Simon’s Town as a puppy in 1939.
He soon became a familiar figure around town, taken for walks and treated to pies, biscuits, and even beer by the sailors, to whom he became a kind of mascot. So naturally, the dog grew fond of sailors – all sailors – and followed them everywhere, including the naval base, dockyards, and even onto the ships. He wasn’t a small dog – he was large even for a Great Dane – but when he started lounging around at the top of the gangplank, he blocked the way, earning him the nickname ‘Nuisance.’
Address: 113 St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
8. Scratch Patch Mineral World and cave golf
The Scratch Patch is a hands-on museum where visitors can learn about the rocks and minerals that make up the earth’s crust. Cave Golf is an 18-hole miniature golf course that is set inside a real cave. Both attractions are located inside Simons Town’s historic military fort. Visitors can also explore the fort’s tunnels and gun batteries, which date back to the 19th century. Both Scratch Patch and cave golf are great ways to learn about the local geology, and they make for an enjoyable day out. Add this to your list of things to do in Simons Town with your kids.
Address: Dido Valley Rd, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 786 2020
9. Simon’s Town Ghost Walk Tour
Local tour guide Andre Leibbrandt came up with the idea for a ghost walk through Simons Town six years ago to generate extra revenue. Leibbrandt poured over old books and maps, spending countless hours learning about the town’s spooky history in preparation for the tour.
The ghost walk takes place at night and covers approximately two kilometres. Some of the stops along the way include the Lavender Lady, shocking exhumations, creepy hotel shenanigans, and graveyard figures. Guests are encouraged to bring along a camera and an open mind. The Simons Town ghost walk has something for everyone, whether you’re a sceptic or a true believer in ghosts.
Address: Jubilee St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 076 190 4081
10. Simon’s Town Warrior Toy Museum and Shop
The Toy Museum in Simons Town is a fantastic place to take the kids or to enjoy a trip down memory lane if you’re an adult. With over 4000 different car models on display, each with its own story to tell, the museum is like taking a journey through time. The sales section is also excellent for those who want a bargain, with prices much lower than you would find in the shops.
In addition, the two railroads and other play items are fully operational, so you can relive your childhood while your children enjoy theirs. So whether you’re looking for things to do in Simons Town on a rainy day or a die-hard collector, the Toy Museum should definitely be on your list of places to visit.
Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 10am to 2pm and Saturday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm
Address: 1067 King George Way, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
11. Rocklands Centre Campground
Located between Simon’s Town and Cape Point National Park, on a mountainside with a breathtaking view of False Bay, is the Rocklands Centre. They have a long and storied history, with the first official camp taking place in 1988.
Address: 77 Rocklands Rd, Murdock Valley, Cape Town, 7975
Contact: 021 786 2501
12. Seaforth Restaurant
The Seaforth Restaurant at Simon’s Town is in a lovely spot, right on Seaforth Beach and close to the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony. The new building, which sits on the same spot as the former Seaforth Tea Room and Restaurant, which both burned down in 1996, provides breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby mountains.
Its prime waterfront location was taken full advantage of during the restaurant’s construction, guaranteeing that diners would have a picture-perfect meal. Guests can enjoy their dinner or a famous sundowner cocktail on the restaurant’s deck, perched just a few feet above the water at high tide.
Opening Times: Weekly, from 12pm to 4pm
Address: Beach, Seaforth Rd, Simon’s Town
Contact: 021 786 4810
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