Blog

One town, endless ocean experiences.

Simon’s Town isn’t just a postcard-perfect harbour town, it’s a seaside playground blessed with some of the Cape Peninsula’s most beautiful beaches and hidden coves. From peaceful swimming holes to penguin-filled bays, this stretch of coastline is where the ocean truly shows off.

Whether you’re looking for quiet romance, family fun, or a refreshing dip in turquoise water, here’s your insider’s guide to the beaches just moments from AquaTerra Boutique Guesthouse.

Just a scenic drive from Aqua Terra Boutique Guesthouse, the Cape Point Nature Reserve is one of the most breathtaking and soul-stirring destinations on earth, a wild stretch of untamed coastline where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet in a dramatic display of wind, wave, and wonder.

🐧 A Charming Dive into Boulders Beach & the Penguins — Why It's a Must-Read (and a Must-Visit)

Why Boulders is more than just a pretty beach: Sheltered swimmable coves and soft sand — Boulders isn’t just about penguins. The layout of ancient granite boulders cradles calm coves with soft white sand and relatively warm water from False Bay, making it perfect for a gentle swim or a relaxed beach day.

A rare mainland penguin colony — The beloved African Penguin calls Boulders home. Since the first pair arrived in the early 1980s, the colony grew significantly, at its peak numbering in the thousands, and offering one of the few opportunities in southern Africa to see penguins on land.

Up-close, safe wildlife viewing — Visitors can enjoy penguin-watching from sturdy boardwalks near Foxy Beach, an accessible, protected way to observe these adorable creatures without disturbing them or putting yourself at risk.

🐋 Whale Watching in Simon’s Town and False Bay — A Magical Ocean-Giant Experience
There’s something undeniably magical about stepping aboard a boat in Simon’s Town harbour, the salt air in your hair, and heading out into the wide, sheltered waters of False Bay, with the promise of spotting majestic whales, playful dolphins, and an ocean full of wonder.

🌊 Why False Bay is a Whale-Watcher’s Dream
A hotspot for whales and marine life — False Bay attracts multiple whale species, including the mighty Southern Right Whale, the graceful Humpback Whale, and resident year-round Bryde's Whales.

Protected waters and gentle seas — The unique shape of False Bay creates calmer, safer waters compared to the open ocean, making it ideal for comfortable whale-watching adventures.

Accessible from Simon’s Town, perfect for AquaTerra guests — Located near the Cape Peninsula, your stay at AquaTerra puts you within easy reach of both boat tours and scenic coastal lookouts, ideal for a spontaneous ocean escape.