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Simon’s Town welcomes all visitors to our beautiful part of the world.  Here is some information which might be useful.

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Local weather.

Simon’s Town weather  is generally mild – it’s rarely ever too hot or too cold.

In summer while Cape Town central can bake in the heat we are cooled by our onshore breeze, which ranges between moderate to quite strong winds. This typical summer south-easter breeze is called “ The Cape Doctor ”

In winter the temperature rarely drops below 12-14C when it’s rainy and when it’s not rainy we can have over 20C with clear blue skies. Generally, the weather swaps between these two states every 3 or 4 days.

WindFinder  is a great site for the weather forecast.

Simon’s Town is statistically one of the safest towns in South Africa. You can feel at ease walking down the road or to local beaches and shops/restaurants, but as in any other town or city in the world, one must always be mindful of your surroundings and belongings. Here are some tips for keeping safe anywhere you go:

• Avoid carrying large sums of cash, don’t carry cameras in plain sight and do not leave belongings unattended.
• Heed the advice of your hosts or locals on where to go after dusk. Avoid walking in deserted and dark places at night. Park in a secure, well-lit area with street guards.
• Never allow strangers to assist you in any way at ATMs or cash points.
• Street children and beggars may approach you for a handout. If you wish to help, consider giving food or donating to a registered charity.
• Keep copies of all valuable documents in a safe place.
• When hiking, be prepared for weather that can change rapidly, even in summer. Bring along a map, comfortable walking shoes, enough water and sunblock, as well as something warm to wear. Start heading back well before dark and don’t venture away from the demarcated paths. Tell a friend or your host where you are going and when you expect to be back. It is not advisable to hike on your own.  If you’re not visiting as a group, consider joining a local tour guide or Hiking Group.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Emergencies from a mobile: 112 Emergencies from a landline: 107 South African Police Service: 10111 Medical & Fire Emergencies: 021 535 1100 Table Mountain NP Emergencies: 021 480 7700 Sea & Mountain Rescue: 021 948 9900 National Sea Rescue Institute: 082 911 Baboon Monitors: 071 588 6540 Shark Spotters: 078 174 4244 Ambulance: 10177

SAFETY WHERE YOU STAY

• Place your valuables/passport in a hotel safe.
• Never leave your personal property unattended.
• Close and lock the door when you are in your room.
• Don’t open the door without first checking who’s asking to come in.
• Use registered, qualified tour guides.

SAFETY IN YOUR CAR

• Have your keys ready as you approach your car.
• Always lock your doors. Parkin well-lit areas at night.
• Keep enough distance between your car and the one in front to enable you to change lanes and drive away in a hurry.
• Don’t give lifts to strangers.
• Look around before entering your driveway.
• Be aware of strangers begging at intersections and avoid giving them money – rather give responsibly by donating to a known charity.
• Never open your window when approached by a stranger.
• If you think you are being followed drive to a busy place or a police station.
• Keep your valuables out of sight – i.e. stash it, don’t flash it.
• After you’ve parked your car, make sure it is properly locked before you walk away, to ensure you don’t become a victim of thieves who use “remote jamming” devices.

SAFETY OUT AND ABOUT

• Don’t walk in deserted or dark areas.
• Stay in a group and on lit paths.
• Keep all possessions close to your body and in sight at all times.
• Don’t use your cellphone while walking and keep it, and your wallet safely tucked away.
• The use of headphones may distract you from what’s happening around you.
• Plan your route beforehand.
• Avoid the obvious visibility of valuables such as jewellery, cameras, laptops and tablets.
• Don’t carry large sums of money and avoid counting it in the open.
• Don’t keep all your money in one pocket.
• Use accredited taxis and cabs.
• Don’t leave handbags under tables, on the backs of chairs or on restroom hooks.
• Don’t leave cell phones or wallets on restaurant tables.
• Keep your credit card in sight all the time.
• Don’t leave drinks unattended.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

SAFETY AT ATMS

• Use ATMs in well-lit and safe places.
• Don’t allow your card to be removed from your sight.
• Don’t accept help from strangers or give out your pin number, not even to persons claiming to be bank officials.
• Watch out for the people standing very close to you and looking over your shoulder as you type in your pin.
• Never leave your card in the ATM. If it gets stuck or swallowed, follow the instructions provided on the ATM machine.
• Make sure you are not followed after a transaction.

GIVE RESPONSIBLY

Street children and beggars may approach you for a handout. If you wish to help, consider giving food, donating to a registered charity or contact Cape Town Tourism for advice. You may also encounter aggressive begging in the CBD. This is intimidating behaviour that can make you feel threatened.  You may also be followed around persistently despite your having said “no”. How to deal with it: Make eye contact and say “No, please leave me alone” firmly and clearly. If you feel threatened or uncomfortable in any way, walk into the first open venue and ask for assistance.

Shopping in Simon’s Town is a great experience and you can literally walk along the cobbled streets and alleys from one side of the town to the other.  Take a day to explore various antique, interior and lifestyle, locally produced curios, clothing stores and unique handcrafted jewellery stores.  The Simon’s Town Pharmacy sells a variety of items apart from health & beauty products, and there are a few small grocery shops selling essential food and other emergency items.

If you’re looking for a wider variety of grocery, clothing, household, and electronic shops, visit  Harbour Bay Mall , only 3km North of Simon’s Town Central.  Here you will also find a variety of restaurants, a beauty salon, hairstylist, a taylor, optometrist and the Harbour Bay Medical Centre.

Medical Facilities

The  Simon’s Town Pharmacy / Drug Store  with in-house nurse is well stocked and offers a full service 6 days a week. The dispensing professionals can offer advise no matter how far from home you are and provide all those things you need to enjoy your holiday by the sea.

If you need a medical doctor or other medical service, the  Harbour Bay Medical Centre  is located only 3kms from the centre of Simon’s Town. Here you will find General Practitioners, Dentists, Physiotherapists, Optometrists and Pathologists.

Cape Medical Response

CMR was specifically formed in April 2001 to service an urgent need for Advanced Life-Support paramedic services in the Far South area. Their services include advanced life-support emergency medical services.  They assess the situation and the condition of the patient in need of medical attention and immediately begin treatment and stabilize or resuscitate the patient.  They determine and arrange for the most appropriate emergency transport by ambulance or helicopter and continue with care until the patient is handed over.

24-HR EMERGENCIES: 082 782 4444 / 021 782 4444

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CAPE TOWN FOR CAPETONIANS

11 things to do in Simon’s Town in 2023

One of the oldest towns in South Africa, Simon’s Town is rich in history and boasts beautiful beaches, marine wildlife and many outdoor attractions such as whale watching. The quaint seaside town, home to South Africa’s largest naval base for more than three centuries, celebrates its maritime heritage with a festival every April. Its waterfront is dotted with great seafood restaurants and its main street is lined with antique and thrift shops.

There are many museums to visit, including the Simon’s Town Museum and the South African Naval Museum. For those interested in nature, there’s the Boulders Beach penguin colony, the Cape Point Nature Reserve, and Admiral’s Waterfall. Whether you’re looking for history or some time outdoors, there are so many different ways to spend a perfect day in Simon’s Town.

Here are 12 things to do in Simon’s Town

1. boulders beach penguin colony.

First on our list of things to do in Simons Town is Boulders Beach . Boulders Penguin Colony in Simon’s Town is home to a unique and endangered land-based colony of African Penguins. The colony, one of only a few in the world, has gained notoriety and is a popular tourist destination. The Boulders section of the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) has three beautiful beaches, one penguin viewing area, and three boardwalks.

The best spot to see the colony is the viewing area at Foxy Beach, where boardwalks take visitors to the birds. The wooden walkways are there as a safety measure to prevent contact with the endangered aquatic birds. Due to the large boulders protecting the cove from currents, wind and big waves, Boulders Beach is great for recreational use. Families can spend the whole day at this beach with the penguins, but it’s best to keep a safe distance and not try to touch or feed the birds. Their beaks are very sharp, and if they feel threatened, they won’t think twice about biting. As a local, summer in the Cape is not complete without a trip to Boulders Beach and a rendezvous with the penguins, and as a tourist, this experience should be top on your list of things to do in Simon’s Town.

Opening Times : Weekly from 8am to 5pm Location : 4 Boulders Place, Secluse Ave, Simon’s Town, Cape Town Contact : 021 786 2329

Also read: A walking tour to teach you the story behind Simon’s Town

2. Jubilee Square & Jetty

Simon’s Town is a naval town, and the prime site to explore the culture of the area is at Jubilee Square & Jetty. As the town’s focal point, Jubilee Square has been a popular gathering place for locals since the 1880s. Whether you are on your way to the penguin colony near Boulders Beach or just looking for things to do in Simon’s Town, Jubilee Square & Jetty is worth the stop. Take a stroll around the plaza to peruse the unique crafts on sale, indulge in some local seafood at one of the adjacent restaurants, or explore the antique shops that line the nearby main street.

In addition, Jubilee Square is the site of numerous regional celebrations and events, such as the well-known lively market, a collection of vintage cars, and the Great Dane Parade honouring the town’s mascot, Just Nuisance .

Opening Times : Open 24 hours Location : 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. It 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, jail 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. The area is also home to several military bases and museums, making it a popular tourist destination for history buffs looking for things to do in Simon’s Town.

Opening Times : Monday to Thursday, 10am to 3pm Location : Court Rd, Simon’s Town, Cape Town Contact : 021 786 3046

4. Admiral’s Waterfall

Among the variety of things to do in Simon’s Town, is a 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.

Location : 37 Barnard St, Mount Pleasant, Cape Town

5. South African Naval Museum

Located on the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, Simon’s Town is a popular tourist destination in South Africa. The South African Naval Museum is one example. The museum commemorates the navy’s past and provides context for Simon’s Town’s role as South Africa’s primary naval port. Views into modern naval operations are provided through a life-size replica of a submarine’s control room as well as naval artillery and torpedoes. Tales of daring deeds on the high seas are another way in which the guides keep the passengers entertained.

The South African Naval Museum remains one of the most popular things to do in Simon’s Town but unfortunately, it’s not accessible to all visitors. There are some sections outside and at higher levels where access may be difficult for the elderly or those with disabilities—like the Middle North Battery.

Opening Times : Weekly, 9.30am to 3.30pm Location : St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town Contact : 021 787 4686

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 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—so when he started lounging around at the top of the gangplank, he blocked the way, earning him the nickname “Nuisance”.

Location : 113 St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town

7. 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 Simon’s Town with your kids.

Location : Dido Valley Rd, Simon’s Town, Cape Town Contact : 021 786 2020

Also read: Scratch Patch Mineral World and cave golf

8. Simon’s Town Ghost Walk Tour

Local tour guide Andre Leibbrandt came up with the idea for a ghost walk through Simon’s 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 2 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 Simon’s Town ghost walk has something for everyone, whether you’re a sceptic or a true believer in ghosts.

Location : Jubilee St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town Contact : 0761904081

9. Simon’s Town Warrior Toy Museum and Shop

The Toy Museum in Simon’s 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 Simon’s Town on a rainy day or you’re just 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 | Saturday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm Location : 1067 King George Way, Simon’s Town, Cape Town

Also read: South Africa’s ‘Penguin Town’ scoops up three Daytime Emmy Awards!

10. 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 . It has a long and storied history, with the first official camp taking place in 1988.

Location : 77 Rocklands Rd, Murdock Valley, Cape Town, 7975 Contact : 021 786 2501

11. Seaforth Restaurant

The Seaforth Restaurant at Simon’s Town is located right on Seaforth Beach, near the Boulders Beach penguin colony. The new structure, which stands on the site of the original Seaforth Tea Room and Restaurant, both of which burned down in 1996, offers 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 Location : Beach, Seaforth Rd, Simon’s Town Contact : 0217864810

5 Ways to spend a perfect day in Simon’s Town

Picture: @simonstownquaysidel / Instagram

Article written by capeetc

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Simon's Town

• 1.2 By train
• 1.3 By plane
• 1.4 By boat
• 2 Get around
• 3.1 Penguins
• 3.2 Museums
• 9 Stay safe

Simon's Town (often incorrectly spelt as "Simonstown") is located at the east side ( False Bay side) of the Cape Peninsula near Cape Town , South Africa and is home to the South African Navy.

Follow the Main Road (M4) south from Cape Town via Fish Hoek to the Cape of Good Hope along the east side of the Cape Peninsula.

Warning: the information below might be out of date. As of January 2023, there's no direct train between Cape Town and Simon's Town. Coming from Cape Town, you have to change at Fish Hoek, and the train schedules are not aligned, so this change may take up to an hour. Ticket offices at Simon's Town train station are closed, so if you don't have a return ticket, you will have to pay at Fish Hoek after taking a train from Simon's Town.

There is a regular MetroRail [dead link] service from Cape Town via Fish Hoek , Kalk Bay , Muizenberg , Wynberg and Claremont. Be sure to buy a first-class (metro plus) ticket; these are not expensive. Although safety on trains has been an issue in the past, MetroRail has put a lot of effort into improving the situation and now the Cape Town-Simon's Town line is considered totally safe and reliable. The journey from Cape Town takes just over an hour. A good option is to buy MetroRail's special "hop on, hop off" tourist ticket. This allows you unlimited travel between Simon's Town and Cape Town for an entire day; you can get off and on at any station. The cost is a very reasonable R20/R25. However please be aware that there is a MetroPlus and a Metro option on the coaches and the corresponding tickets are first and second/third class. There are no obvious differences in the coaches but if you sit in the wrong one you can be fined.

The nearest airport is that of Cape Town, a good hour's drive away. You can also go on a trip with Civair from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town along the Cape Peninsula.

• -34.19258 18.4342 1 False Bay Yacht Club , King George's Way , ☏ +27 21 786 1703 , [email protected] . False Bay Yacht Club has a large 'Blue Flag' marina and regularly accommodates visiting yachts on local or round-the-world voyages. A variety of maintenance services can be provided. ( updated May 2016 )

Simon's Town is small enough to get around by foot (it takes less than 30 minutes to walk from one side to the other). From the train station to the centre of town is a 10- or 15-minute walk (turn left as you exit the station).

If you really don't feel like walking you can take a "Rikki" taxi. A "Rikki" is a small minibus which usually runs from the train station to Boulders Beach (and beyond if requested). Unlike other minibus taxies, Rikki's do not hoot their horn constantly so you must keep an eye out for them. Their vehicles are unique in that they are obviously a minibus but much smaller in size and painted white (often with an advertisement on the back) and often flash their lights.

A Rikki taxi meets every train that arrives at Simon's Town station. It costs R3.00 to go from the station to central Simon's Town and R5.50 to go to Boulders Beach.

Golden Arrow buses travel between Fish Hoek and Simon's Town, going as far as Boulders Beach, Murdoch Valley, Rocklands and Seaforth.

• Rikki's Taxis , ☏ +27 21 786-2136 , +27 72 387 4366 (mobile) , [email protected] .  
• Golden Arrow Buses , ☏ +27 80 065-6463 , [email protected] .  

You can also hire bicycles, including motorised and electric assist bicycles to get around and take a trip to cape point or nearby villages.

• -34.19288 18.42884 2 Cycle Cape Point , 60 Saint George's Street, Simon's Town , ☏ +27 730 56 6727 . This business is run by Sandy, a friendly British expat who will go out of his way to look after you. From R150 per day.  

• Simon's town is home to a large colony of the endangered African Penguin. The penguins can be seen at a variety beaches along the coast here, the most famous and highest concentration being at Boulders Beach. You need to pay for access to Boulders Beach, however a smaller number can often be seen for free on the adjacent Seaforth Beach.
• Along the main road through Simon's Town there are a number of museums on the False Bay side, including the Simon's Town Museum, South African Navy Museum and a Toy Museum.
• Bronze statue of Just Nuisance ( a Great Dane and the only dog ever to be enlisted officially in the Royal Navy ) in Jubilee Square. Just Nuisance's grave can be found at the top of the hill above the town.

Stop in Simon's Town and stroll around the harbour and the little shops along the main road. Then have something to eat, before you leave for Boulders, just outside the town (in the south).

• Swim at Seaforth Beach
• Sea Kayak Trips , Town Jetty , ☏ +27 82 501-8930 . Take a sea kayak trip to the Penguin colony.  

• SAS Assegaai submarine museum , ☏ +27 21 786-5243 , [email protected] . SAS Assegaai, formerly the SAS Johanna van der Merwe, was one of three Daphne-class submarines acquired from France during 1970 to 1972, which became the first submarines to serve in the South African Navy. She was renamed SAS Assegaai (Assegaai is the Afrikaans word for 'spear') in 1999 and was the last of the SA Navy’s Daphne class submarines in commission and decommissioned in 2003. She is preserved as a floating museum but is closed for safety reasons. R40 per person (R20 for children under 12 years old) . ( updated Jul 2017 )
• -34.19291 18.43274 1 Bertha's , Quayside Centre, Simon's Town Waterfront , ☏ +27 21 786-2138 . Right on the water's edge overlooking the harbour. As the largest restaurant in town, you should always be able to get a table here without a booking. The menu is similarly large with a good selection of steaks, fish, burgers, salads etc. Has free WiFi, however this can be temperamental.  
• -34.19348 18.43297 2 Cafe Pescado , 118 St George's Street , ☏ +27 21 786-2272 . As with everywhere in this area you can get a great choice of steaks and seafood here, however where they really stand out from the rest of the restaurants in town are the wood fired pizzas available to eat in or take away. Has a bar at the back and free WiFi.  
• -34.19325 18.43217 3 Harbour View , Quayside Centre, Simon's Town Waterfront , ☏ +27 21 786 1431 . Eat inside or out on the balcony overlooking the harbour. They also have a takeaway counter next door and sell a selection of items such as springbok or crocodile pate. Has good free WiFi.  
• -34.19302 18.43301 4 Just Sushi , Quayside Centre, Simon's Town Waterfront , ☏ +27 21 786 4340 . Maybe the best sushi in Cape Town.  
• -34.193 18.43357 5 Quarterdeck , Jubilee Square, off St George's Street , ☏ +27 21 786-3825 .  
• -34.19284 18.43219 6 Salty Sea Dog , Wharf Road , ☏ +27 21 786-1918 . Fish and chips fresh from the sea. The kingklip is particularly recommended.  
• -34.19337 18.43197 7 The Meeting Place , 98 St George's Street , ☏ +27 21 786 1986 . Excellent (but expensive) food, with great views north over False Bay. There is a restaurant and cocktail bar upstairs and a deli/coffee shop downstairs.  
• -34.19323 18.43054 8 The Sweetest Thing , 82 St George's Street , ☏ +27 21 786-4200 . Coffee shop with fantastic cakes and pastries.  
• -34.19428 18.44734 9 Seaforth Restaurant , Seaforth Beach Seaforth Road Simon's Town 7975 , ☏ +27 21 786 4810 . Overlooking the beach where penguins waddle around as you eat. Go on a Tuesday for their 'all you can eat' prawn special, or Thursdays 'all you can eat' calamari.  
• -34.19299 18.4325 10 Saveur , Quayside centre, Simon's Town Waterfront , ☏ +27 21 786 1919 . Tu-Su . Fantastic food with great midweek specials, very popular so booking ahead is recommended. Tuesday night is 1/2 price steaks, Wednesday is 2-for-1 burgers and Thursday is seafood night.  
• -34.1932 18.431 1 Two and Sixpence , 88 St Georges Street . M-Sa 11:00-02:00, Su 11:00-23:30 . A pub popular with locals and visiting navies, as such you can find plaques and signed perry buoys from various countries ships hanging from the wall, along with flags draped from the ceiling. Screens numerous football games, occasional live entertainment and free WiFi. ( updated May 2016 )
• [formerly dead link] Boulders Beach Lodge , 4 Boulders Place, Bellevue Road, Boulders , ☏ +27 21 786-1758 , fax : +27 21 786-1825 , [email protected] . Situated above Boulders Beach. Self-catering units also available. From R395 per person .  
• British Hotel Apartments , 90 St George's St (Main Road) , ☏ +27 21 786-2214 . Fully equipped self-catering apartments in the centre of Simon's Town.  
• Central Hotel , 96 St George's St (Main Road) , ☏ +27 21 786-3775 , [email protected] . In the centre of Simon's Town.  
• Lord Nelson Inn , 58 St George's Street (Main Road) , ☏ +27 21 786-3761 , [email protected] . Old-fashioned hospitality in a traditional British inn.  
• Simonstown Accommodation , 29 Penguin Drive, Glen Marine, Simons Town , ☏ +27 827845675 . Amazing mountain and sea views with secure parking and DSTV.  
• Miller's point . Camping.  
• Quayside Hotel , Simon's Town Waterfront, Jubilee Square , ☏ +27 21 786-3838 , fax : +27 21 786-2241 , [email protected] . Luxury hotel overlooking the harbour and False Bay. Part of the Relais Hotels group. From R395 per person .  
• Seagetaway , 10 Rocklands Rd, Murdock Valley , ☏ +27 82 855-3180 , [email protected] . Self catering cottage. Magnificent sea views. From R800 for the cottage per night sleeps 5 .  
• Simon's Town Backpackers , 66 St George's St (Main Road) ( 5-minute walk from the train station ), ☏ +27 21 786-1964 , [email protected] . Well run hostel with wooden floors, large community room and Balcony towards the bay. Parking in the street. double R360 .  
• TopSail House , 176 St George's Street (Main Road) , ☏ +27 21 786-5537 , fax : +27 21 786-5537 , [email protected] . Budget accommodation in an old convent, which has been converted into a delightful guest lodge.  
• Whaleview Manor , ☏ +27 21 786-3291 . Guest house overlooking False Bay with friendly and caring staff.  

Simon's Town is relatively safe compared to the rest of the Cape Town area, however this is still South Africa and so keep your wits about you and keep expensive possessions hidden. Tourists have often been caught out at ATMs here, whilst not often violent, a 'helpful' local changes the ATM language to Afrikaans and then forcefully offers assistance to get your money out - that being the largest denomination offered, which is then grabbed before they run off.

If walking on any of the trails out of Simon's Town, particularly over the top of the hill to the west and towards the Kleinplass Dam, there has been a history of violent crime and muggings as you get closer to the Red Hill Settlement (township).

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Simon's Town Visitor Information Centre

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CAPE TOWN TOURISM VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES are conveniently located throughout the city to provide you with friendly and informed advice, information and booking services for: Accommodation • Tours • Vehicle Hire • Shuttle Services • Eating Out • Wine Tours • Sport • Adventure • Shopping and much more.

Cape Town Tourism also offers business support to emerging entrepreneurs who either own a tourism business or are interested in starting one.

The print edition of the Cape Town Green Map is available at Visitor Information Centres around the city.

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Simon’s Town

One of the oldest towns in south africa.

Cape Town’s history is always going to be linked to European powers arriving at different times and assuming a role on the bottom of Africa. The English played a major role in the history of the country, but more so in Cape Town. If you head out to Simon’s Town on the false bay, this British style neighbourhood is a great example of Colonial South Africa. Home to the Naval base of South Africa, the most popular penguin colony at Boulders Beach and right by the Cape Point National Park, there is much to see and do in Simon’s Town.

A Short History of Simon’s Town

Under Dutch rule in the 17th and 18th Century, Cape town saw very little fighting action. But when the British wanted to try and take the Southern tip of Africa in 1795, the first battle happened not far from Simon’s Town, in Muizenberg. Not long after that, the Cape became a British colony and everything would change going forward. The British took over a small dock that was already erected in Simon’s Town, and over the years grew it to become the naval base of South Africa. Simon’s Town is named after one of the most famous Dutch governors of the Cape, a man called Simon Van Der Stel.

Simon’s Town weather – what to expect

Simon’s Town has a warm and temperate climate. Winter as always will have more rainfall and cloudy days, but the summer days can be long and warm. These long summer days are perfect for exploring some of the local trails in the area or for spending the day at the beach, taking a swim with some African penguins.

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – why swimming with penguins in Simon’s Town is a once in a lifetime experience!

Nearly every visitor to Cape Town has an activity right at the top of their to-do list, and that is going to see The Penguins. Simon’s Town is home to the most famous local penguin colony of African penguins. A truly astounding sight to see hundreds of penguins, on a warm sunny beach and not in the snow, Boulders beach is a must-do. There are plenty of great swimming beaches right by the penguin colony, so make sure to pack a costume for a nice refreshingly cold swim (water temperature is generally below 20 degrees centigrade).

Touring Simon’s Town’s Navy Base and Naval Museum

Simon’s Town is home to the Naval base of South Africa. This large harbour has served as the Naval base of South Africa since before the country’s actual inception. If visiting the area make sure to stop at the Naval museum of South Africa, there is much to learn and see for visitors and locals. Any dog lovers should visit the museum and learn the “tail” of the most famous dog in Cape Town’s history, “Just nuisance”.

Cape Point National Park – Fynbos is Just One Feature of What Cape Point is Famous For

Cape Point National Park is one of the busiest tourist attractions in Cape Town and offers visitors majestic views of the most South-Western point of Africa while giving them a chance to enjoy the local fauna and flora that Cape Town has to offer. Not just a birder’s paradise, wildlife abounds here. Some very famous baboons call this place home; try to avoid consuming snacks and drinks around them as they are known to snatch food from passers-by. You’ll also find ostriches and the largest antelope species found in Africa, the Eland. Keep an eye out for the odd tortoise crossing the road too.

More important to many would be the plants you find in the area. Fynbos is a unique plant and is only really found in Cape Town. These rugged plants have made this area famous for its biodiversity. It is said that there are more species of plants on the foothills of Table Mountain than the entire United Kingdom and viewing them in Cape Point provides vast views of a truly unique landscape.

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Spend a day exploring Cape Town’s oldest naval port and its surrounding village

The Ideal place to kick off your exploration of Simon's Town? A fascinating barista, fast Wi-Fi, home-brewing workshops and a unique new “kindness” coffee experience are available at Kukoma Coffee Co .

Simon’s Town; a name that every Capetonian knows. To some it’s a stunning place to spend an afternoon, to others it’s far enough away to warrant making a weekend out of it, but what remains constant is the enamourment that we have for this historic ocean-side village.

Simon’s Town, named after Simon van der Stel the first Governor of the Cape Colony, has been an important navy port (first for the British Empire, and now for the South African National Navy) since its foundation in 1680.

Simon’s Town is well-known for penguins and the Navy, but also for one very special pooch. Just Nuisance , and his story, is as fairytale-like as is possible in reality. He was (and still is) the only dog to ever be officially admitted to the Royal Navy. This lovable Great Dane served on the HMS Afrikander which was based in Simon’s Town between 1939 and 1944. He passed away at the age of seven-years-old, and was buried with full naval honours. Just Nuisance was said to have been born in Rondebosch, and taken along when his owner moved to Simon’s Town, where he captured the hearts of the sailors. He used to ride trains, sleep on the gangplank and accompany sailors safely back from the pubs when they closed. He holds a very special place in the history of Simon’s Town so grabbing a photograph with/of his statue in Jubilee Square is a must!

Seeped in history, Simon’s Town has always attracted tourists and locals alike to spend a day exploring the hidden shops, cafes, restaurants, museums and beaches. In the summer months, Simon’s Town is buzzing with life; people travel from all over to learn a little more about the history of the Navy, and to see the penguins of course!

This time around, the format of this tourism guide is going to be a little different; Simon’s Town is very much a daytime kind of destination so we have decided to really focus on sunshine-friendly activities and places to get breakfast and lunch. Never fear, we will also mention if the various eateries are open for dinner, we just won’t have a section for dinner places.

Sharks are not uncommon in the waters of False Bay, and the sea around Simon’s Town is no different. These magnificent creatures are the envy of the world over; in very few places can you experience their presence in the same way as you can in South Africa. There are various tour operators in Simon’s Town that specialise in shark spotting, shark breaching and shark diving. Have a look on Simonstown.com to see which company suits your needs best!

After you’ve scared the life out of yourself with some goliaths of the sea, I think it’s probably time for breakfast. Simon’s Town has a selection of delicious coffee shops and cafes that serve amazingly scrumptious food.

Monocle and Mermaid , one of Simon’s Town’s newer establishments, already has a reputation to rival the longstanding residents. They open nice and early at 7:30am, and they have an early morning breakfast special! They don’t have a single negative review on Facebook (which is pretty amazing), and in my own experience, their food is some of the most delicious I have had in a long time. Good job guys!

The Sweetest Thing is another amazing place to try. They whip up impressive patisserie items, and they taste as good as they look. I have such a tough job that simply for research purposes I needed to try one or two (or five) and they are stunning. Even if you elect simply to have a coffee and a croissant - they’re good too! If you are looking for a little something savoury, my personal recommendation would be the breakfast basket with softly poached eggs, bacon, sausages, oven roasted tomatoes and mushrooms served in white bread baskets. What a treat.

Lekker is more than just a word that means ‘nice’ (at least in this case anyway). There is another branch of Lekker in Kalk Bay and we love this one just as much! This cafe does design your own drinks and boasts a menu filled with SA classics fused with new techniques and ways of serving. Ever had a bobotie pie? Me neither, until I went to Lekker and now I could happily live on them forever.

After you’ve filled your tummies, head off to the main attraction of Simon’s Town; Boulders Beach . Home to 3,000 penguins, this beach is the perfect place to view these little cuties in their natural habitat. If you’re wondering which season to visit in, have a look below and see!

Boulders Beach was established as a penguin colony in 1982, and has since grown from just two birds, to nearly 3,000. Some allege that the boulders from which Boulders Beach gets its name, are over 500 million years old. You can grab an ice cream and walk along the newly constructed boardwalk, which will give you an aerial view of the penguin colony. The beaches adjacent to Boulders are restricted, but you can still see the little tinies from afar.

The trip to Boulders Beach will no doubt have made you hungry for something yummy. I was thinking a delicious ice-cream perhaps? Have a little look-see at Coffee & Gelato . Their Italian ice-cream is nothing short of perfect, and on a hot summer’s day in Simon’s Town, it is exactly what you want/need. I had the dark chocolate chip, and I know for a fact that the peanut butter ice-cream is amazing. Make sure you pack a hat when you go to Boulder’s Beach people, it gets very hot and no amount of ice-cream can cure a nasty sunburn.

It’s no surprise that historic Simon’s Town boasts plenty of museums, but the subject matter of one may do. The Warrior Toy Museum is truly a hidden treasure. This family-owned establishment has been located in Simon’s Town for an age now, and the humble-looking exterior says little about the magic that lives inside. Toys from years gone by stand resolute in military formation; dolls from the First World War in near-mint condition, a real working toy train with an incredibly detailed track and scene - this place really does have one of everything. They also have an amazing selection of model cars, some of which are for sale. Please note that if you ring the bell and nobody answers, just be patient, the owners will hear you eventually.

After the toy museum, you can take a walk back along the Main Road and head for the pier (and the Salty Sea Dog). In the area near the pier, you’ll have a choice of where to go for lunch. Bertha’s has been in Simon’s Town certainly as long as I have been going there, and I’ve lived in Cape Town for the last ten years. It’s located right on the waterside, with stunning views of the yachts and boats moored in the harbour with the mountains in the background. They specialise in hearty food, promising that there is something for everyone at Bertha’s. They have really yummy burgers, fresh salads and an extensive wine list. They also have an awesome cocktail menu, because who wouldn’t enjoy a cocktail by the sea? For those with kiddies, there is a special play area for them to enjoy; but please keep an eye on them, there is a little drop off the side which goes to the beach.

If you are more in the mood for a stylish quiche or maybe a sandwich made with freshly baked bread then perhaps The Pantry is the place for you. Located on Simon’s Town Main Road, The Pantry’s stunning and simple interior is incredibly inviting, plus the smell from their kitchen! They are the purveyors of delicious artisan baked goods and great coffee. Sit down for a bite to eat and just relax as the hustle and bustle of Simon’s Town passes you by; a quiet moment in an incredibly jam-packed day of activities.

As I said at the start, in my opinion Simon’s Town is a place much more suited to daytime visits, but as promised I also said I would mention the restaurant suited for dinner!

We can start with the Salty Sea Dog . It may not seem like it from the outside, but this place is by far one of the most popular food stops in Simon’s Town; visitors and locals alike go crazy for the fish and chips! Quite rightly so, the fish and chips is amazing. There is just something about the Salty Sea Dog that reminds me of winter evenings enjoying the tastiest meal I’d had in a while. The interior is nautical-themed, and perfectly suited to Simon’s Town.

The newly opened Mangata Restaurant is a breath of fresh air in Simon’s Town with their dainty, haute cuisine menu. Every plate they serve looks like a piece of art, and they taste as good as they look. They serve all daily meals and even have both set and tasting menus available. A very talented member of our team headed out to Simon’s Town for a little look, and you can have a look at what Mangata is really like!

Seaforth Restaurant , located on the shore next to Seaforth Beach is a stunning place to have a meal. Their menu is made up of various sea-creatures, all cooked to perfection and delectably served. They have a main dining room, an outdoor patio area, a gun room and even a penguin room. Whichever part of the restaurant you are seated in, your dinner will surely be fresh from the sea and cooked to perfection. Just outside the restaurant, there are big patches of grass for the little ones to play on (not too little, it’s not visible from all tables and they slope to the beach).

Article written by Charlotte Rogers.

Getting Married? Find everything you need at  Simon’s Town Wedding Expo .

Get your hands dirty and help the environment by planting trees in the deep south this Earth Day

Walk with ghosts in a haunted village and hear chilling historic tales during  Simon’s Town Ghost Walks .

Cycle on water and see Simon’s Town from a  Water Bike . If you are on the search for sunset spots to quench your thirst, why not check out our overview of  Sizzling Sundowner Hotspots in Cape Town.  Also, check out luxuary at its finest at  aha The Quayside Hotel .

--- Also, don’t forget to follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and check out our Pinterest boards for updates. Not to mention, subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date with what's hip and happening in our pretty city.

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A Guide to Simon’s Town, South Africa

• Last Updated March 17, 2024
• South Africa , Africa

From the rugged tip of Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, all the way up to Muizenberg, a string of charming and historic coastal communities line the False Bay side of Cape Town’s peninsula, but none are more historic or charming than the tiny settlement of Simon’s Town.

One of South Africa’s oldest towns, for more than 350 years Simon’s Town has been the headquarters of first the Dutch, then the British, and now the South African navy. However, this neighbourhood has more to offer than its rich maritime history; Quaint buildings line the historical mile from the train station to Jubilee Square, set against the dramatic mountainous backdrop where you will find gorgeous beaches, rich history, and the colony of African penguins that make Simon’s Town worth stopping by for a day or two.

About Simon's Town

One of South Africa’s oldest Towns and Naval bases, Simon’s Town was originally named Isselsteijn Bay by a Dutch East Indiaman of the same name who sheltered from a storm here in 1671. As reports of the bay’s discovery filtered back to the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel, he recommended that it be developed into a port, owing to the fact that it provided ideal shelter from the winter winds and storms that batter Table Bay on the opposite coast of the peninsula. It was later renamed Simon’s Bay in his honour.

A small dockyard facility was first established in Simon’s Town by the Dutch East India Company in 1743, which was eventually taken over by the British Royal Navy in the 1790s, under whom the facility was further developed over the following century and a half. The Naval Base was handed over to the South African Navy in 1957 under the Simonstown Agreement.

Unfortunately, in the 1960s, Simon’s Town was proclaimed a  White Group Area  and over the next few years black people, many of whom had family ties dating back to the early settlement of the area, were forced to move out. Their houses within the town fell into disrepair and a lot of them were eventually demolished despite the Historical Society’s efforts in preventing it. Luckily, some buildings were proclaimed National Monuments and survived. In recent years, the Town’s main street and Jetty have been restored and all along the ‘Historic Mile’ you will find beautiful Dutch colonial buildings steeped in history.

Getting to Simon's Town

The easiest way to reach Simon’s Town is by car, taking the M4 south from Cape Town to the Cape of Good Hope before travelling up the east side of the Cape Peninsula.

For public transport, there is a regular MetroRail service from Capetown via Fishhoek, Kalk Bay and Muizenberg. It is recommended that you buy a 1st class ticket and although safety has been an issue on MetroRail trains in the past, they are currently considered relatively safe. However, it is not recommended that you take the train at night. The station is located just 10-minute’s walk north of the town centre.

Where to Stay in Simon's Town

With the Penguins at Boulders Beach putting Simon’s Town on the tourist map and drawing in huge numbers of visitors from all over the world, the town isn’t short of hotels looking to cater to them. Truly budget options such as dorm rooms and camping spots are a little hard to come by, but both Airbnb rental apartments and the area’s 3 to 4-star hotels are of a high standard and competitively priced.

Simon's Town Boutique Backpackers

Just 5 minutes’ walk from the railway station, Simon’s Town Boutique Backpackers is the only hostel in town but despite the lack of competition, it manages to provide everything a backpacker needs; a bar, lounge, BBQ facilities and a shared kitchen.

aha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel

Perfectly positioned on the water’s edge of the Simon’s Town harbour, with breath-taking views over False Bay and the majestic Simon’s Kloof Mountains, this nautically styled, 4-star hotel is one of the best in the area.

Tintswalo at Boulders

A stone’s throw from the nearby penguin colony, this nine-room boutique B&B offers direct access to the beach and colony’s walkways. Inside is luxuriously appointed yet relaxed, offering a spectacular view across False Bay to the Hottentots Holland mountains.

Things to do in Simon's Town

The coast hugs the main – and only – drag of Simon’s Town where a walk from the train station at the northern end to Boulders Beach in the south offers spectacular sea views and the chance to spot calving whales between June and November. The town’s seafront location also means plenty of trips out to sea can be had from the harbour; whale watching, kayaking with penguins or shark cage diving are all on offer.

If you’re the type to get seasick, don’t fear, there’s plenty to keep a landlubber occupied. In the compact town centre, you’ll find fantastic restaurants, craft markets, and museums.

See African Penguins at Boulders Beach

One of the few remaining homes to the rare African penguin, Boulders Beach – named for its enormous boulders that divide the small, picturesque sandy coves – is home to a colony of almost 3,000 delightfully comical birds.

Much of the colony, which has grown from just two breeding pairs that decided to settle here in 1982 and has since ballooned to the numbers seen today, can be found on Foxy beach where a series of elevated walkways (the beach itself is off-limits) wind their way from the visitor centre, across the sand and through the dunes, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the penguins.

Boulders Beach has three different sections, including an area where you can walk on the beach and even swim with the penguins, located at the southern end of the boardwalks (an entry ticket is required to access this section of beach).

Although the penguins wander around town freely and are relatively indifferent to people, do not touch and feed them.

Pay Your Respects to 'Just Nuisance' in Jubilee Square

The African Penguins of Boulders Beach aren’t the only famous animals to hail from Simon’s Town. Taking pride of place in Jubilee Square is a statue dedicated to a local legend, a Great Dane that continues to capture the hearts and imagination of Simon’s Town almost 80 years after his death:  Able Seaman Just Nuisance .

Owned by Benjamin Chaney, who ran Simon’s Town United Services Institute (USI), Just Nuisance took a liking to the Royal Navy Sailors that frequented the bar and constantly fed him scraps, pies and beer. Eventually, he began to follow them to the naval base, taking naps on the deck of HMS Neptune at the top of the gangplank where sailors would have to step over him to board, which led to them declaring him a nuisance, thus giving him his name.

On Friday, 25th August 1939, Just Nuisance was enlisted into the Royal Navy. Like all new sailors, he underwent a medical examination which he duly passed and was declared fit for active duty. The proper enlistment forms were filled in and he signed them with a paw mark.

Despite never going to sea, Just Nuisance provided a boost in morale for those fighting in the War from the South Atlantic Station. He was renowned for the love and care he showed for his sailor mates, including guiding drunken sailors from the railway station to the base and appearing at parades wearing his seaman’s hat. However, he did get in a fair bit of trouble: his “Conduct Sheet” that can now be found in the Simon’s Town museum shows that he was guilty of several misdeeds, such as travelling on the train without his free pass, sleeping on a bed in the Petty Officer’s dormitory, going AWOL, losing his collar and resisting eviction from pubs at closing time.

Following his death, Just Nuisance was laid to rest with full military honours at Klaver Camp on top of Red Hill (the current site of the South African Navy Signal School) in a solemn ceremony that included a firing party of Royal Marines and a lone bugler.

The area of jubilee square around his statue is a local meeting point and every weekend, hosts a local craft market known as the Just Nuisance Community Market between 9am and 3pm.

Go Whale Watching

Due to its calm and sheltered nature, False Bay is the year-round home to Bryde’s whales but also features migratory Southern Right & Humpback whales from June to November.

Simon’s Town Boat Company  was started 20 years ago by avid naturalist and expert on cetacean behaviour in the bay, Dave Hurwitz, and is the only licensed whale watching company in Simon’s Town that is permitted to approach and interact with whales, providing they choose to.

The 2.5 hour long tours operate twice daily (at 10.30am and 2pm) during the migratory months when large mating pods and mothers teaching their babies to swim in the protected shallows can be seen lob tailing, sailing and breaching. Tours cost R1100 per adult and R730 per child.

Simon’s Town Boat Company also offer tours to Seal Island, home to a thriving population of around 75,000 Cape fur seals and a large variety of endangered sea birds, including a small population of penguins.

Take an Audio Tour

There’s no better way to explore a new destination than with the help of a knowledgable local and in this audio tour, storyteller and writer Maureen Miller takes you on a guided stroll along Simon’s Town’s Historic Mile where she will regale you with stories about navies past and present, Admiralty House, thundering cannons, and Jubilee Square. The walk starts at the Simon’s Town train station and ends in the village centre.

Download the VoiceMap app and the Simon’s Town Tour

Browse the Museums

If you would like to delve deep into the storied history of Simon’s Town, there are multiple museums in the town.  Simon’s Town Museum  is housed in ‘The Residency’, a building constructed in 1777 as the winter residence for the Dutch East India Company Governor at the Cape that has since been used as a hospital, post office, school, customs house, police station, gaol and magistrate’s court. The Simon’s Town Museum collects and exhibits the cultural history of the people of Simon’s Town and their connections with the Dutch East India Company and the Royal Navy.

Elsewhere, the  South African Naval Museum  pays homage to the country’s naval history, from its early origins in 1922 when the South African Naval Service was established, to its involvement and expansion during the Second World War (1939-1945). It includes glimpses into modern naval operations with models of submarines, a life-size submarine control room, naval guns, torpedoes and more as well as displays that show the historical ties with the British Royal Navy, the age of sail and South African involvement during the First World War (1914-1918).

Kayak With Penguins

Although wandering with the penguins of Boulder Beach is a must-have experience in Cape Town, more intrepid travellers can get even more up close and personal with Simon’s Town’s famous birds.  Kayak Cape Town  offers a daily kayak tour that leaves Simon’s Town jetty, paddling out past the civilian and Naval Harbours (where you get a bonus close up view of the naval vessels) and then out to Boulders Beach where you can float amongst the penguins as they swim and dive in False Bay.

The tour lasts 2 hours and gives you the opportunity to encounter Cape Fur seals, whales (during the migration season) and hop off your kayak to swim with the penguins once you reach Boulders Beach. Tours cost R290 per person.

Take a Ghost Walk Through a Haunted Village

Do you want to hear about the Lavender Lady that wanders the rooms of a Simon’s Town museum? How about tales of butchering barbers and horrific mass murderers? With such a long and storied history, Simon’s town has plenty of creepy secrets to tell and André Leibbrandt, a qualified Western Cape Tourist Guide has scoured its history for the most gruesome tales which he regales as part of his two-hour long ghost walks of the town’s historic mile.

The Ghost Walk costs R100 per person and takes place every Friday and Saturday evening. In winter, the walk starts at 6.30pm and in summer by 7pm.

Where to Eat & Drink in Simon's Town

For a town of its size, Simon’s Town is disproportionately blessed with an abundance of fantastic cafes and restaurants, the majority of which are found along the main road or clustered around the pretty harbourside and Jubilee Square.

The Salty Sea Dog

This compact little eatery on the water’s edge of Simon’s Town jetty and harbour is a local institution. Originally built as a fish market in 1925, ‘Salties’ is known to serve the best fish and chips in town, both for takeaway and eating in.

Where : 2 Wharf St When : Mon to Sat 10am – 9pm; Sun 10am – 4.30pm

Bertha’s Restaurant

Situated centrally on the quayside, Bertha’s Restaurant is one of the town’s largest and most popular eateries, occupying a large portion of the seafront. As well as offering spectacular views of False Bay, Bertha’s simple menu mixes delicious seafood with classic African cuisine. The seafood is the star of the show with fish and chips, west coast mussels and calamari being among the most ordered dishes but be sure to save room for their delicious home-made  malva  dessert.

Where : Just off Jubilee Square When : Daily 6am – 10pm

JB’s Ice Cream Parlour

Located opposite Jubilee square on the main road, JB’s has the retro look and feel of an old school ice cream parlour but serves up a huge number of inventive flavours that are easily the best scoops you will find in town. The salted peanut brittle and Peaches & cream flavours are both spectacular.

Where : 104 St George’s St When: Daily 9.30am – 5.30pm

Saveur Restaurant

Occupying one of the town’s best harbourside sunset spots, Saveur serves up mouthwatering European and international dishes. Make sure to try the delectable Moroccan spiced lamb skewers with roast veg on a bed of spiced cous cous.

Where : Waterfront Centre, Wharf St When : Tues to Sat 9am – 9pm; Sun & Mon 9am – 5pm

The Sweetest Thing

If you have had your fill of seafood, succumb to temptation and pop into The Sweetest Thing to try their delectable range of cakes and pastries such as lemon meringues, eclairs and more. The patisserie also serves good coffee, breakfast, pies and quiche, all made locally or on the premises. If in doubt about how good the sweet treats are, owner Doreen Alcock has previously won the South African Diners Club National Dine Award for the Most Promising Pastry Chef.

Where : 82 St George’s St When : Opening times vary

Monocle & Mermaid

Despite being primarily a coffee spot, the rustic, seafaring themed Monocle and Mermaid also serves some of the best food in town from its small but perfectly formed menu, ranging from sandwiches and wraps (including vegan options) as well as some heartier dishes such as their excellent  Venedict , a take on eggs benedict featuring succulent, lean Eland Steak.

Where : 126 St. Georges Street When : Mon to Thurs 8am – 10pm; Fri to Sun 8am – 10pm

A wonderful café and workspace that, as well as serving great coffees, has a vegan-friendly, organic, locally sourced menu. The Café also hosts a rigging shop and has a pay-it-forward ethos where they provide free coffee to locals in need and take on inexperienced staff with the aim to train them to become top-quality baristas.

Where : 136 St George’s St When : Opening times are subject to change

The Lighthouse Cafe

The shabby chic interior of the Lighthouse Café perfectly complements its seaside setting, as does the seafood-heavy menu cooked fresh and from scratch by café owner Brett Rathbone.

Where : 90 St George’s St When : Sun to Tues 8.30am – 4pm; Weds to Sat 8.30am – 10pm

When is the Best Time to visit Simon's Town?

South Africa is a year-round destination, with varying regional climates. The Western Cape is busiest during the summer months of December to February, however the shoulder months of from March to May and from September to November have fewer crowds, lower prices while still offering crisp, clear days. If you plan to do some whale watching in False Bay, July to September is when migratory whales arrive along the coastline.

I visited Simon’s Town as part of a media visit to South Africa with Edits by Exodus. However, all views expressed are my own.

Dave McClane

David McClane is a photographer and travel writer based in Leeds, UK. Since first picking up a camera on a yearlong journey through Central and South America in 2014/2015, He has carefully documented his travels through almost 50 countries.

Visiting the Penguins of Boulders Beach, Cape Town

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PINOY ABROAD

City tourism office ng san juan, humingi ng paumanhin sa mga naperwisyo sa ‘wattah wattah’ festival.

Humingi ng paumanhin ang Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office sa harap ng mga kritisismo ng netizens sa nangyaring kaguluhan at pambabasa sa mga taong dumaan sa San Juan sa selebrasyon ng taunang "Wattah Wattah Festival” noong June 24.

“Taos-puso kaming humihingi ng paumanhin sa mga naapektuhan ng kaguluhan ng ilang mga dumalo sa pagdiriwang. Tinitiyak namin na gagawin namin ang lahat ng kinakailangang hakbang upang masigurong pananagutin ang lahat ng mga lumabag nang naaayon at upang hindi na ito maulit pa sa mga susunod na pagdiriwang,” saad sa inilabas na pahayag ng San Juan City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office na naka-post sa Facebook page ng San Juan City.

Inilabas ang naturang pahayag sa harap ng mga video post online at mga negatibong reaksyon mula sa netizens na makikita na may mga tao na nagbubukas ng sasakyan para buhusan ng tubig ang mga taong nakasakay.

May mga nanghaharang din at may mga sumasampa rin sa sasakyan. May video na makikitang may isang nambabasa na tila tinutuya pa ang tao na kaniyang binabasa na walang magawa.

“Umabot sa Pamahalaang Lungsod ng San Juan ang mga ulat ng kaguluhan at seryosong tinutugunan namin ang lahat ng reklamo hinggil sa nangyaring Basaan noon Hunyo 24. Kami ay aktibong nangangalap ng ebidensya ng kauguluhan sa nasabing kaganapan,” ayon pa sa pahayag.

Hinikayat nila ang publiko na ipadala sa kanila ang mga katibayan, gaya ng video at larawan para matukoy ang mga lumabag at masampahan ng kaukulang reklamo.

“Ang mga isinumiteng video ay sinusuri upang matukoy ang mga lumabag sa City Ordinance No. 51, series of 2018, at ibang umiiral na batas,” it added.

Ipinaliwanag ng Tourism Office ng San Juan na ang basaan ay tradisyon sa lungsod bilang paggunita sa kanilang patron na si Saint John the Baptist.-- FRJ, GMA Integrated News

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Tourism officer: Israel safe for Pinoy travelers amid challenging times

At a glance.

A group of Filipino travel agents recently went to Israel as part of an enriching familiarization tour organized by Royal Vacations. This tour seeks to deepen their understanding of Israel’s rich cultural tapestry, historical significance, and vibrant tourism offerings.

The Philippine office of Israel's Ministry of Tourism has assured Filipinos that high-security standards are in place for Filipino travelers who want to experience the wonders of the Holy Land amid challenges that the country is facing today.

Marketing Manager of Israel Ministry of Tourism-Philippine office Anna Aban said this as Filipino travel agents explored Israel this month.

In a statement, Aban said Filipinos are welcome to visit Israel and experience its wonders and culture that continues to be normal despite external threats, particularly the ongoing war in Gaza.

"We invite our Filipino friends to discover Israel—a land where ancient history meets vibrant culture," she said.

"Despite the challenges depicted in the news, daily life in Israel continues with normalcy. We want visitors to witness our resilience and hospitality firsthand," she added.

Aban assured her fellow Filipinos that Israel prioritizes the tourists' safety and security.

"We assure our Filipino guests that their safety and comfort are our utmost priorities," she said.

"Our tourism infrastructure is well-equipped to provide memorable experiences while maintaining high standards of security," she added.

A group of Filipino travel agents recently went to Israel as part of an enriching familiarization tour organized by Royal Vacations. This tour seeks to deepen their understanding of Israel’s rich cultural tapestry, historical significance, and vibrant tourism offerings .

During their visit, the Filipino travel agents immersed themselves in the vibrant mosaic of Israeli life. Their visit included going to the ancient streets of Jerusalem, the Western Wall, and the Old City, and tasting the flavors of traditional cuisine. They likewise floated effortlessly on the Dead Sea's mineral-rich waters.

"Our visit to Israel has been nothing short of transformative," said Margarette Lumauag, one of the participating Filipino travel agents.

"It was incredible to witness the blending of ancient history with modern life. This trip has equipped us with invaluable knowledge and insights that will enhance our ability to curate memorable experiences for our clients," she added.

The familiarization tour also highlighted Israel's potential as a prime destination for Filipino travelers seeking a meaningful cultural and spiritual experience including Tel Aviv's nightlife and Galilee's serene landscapes.

The Filipino travel agents also met the Israel Ministry of Tourism’s Asian department Marketing Administrator Taimur Mansour, who invited Filipinos to explore the diverse and enriching experiences that Israel has to offer.

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