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Luxury Coastal Estates Western Cape

Simon's Town & False Bay: The Ocean Adventurer’s Dream Destination



If you’re yearning for a journey filled with natural beauty, rich history, and marine adventures, then Simon’s Town and the False Bay area should top your bucket list. This picturesque coastal town is a hidden gem for travellers who seek something beyond the usual tourist experience. Whether you’re an ocean adventurer, a history buff, or a food lover, Simon’s Town has something to offer. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the town’s most fascinating attractions, secret spots, and thrilling activities that only locals know.

 

A Town Steeped in History



Simon’s Town dates back to the 1650s, with a deep-rooted maritime history. Once a naval base, it’s still home to South Africa’s navy and boasts an impressive collection of beautifully preserved buildings and cultural landmarks. Walk through the streets and you’ll come across the iconic Simon's Town Naval Museum, showcasing the town’s military past. Another must-see is the statue of Just Nuisance, a Great Dane who was famously enlisted into the Royal Navy, and who even has his own annual commemorative birthday parade!



Embark on an Audio Tour.

Discovering a new destination is always more enriching when guided by a knowledgeable local, and in this audio tour, storyteller and writer Maureen Miller leads you on a captivating journey along Simon’s Town’s Historic Mile. During this tour, she will share intriguing tales about historical and modern navies, Admiralty House, thundering cannons, and Jubilee Square. The tour begins at the Simon’s Town train station and concludes in the village center, offering an immersive experience from start to finish.

 

To begin your adventure, download the VoiceMap app and the Simon’s Town Tour.

 

Exploring Main Street and the Historic Mile in Simon's Town, South Africa.

 


Dive into the Museums.

 

For those interested in delving deeply into the rich history of Simon’s Town, the town boasts several museums. The Simon’s Town Museum, located in ‘The Residency’—a building constructed in 1777 as the winter residence for the Dutch East India Company Governor at the Cape—has served numerous roles over the years, including as a hospital, post office, school, customs house, police station, jail, and magistrate’s court. Today, the Simon’s Town Museum focuses on collecting and displaying the cultural history of the town’s people and their connections to the Dutch East India Company and the Royal Navy.

 

Additionally, the South African Naval Museum offers a comprehensive look at the country’s naval history, tracing its roots back to 1922 with the establishment of the South African Naval Service, through its expansion and involvement in the Second World War (1939-1945). The museum features modern naval operations, including models of submarines, a life-size submarine control room, naval guns, torpedoes, and more. There are also exhibits highlighting the historical ties with the British Royal Navy, the age of sail, and South Africa’s participation in the First World War (1914-1918).

 

Penguins and Pristine Beaches

Of course, no trip to Simon’s Town is complete without a visit to Boulders Beach. Famous for its colony of African penguins, this sheltered cove offers more than just adorable penguins—it’s also a pristine swimming spot, perfect for families with kids thanks to its calm waters and ancient boulders protecting the shoreline. For those in the know, secret coves lie beyond the main beach, offering quieter retreats and incredible wildlife sightings.



 Hidden Gems & Scenic Hikes

Venture off the beaten path to discover some lesser-known spots. Admiral’s Waterfall is a secret paradise known mainly to locals. This short but rewarding hike leads you to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Another gem is the Just Nuisance’s Grave—a challenging but scenic climb, rewarding you with panoramic views over False Bay from the summit. Pack a picnic or stop by one of Simon’s Town’s top restaurants afterward for well-deserved refreshments.


Diving, Snorkelling & The Marine Big Five

If you’re after an unforgettable ocean adventure, you’re in the right place. The False Bay area is famous for its Marine Big Five: whales, sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins. Between June and November, Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales grace False Bay’s waters, and you can spot them on a boat tour or while enjoying activities like kayaking or water biking.

 


Thrill-seekers can try shark cage diving or get up close to seals and penguins with snorkelling tours. If you prefer something more relaxed, sea kayaking will take you through crystal-clear waters, offering views of dolphins and other marine life.


For those interested in marine conservation, Cape RADD offers unique citizen science experiences where you can contribute to research while exploring the ocean.


 

Top Eateries in Simon’s Town

No trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine, and Simon’s Town boasts an impressive array of dining options.



  • The Lighthouse Café is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Famous for its fish and chips, this laid-back bistro is perfect for a casual yet delicious meal.

  • Black Marlin is a local favourite, known for its exceptional calamari and seafood dishes, with spectacular views of False Bay.

  • Bertha’s Restaurant offers a charming spot on the harbour, ideal for families with its kid-friendly atmosphere and classic seafood dishes.

  • For quick bites, Salty Sea Dog serves up some of the best fish and chips on the quayside.

  • Fran’s Place and Seaforth Restaurant are also excellent choices for enjoying local seafood, with stunning waterfront views.

For something more upscale, Saveur provides an elegant dining experience, perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

 

Local Treasures

As you explore Simon’s Town, don’t miss Jubilee Square. Here, you’ll find a vibrant array of local art, African curios, and often traditional performances, including local African dances that will make your experience in Simon’s Town even more memorable. Wander the quaint streets and discover unique coffee shops, eclectic boutiques, and vintage stores filled with oddities and curiosities. For an authentic seaside town experience, grab a bicycle and ride through the colourful streets, taking in the sights at your own pace.


 



Fynbos & Floral Kingdom



It’s not just the ocean that’s impressive—Simon’s Town is also home to one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. The Cape Floral Kingdom is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the fynbos surrounding the area offers a stunning display of unique plant species. With over 8,500 species of fynbos, 5,800 of which are found nowhere else on Earth, this is a true natural wonder that deserves to be explored.

 

Where to Stay

Whether you’re looking for luxury or something more modest, Simon’s Town offers excellent accommodations:

 

  • Cassandra is an elegant, ocean-view property that feels like a home away from home. With panoramic views and stylish interiors, it’s ideal for a peaceful retreat.

 


  • Tintswalo at Boulders offers exclusive access to the famous penguin colony and luxurious, tranquil rooms with breathtaking sea views. Perfect for travellers who want to stay close to nature without sacrificing comfort.


  • Eastcliffe is quirky, charming and full of soul, a home in an amazing location with a relaxed feel and atmosphere. Proximity to beach and amenities, shops and restaurants is extremely convenient and walking seems to be most of the locals mode of transport. Muizenberg surf lessons, lulling at St James tidal pool, browsing through the arty, off the wall and creative shops of Kalk Bay, sipping on delicious wine whilst devouring fresh crayfish, the diversity is huge, and its all on your doorstep! A must experience for everyone.



The Ultimate Ocean Adventurer's Destination

 

Simon's Town is a paradise for ocean lovers. Whether you're into deep-sea fishing, kayak fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, or just relaxing on the beach, this town offers endless possibilities for aquatic adventures. Dive with the experts at Impact Divers or set out on an eco-sensitive shark tour with Apex Shark Expeditions. With options like Pisces Divers for professional PADI diving courses or exclusive charters with Oceans Africa, you can tailor your ocean adventure just the way you like it.

 

Other activities within a 15 km radius of Simon’s Town.



  • Scratch Patch – Sift through thousands of polished gemstones, perfect for a family-friendly stop in Simon’s Town.

  • Cape Point Nature Reserve – Explore scenic hiking trails, the iconic Cape Point Lighthouse, and panoramic views at the tip of the Cape Peninsula.

  • Muizenberg Beach – Famous for its colourful beach huts and ideal surfing conditions for beginners.

  • Muizenberg Water Slides – A fun and thrilling family-friendly water park near the beach.

  • Rhodes Cottage Museum – Discover the history of Cecil John Rhodes in this small, charming museum in St. James.

  • Kalk Bay – A vibrant coastal town filled with quirky shops, art galleries, and excellent seafood restaurants.

  • Kalk Bay Harbour – Watch fishermen at work, enjoy fresh fish straight from the boats, or go for a scenic stroll.

  • Boomslang Cave Trail – Embark on an adventurous hike through Kalk Bay’s unique cave system with rewarding bay views.

  • Silvermine Nature Reserve – Hike, picnic, or take a dip in the reservoir while enjoying stunning natural surroundings.

  • Cape Point Vineyards – Sample world-class wines at this beautiful vineyard in Noordhoek, with breathtaking mountain and ocean views.



In Closing.

Whether you're visiting for the ocean adventures, the rich history, or simply to relax by the sea, Simon's Town and the False Bay are offers something special for every traveller. Its laid-back charm, unique wildlife, and hidden local gems make it a must-visit destination in the Western Cape. So why wait? We can help build your dream holiday with access to the best accommodation options across the Western Cape. Email lee@luxurycoastalescapes.com and book your dream holiday. Season has started. Don't delay.


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