Nestled in historic Simon's Town in South Africa, Boulders Penguin Colony is part of the Cape Peninsula National Park.. Almost 3000 African (jackass) penguins, so called because their call resembles the bray of a donkey, reign supreme amidst rounded rocks and fish-filled False Bay. These endangered, flightless birds are free to roam the seas and return to their private haven.

Although set in the midst of residential area, it is one of the few sites where this fascinating bird can be observed at close range, wandering freely in a protected natural environment. The most popular recreational spot is Boulders Beach, but the penguins are best viewed from Foxy Beach, where newly constructed boardwalks take visitors to within a few metres of the birds. Visitors can observe the penguins closely on the beach and even swim in the sea with them, fun for all ages.

The best time to visit is in the early evening with a sundowner picnic. This is the time when penguins come back from their fishing expeditions and waddle up the beach to go to their nests under the bushes. They are so comfortable with humans that they generally will walk right up to visitors.

The area provides excellent viewing spots and also features popular, pristine bathing beaches. Seals, sharks and dolphins are often found in the sheltered bays around Boulders as well and if you are in here between August and December, you might be lucky enough to spot the Southern Right and Bryde's Whale.