A year ago, twenty-three-year-old Aakifah Slarmie stepped outside her comfort zone by choosing to start her days at the crack of dawn doing things that brought her joy. Now a viral TikTok sensation, she uses her platform to inspire others to rise early and explore the city.
The Deep South-based full-time student teacher and content creator loves adventure, whether she’s cold plunging in a tidal pool at sunrise, heading out for a 5km run, or taking a mindful walk.
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This is her half-day itinerary for exploring the Deep South:
Simon’s Town Museum
For Aakifah, the Simon’s Town Museum is linked to some of her most treasured childhood memories. She recalls visiting the museum with her grandparents, wandering through the exhibits while listening to stories about the people who shaped the area. If you look closely while exploring, you might even spot the Slarmie name woven into some of the museum’s historical records.
“It takes me straight back down memory lane,” she says. “Visiting the museum with my grandparents, hearing the stories of the community, and seeing just how far we’ve come.”
This year, the museum, housed in what was once the Simon’s Town Magistrate’s Court, marks its 249th anniversary. Over the centuries, the buildings have served as a hospital, post office, school, customs house, police station, and magistrate’s court.
Location: Court Rd, Simon’s Town
Price: R20 per adult and R5 for children
Website: www.simonstownmuseum.org.za
Hike to Admiral’s Waterfall
While Aakifah is accustomed to a 5km run, she also enjoys a short, scenic hike, and Admiral’s Waterfall is her go-to spot. This easy 1.4 km trail takes about 20 minutes and is best enjoyed in winter or during the rainy season when the waterfall is flowing. Start at the footpath at the end of Barnard Street and follow the gentle uphill path to the top, where Admiral’s Waterfall is tucked away. There’s a bit of scrambling near the end, but once you arrive, it feels like your own hidden paradise. Pack a picnic and take in the stunning views over Simon’s Town harbour.
Location: Barnard Street, Simon’s Town
Cost: Free
Ice cream at Ice-Café
To cool down after the hike, Aakifah takes a quick drive to her favourite ice-cream shop in Kalk Bay: Ice Café. Situated just opposite the train station, this well-loved spot offers authentic Italian gelato, with 21 flavours rotating daily, so there’s always something tempting to try. “I am a vanilla girlie through and through,” she says. “You cannot go wrong with a classic.”
Location: 92 Main Rd, Kalk Bay
Price: From R39.50
Dalebrook Tidal Pool and Beach
One of Cape Town’s most-loved tidal pools, Dalebrook, sits snugly between the railway line and the ocean. Aakifah prefers an early start and usually heads here in the morning to catch the sunrise. The water is warmer here, and the pool is mostly protected from the wind, which explains why locals flock here to cool off during summer.
Location: Off Main Road, Dalebrook
Price: Free
Website: www.capetown.go.za/dalebrook
The Secret Pool in Kalk Bay
There’s this one spot Aakifah can’t get enough of… and hardly anyone knows about it.
“I might regret this later, but it’s too good not to share,” she laughs.
The Secret Pool is tucked away in Kalk Bay. To find it, park at the top of the harbour, walk past Harbour House, and follow the footpath to the very end until you reach the rock pool with insane ocean views. Pro tip: There are sea urchins in the pool, so watch your step.
Location: Kalk Bay Harbour, Kalk Bay
Price: Free
