Simon’s Town, often hailed as the gateway to the Marine Big 5, is brimming with an array of fun-filled activities a stone’s throw away from Boulders Beach.
Here are a few places to go and things to do while you enjoy Simon’s Town and its close surrounding areas.
The Warrior Toy Museum
Discover over 4,000 model cars, 500 dolls and a working miniature vintage training set when you visit the Warrior Toy Museum. There are also various toys you can purchase.
Address: St George’s Street, Simons Town
Cost: R10 for adults and R5 for children
Contact details: +27 21 786 1395
Website: facebook.com/Warrior-Toy-Museum
The Scratch Patch
Did you know that almost half of the world’s gemstones are found in South Africa and that you can find them right here in Cape Town? Visit the Scratch Patch and Mineral World in Simon’s Town and collect your own tumble-polished precious gemstones.
Address: Dido Valley Road, Simon’s Town
Cost: From R30
Contact details: +27 21 786 2020
Website: scratchpatch.co.za
Play Putt-Putt
Put your skills to the test with a round of mini golf. This fun, sometimes challenging, outdoor course is fun for all ages. You can meander downwards from the back of the Scratch Patch through a series of rock walls, obstacles, ancient relics and even an underground waterfall.
Address: Dido Valley Road, Simon’s Town
Cost: From R35
Contact details: +27 21 786 2020
Website: scratchpatch.co.za
Pedal Across the Sea
Discover a new and exciting way to explore the ocean around Simon’s Town by hopping on the world’s most advanced water bike. These premium watercrafts are non-motorised and eco-friendly. The bikes are easy to use and simple to steer. Balancing is not a requirement.
Location: Simon’s Town Jetty, Wharf Street, Simon’s Town
Cost: R490 for a 1-hour session (13yrs and older)
Contact details: +27 83 777 1048 or info@capetownwaterbikes.co.za
Website: https://capetownwaterbikes.co.za/
Explore Wrecks and Reefs
The Cape waters are littered with thousands of shipwrecks. From recent to ancient, on the shoreline to deep in the ocean. Explore several wrecks ranging from 12m to 40m with Pisces Divers. This PADI Five Star Instructor Development dive centre offers a full range of PADI dive training and daily dive excursions.
Location: 1 Main Rd, Simon’s Town
Cost: R2,200
Contact details: +27 21 786 3799 or info@piscesdivers.co.za
Website: piscesdivers.co.za
Penguin Paddle at Seaforth Beach
Get up close to the African penguins on this Penguin Paddle Sea Kayak Adventure at Seaforth Beach. Explore the coves and inlets of this marine protected reserve while discovering unique sea life along the way
Location: 1 Main Rd, Simon’s Town
Cost: R450 for a 2-hour session
Contact details: +27 74 620 1525 or ross@absoluteadventures.co.za
Website: www.absoluteadventures.co.za/
Hike to Admirals Waterfall
This easy 3km trail will take approximately 1.5 hours to reach the waterfall. Take the footpath at the end of Barnard Street and proceed up the gentle slope to the top where the Admiral’s Waterfall and pool are tucked away. Plan a picnic here and take in the stunning views of Simon’s Town harbour.
Location: Barnard Street, Simons Town
Cost: Free
Visit Just Nuisance
Take a trip to Jubilee Square, where the statue of the famous dog and able seaman, Just Nuisance, sits. You can also hike up the steep flight of steps to the grave of this famous canine.
Location: St George’s Street, Simon’s Town
Cost: Free
Swim in a secluded tidal pool
Considered a hidden gem, Miller’s Point tidal pool has exquisite sweeping views over the rocky bay. This attraction also features a small water slide, a couple of sheltered natural sea pools, braai areas and picnic spots.
Location: Millers Point (5km from Simon’s Town, beyond Boulders and Seaforth)
Cost: Free
Stopover at the South African Naval Museum
Delve into a different side of South Africa’s maritime history with incredible exhibitions like the historic clock tower, the Mast House, a submarine and more. The museum is open every day to the public.
Location: St George’s Street, Simon’s Town
Cost: Free (donations are welcome)
Contact details: +27 21 787 4686
Website: https://sanavymuseum.co.za/
