This has to be one of the most delightful outings for a family. If you are in Cape Town for a few days it is really worth packing a picnic and heading for the oldest naval port in Cape Town. Simon’s Town, named after the first governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel, was founded in 1680 so has a long history. It’s quirky, fun and full of surprises. But most of all it is home to the delightful African penguin. It’s great to go early in the morning as the town does get very busy and Boulders beach is highly popular. (http://www.nature-reserve.co.za/boulders-beach-penguins-simons-town.html )
You have the choice of the Boulders parking lot or Seaforth. If you want to go down to the beach and swim with the penguins, head for the Boulders parking. Swimming with the penguins is a unique and extraordinary experience. The beach is secluded and intimate. The huge Cape granite boulders provide an awesome backdrop for the crystal clear blues and greys of the sea water. The penguins provide the show though as they waddle, beak kiss and chat endlessly to their mates. They are extraordinary birds – custom built for total efficiency in the water. They can dive as deep as 130 m but on average they go down to 30 m, they can swim as fast as 20 km an hour but on average they swim at 7km per hour. Check out the pink patch on above their eye – if it’s dark it means they are feeling the heat. It’s a sweat gland that is sensitive to heat. Do be careful though as they have a sharp beak and can bite so please don’t let your children get too close. The dots on their tummies are their tummy prints – no two penguins have the same configuration. Go penguin dot spotting and check it out. From November to January, the penguins start to moult and they look untidy and very unhappy. This is not surprising as during this time they cannot feed as they can’t go in the water so do be aware that they get very grumpy!
Have fun on the beach – build sand castles, go boulder jumping, tell stories but most of all drink in the incredible beauty around you. Children and penguins have one main thing in common – they frolic with careless abandon so enjoy the moment!
After the beach head for the Jubilee Square and look for the statue of a Great Dane in the middle of the square. He is “Just Nuisance” and is very famous. He was the only dog to ever be officially admitted to the Royal Navy. This lovable pup served on HMS Afrikander which was based in Simon’s Town between 1939 and 1944. He used to travel on trains and keep an eye on the sailors. After they had had a few too many drinks, he would escort them safely back to barracks. Everyone loved him and your children will love to hear the story about him. There are great places in Jubilee Square to grab a drink and a nibble if you feel like it.
If you are an active family, go shark diving or sea kayaking in the Bay – it is an awesome experience. There is something utterly magical about meandering through the coves and boulders and watching the penguins in their own environment. There are plenty of tour operators who offer this opportunity.
Spend time meandering through the town and enjoying the sights and sounds of this delightful seaside port. You won’t regret it.
To finish off an amazing experience download the Boulders book: http://www.capeforkids.co.za/Montys-Picnic-with-the-Penguins.aspx
Make penguin puppets and tell family stories.
Have fun with this activity book. Click here to download.
