What this paddle is about
The Penguin Paddle is our shortest and most accessible ocean tour. We launch from sheltered Simon's Town harbour and follow the granite-boulder coastline a few kilometres south to Boulders Beach.
It's a beginner-friendly route in protected False Bay water, with the rare privilege of seeing the famous African penguin colony from the sea — a perspective most visitors never get.
Your day on the water
After a relaxed beach briefing, ski fit and balance test, your guide leads you out of Simon's Town harbour and along the rocky coves towards Boulders.
Within twenty minutes you're paddling past granite boulders with penguins porpoising next to your ski, popping up between strokes and waddling on the beaches behind them.
We linger off the colony at a respectful distance for photos and wildlife watching, then paddle back to Simon's Town with the prevailing breeze behind us.
Step by step on the water
- 1
Simon's Town harbour launch
Sheltered, safe launch with full briefing and ski fit.
- 2
Seaforth coves
Easy paddle along the kelp line and granite coves.
- 3
Boulders penguin coastline
Eye-level views of African penguins from a respectful offshore line — we never paddle inside the protected colony.
- 4
Return to Simon's Town
Easy paddle back to the harbour with the prevailing breeze.
Penguin Kayaking in Simon’s Town
Trip pricing
- Guided penguin kayaking tourFrom R850 pp
- Private guided penguin kayaking tourFrom R1,800 pp
Shuttle & transport
- Shared shuttle from Cape Town CBDR200 – R350 pp
- Private transfer (1–4 people)R1,500 – R3,000
What's included
- Suitable kayak or surfski, paddle, PFD and leash — all necessary kayaking equipment is included in the advertised trip price
- Experienced local ocean guide
- Briefing, PFD, leash and stable beginner surfski
- Bottled water and trail snacks
- Live wind and shark spotter monitoring
Not included
- Personal travel and watersports insurance
- Gratuities for your guide (optional)
- Meals outside what's listed as included
Ocean conditions
Calm to light south-easter, swell under 1m, run in the morning window when False Bay is at its glassiest.
Fitness requirements
Suitable for active travellers and first-time paddlers. Comfortable swimming required. We tailor pace and distance to the group.
Safety
- All trips led by an experienced ocean guide trained in sea rescue and first aid
- Live weather, wind and swell monitoring — trips are rescheduled if conditions aren't safe
- PFDs, leashes and marine VHF carried on every paddle
- Small group ratios with a guide who paddles alongside you the whole way
What to bring
- Swimwear, rash vest and quick-dry layer
- Cap, polarised sunglasses with strap, reef-safe sunscreen
- Light windbreaker for the boat or shuttle ride home
- Water bottle and a small dry bag (we can supply)
- Sense of adventure and a love for the ocean
Best time of year
Year-round. Mornings are calmest. Penguins are present on the colony all year, with the biggest numbers from February to August.
Find the launch
Penguin Kayaking Simon's Town, answered
Ask about this trip
Send us your dates to check availability and discuss the forecast. Our team will reply as soon as possible.
