In 1814 the English colonial rulers of the Cape turned Simons Town into a Naval Base and it has remained one ever since. In 1940 when the sailors’ favourite Great Dane dog created a nuisance of himself on the trains, a request was sent to the British parliament asking for him to be enlisted in the Navy. Permission was granted and the dog was brought to the Recruiting Officer who enquired, “Name?” “Nuisance, Sir”, the sailor replied. “First name?” “Just nuisance, Sir,” the sailor stated. ‘Able Seaman Just Nuisance’ was the only dog ever to hold rank in the Royal Navy and he became a legend in his own lifetime. He died prematurely after a boisterous leap from a moving vehicle but is immortalised in a life-sized statue in Simons Town’s Jubilee Square.

Simons Town is a delightful area to spend some of your holiday and a visit to the rare African Jackass Penguin colony at Boulder’s Beach, a couple of kilometres out of Simons Town, should not be missed. Further along the road towards Cape Point you are very likely to come across the resident troop of baboons who rule the road and jump onto car bonnets to peer nonchalantly in.

Accommodation in Simons Town

Midlands  Reservations
Jenny offers a very friendly and professional service to book accommodation in South Africa. She is passionate about South Africa and thinks everyone should be visiting and exploring this country. She believes it should be an affordable experience. Over the years She has researched rural retreats, farm stays, and all kinds of adventure holidays in South Africa. She specializes in the Western Cape including Simons Town and I cannot imagine a tourist being in better hands when planning a vacation

Accommodation in Simons Town
This website is the best I have yet come across for accommodation in South Africa. You communicate directly with the accommodation establishment and the entire booking is carried out online.

Attractions in and around Simons Town

Cape Point Ostrich Farm
From boulders beach lodge, it is a mere 30 minute drive to the valley of Constantia, the cradle of the wine industry in South Africa where the first quality wines were produced. Wine estates open for wine tasting and cellar tours include: Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia, Buitenverwagting and Constantia Uitsig

Boulders Costal Park: 
Boulders has become world famous for its thriving colony of African penguins and sheltered safe beaches. From just 2 breeding pairs of penguins in 1982, the colony has grown to about 4000 in recent years. Boulders forms part of the cape peninsula national park (CPNP). Elevated boardwalks provide excellent viewing opportunities for penguins and whales. Information service provided by staff.

The Scratch Patch 
this is the world's largest gemstone tumbling factory, where you can hunt for inexpensive polished rejects in a "scratch patch".

Simons Town
Simon's town is steeped in history dating back to the early Dutch and British settlements. The area known as the "historic mile", the heart of the town, boasts a great variety of architecturally interesting buildings. A fine nautical museum details the town's history; another recreates its naval roots. Simon's town is home to a number of good restaurants (seafood is the specialty), antique shops, fine walks, and other visitors' services.

Cape Peninsula Winelands
From boulders beach lodge, it is a mere 30 minute drive to the valley of Constantia, the cradle of the wine industry in South Africa where the first quality wines were produced. Wine estates open for wine tasting and cellar tours include: Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia, Buitenverwagting and Constantia UitsigActivities in and around Simons Town

Golf
play a round of golf on the southern most golf course at Simon’s town country club situated adjacent to boulders beach overlooking false bay.

Kayaking
Kayak in probably one of the quaintest little coves in the world and the penguins chose it! This is just one of the many granite- strewn bays in the area, perfect for viewing sea life from a kayak. After visiting the penguins, stop on a lovely semi-private beach for refreshments, swimming and snorkelling.

Traditional Sailing
Experience the magic of sailing on a traditional vessel from Simon’s town to boulders

Simons Town Boat trip: 
Departs from the town pier and take a slow cruise around Simon’s bay, where you will enjoy all the historic sights and splendid scenery of beautiful Simon’s town. Along the way you’ll be sure to encounter some seals and birdlife and, non occasions, even dolphins or whales. Continue into the South African naval harbour where you can view the ships, including strike-craft and submarines. An informative and entertaining commentary makes the cruise equally exciting for locals and tourists alike and a great education for children!