About
History
Simon's Town, Cape Town
Nestled along the shores of False Bay, Simon’s Town is an idyllic coastal destination that seamlessly blends rich maritime history with vibrant natural beauty. As a naval base for over two centuries, the town is steeped in heritage, both British and Dutch, featuring beautifully preserved architecture and the legendary story of Just Nuisance, the world-famous Great Dane of the wartime Royal Navy. At Cape Point, just 20 minutes away, is an internationally acclaimed exhibition where you can learn about the very earliest history of modern humans, indigenous to this area and ancestors of us all. Visit www.sanparks.org.
As elsewhere in South Africa, Simon’s Town unfortunately carries scars from the Apartheid era. In 1968 the richly diverse community was torn apart when it was forced to separate along racial lines. African people and those of mixed race were removed to other areas. This tragic time is well documented in the local museum. Visit www.simonstown.com. Those laws were of course revoked in 1994 and there have been some efforts towards re-integration and reparation, but it has been a slow process.
These days visitors can wander through colourful streets lined with eclectic coffee shops, local artisan boutiques, and vintage stores, or enjoy classic “fish ‘n chips” at the historic harbour, all while soaking in the town’s charming, slow-paced atmosphere.
Simon’s Town also serves as a gateway to extraordinary wildlife and outdoor adventure. It is home to the iconic African penguin colony at Boulders Beach, where ancient granite boulders shelter pristine swimming spots. For those seeking active exploration, the area offers world-class diving, kayaking, and hiking trails like the scenic walk to Admiral’s Waterfall. Its unique location within the Cape Floral Kingdom also makes it a biodiversity hotspot, providing a perfect base just 45 minutes from Cape Town to experience the “Marine Big Five” and the stunning natural wonders of the Cape Peninsula.
Sea and clouds competing for attention.
Peter on his early morning swim.
Sunrise at Fisherman's beach. Photo by Rob Burchell.
Diane after some strenuous body surfing in Fish Hoek
A view of the mountain from the sea. Cape Seaforever just visible on the right.
Your Hosts
Diane & Peter
We like to be on hand to welcome you and ensure your stay is a good one while respecting your privacy.
Diane (South African) is the home maker and architect of the apartment. She is a keen gardener and enjoys snorkelling with her husband Peter who is English but well acclimatised after more than 30 years here.
Peter is a facilitator of complex dialogues and author of Becoming Good at Crises: A Field Guide for Leaders.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Policies & Things to do
Checkin & Checkout
Checkin is from 2.00pm. Checkout is before 10.30 am
We live on the premises and will either be here to welcome you or ensure access.
Cancellation Policy
More than 24 hours before check-in: 100% deposit refunded.
Less than 24 hours before check-in: 0% deposit refunded.
Environmental Commitment
Because of our commitment to a healthy environment and reducing our carbon footprint, we have invested accordingly. You will find these features.
- Solar heated hot water and pool.
- A cover on the pool to reduce evaporation and conserve water.
- Photovoltaic solar energy which means we draw very little from the national supply.
- Water tanks to collect rainwater and to recycle our pool water as needed.
- A pesticide free garden.
- Natural cleaning products.
- Recycling of waste which we invite you to join us in.
Trains
There is a train service up to Cape Town along a lovely scenic route. It takes about 1 hour and avoids the traffic. The section from Simon's Town to Fish Hoek is sometimes disrupted by sand on the line so it is best to check.
Taxis
The local taxi service we recommend is Noordhoek Taxis: Tel: +27 (0)71 234 7021
For access around Simon’s Town there is Hakuna Matuktuk
There is also Uber although they are not always keen to come this far out.
Restaurants & Shopping
There are a number of restaurants in the area. We no longer recommend specific ones as we find they change from time to time. Ask us when you are here and we will give our best advice. Check www.Simonstown.com for local information.
The main shopping area is at Harbour Bay Mall, between Simons Town and Glencairn. There you will find Woolworths, Pick and Pay and many interesting small shops and eateries.
Boulders Penguin Colony
This is a must, especially for younger visitors.
Cape Point Nature Reserve
This is well worth a visit. What the web site may not tell you is:
- In summer the queues can be long. Best get there early.
- SA citizens pay less but must show their SA ID card.
- There is a wonderful museum, not well signposted, about early human origins in this area. Do not miss it.
- Do NOT attempt to picnic there. Baboons raids will make it unpleasant.
SA Navy Museum
There is also a newly set up submarine museum nearby.
Simon’s Town Museum
This holds the heritage of this interesting little town, from its earliest colonial history, through several wars, its apartheid traumas to its more recent peaceful existence.
Whale and Dolphin Watching
For a wonderful tour of False Bay with the chance of seeing whales and dolphins, you can’t do better than a trip with Dave Hurwitz.
The Kelp Forest
Made famous by our neighbour Craig Foster in the Netflix movie, My Octopus Teacher, this beautiful feature of our coast is available for you to explore. It offers easy access to snorkeling or scuba diving. There are several dive outfits in town who will assist you.