Simon's Town, Western Cape: Coastal Living with Heritage on False Bay

Introduction

Simon's Town, Western Cape, is a historic seaside town on the False Bay coastline of the Cape Peninsula within the City of Cape Town. Known for its naval heritage, walkable village character, and access to Boulders Beach’s African penguin colony, it offers a distinctive coastal lifestyle. Buyers and residents are drawn to sea views, outdoor recreation, and solid amenities, while the area’s heritage buildings and working harbour give Simons Town a strong sense of place.

Location and Accessibility

Situated about 40 km south of Cape Town’s CBD, Simon’s Town lines the M4 (Main Road) past Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, and Fish Hoek, with scenic drives to Cape Point via the M65. The M64 (Ou Kaapse Weg) offers an inland link to the Southern Suburbs. Simon’s Town station is the terminus of the Metrorail Southern Line, and the area is served by Golden Arrow buses, minibus taxis, and e‑hailing services. Cape Town International Airport is typically 45–60 minutes away by car, traffic dependent.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Life in Simon’s Town balances outdoor living with village convenience. Harbour Bay Centre provides everyday shopping, eateries, and medical suites, while St George’s Street hosts cafés, galleries, and independent stores near Jubilee Square. The South African Naval Museum and Simon’s Town Museum anchor the town’s heritage appeal. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Boulders, Seaforth, and Long Beach, kayaking with penguins, sailing from False Bay Yacht Club, scuba diving at the popular Long Beach training site, and hiking in Table Mountain National Park towards Cape Point. Schooling includes Simon’s Town School with the Lawhill Maritime Centre, with further options in Fish Hoek and Sun Valley. Healthcare access includes False Bay Hospital in Fish Hoek and larger private hospitals in Tokai and Claremont.

Upcoming Events

Simon’s Town’s calendar reflects its maritime and conservation character. The False Bay Yacht Club regularly hosts regattas and club racing that animate the harbourfront. Seasonal whale-watching along False Bay (generally winter to spring) and conservation-focused activities linked to Boulders Beach and SANParks draw visitors. Community gatherings, markets, and festive-season concerts on Jubilee Square are well attended, while museum open days and heritage walks showcase the town’s naval and architectural history. These recurring activities help maintain a lively yet relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Property Market Overview

The Simon’s Town property mix ranges from historic cottages and Victorian-era homes near the harbour to modern sea-facing apartments and townhouses on the slopes. Established neighborhoods such as Seaforth, Froggy Farm, Glencairn, Glencairn Heights, and Cairnside offer varied plots and views, while estates like Stonehaven and lifestyle options near Harbour Bay appeal to buyers seeking security and convenience. Demand spans retirees, semigrants, and professionals commuting to the Southern Suburbs, as well as investors targeting holiday rentals due to year-round tourism and the town’s enduring coastal appeal.

Conclusion

Simon's Town, Western Cape, blends False Bay scenery, maritime heritage, and practical amenities into a compelling residential choice. With good transport links, outdoor recreation, and a range of property types, it suits both lifestyle seekers and investors. Explore current homes and investment opportunities in Simons Town on MyProperty.co.za.