Kalk Bay to Simon's Town on Foot: A False Bay Coastal Walk
Kalk Bay to Simon's Town on Foot: A False Bay Coastal Walk
A practical guide to walking the False Bay coast from Kalk Bay to Simon's Town, with route details, timing, and where to stay.
The Route: From Kalk Bay to Simon's Town
The walk begins in Kalk Bay, a working harbour village on the False Bay coast. From the main road, follow the signs for the Spookhuis walk, which leads up to a rocky path above the railway line. The route hugs the coastline, offering views of the bay and the chance to spot seals and seabirds. The path is well-trodden but can be uneven, so wear sturdy shoes. After about 2.5 kilometres, you'll reach Fish Hoek, a long sandy beach popular with locals. Continue along the beach or the promenade to the southern end, where the path resumes.
From Fish Hoek, the walk climbs gently over the Glencairn cliffs, passing the ruins of the old Glencairn quarry. The views here are spectacular, stretching across False Bay to the Hottentots Holland Mountains. The path then descends to Glencairn Beach, a quiet cove with a small railway station. From Glencairn, follow the coastal road or the path behind the railway line to Simon's Town, about 4 kilometres further. The final stretch passes the Simon's Town Country Club and the False Bay Hospital before entering the historic naval town. The total distance is roughly 10 kilometres, taking 3 to 4 hours at a leisurely pace.
What to See and When to Go
The walk is best done on a clear day, as the path is exposed and can be windy. The best months are March to May and September to November, when temperatures are mild and the wind is calmer. Summer (December to February) can be hot, so start early and carry water. Winter (June to August) brings rain and slippery paths, but the crowds are thinner. Along the way, look out for the Kalk Bay harbour seals, the Fish Hoek penguin colony (a small group often seen on the beach), and the historic Milepost 5 marker on the Glencairn path. In Simon's Town, don't miss the Boulders Beach penguin colony, just a short detour from the main route.
The walk is not a loop, so you'll need to plan your return. The reliable Metrorail train runs from Simon's Town back to Kalk Bay hourly (check schedules locally). Alternatively, arrange a shuttle or use a ride-hailing app. There are no formal facilities along the path except in Fish Hoek and Simon's Town, so carry snacks and water. The path is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs due to stairs and uneven surfaces. Dogs are allowed on leads. If you're short on time, the section from Kalk Bay to Fish Hoek (about 1 hour) is the most scenic and can be done as a shorter out-and-back walk.
Where to Stay: Kalk Bay or Simon's Town?
Both ends of the walk offer good accommodation options. Kalk Bay has a lively village atmosphere with boutique guesthouses and self-catering apartments, many with sea views. Prices for a double room range from around R1,200 to R2,500 per night in peak season. Simon's Town is quieter, with a mix of historic hotels and B&Bs, often slightly cheaper (R900 to R2,000). If you want to explore the restaurants and shops of Kalk Bay, stay there; if you prefer a base for visiting Boulders Beach and the naval museum, Simon's Town is convenient. For a balanced trip, I would book two nights in Kalk Bay and one in Simon's Town.
Consider your transport needs. Kalk Bay is well-connected by train to Cape Town city centre (about 40 minutes), making it easy to visit without a car. Simon's Town is the end of the line, so you'll rely on the train or taxis. If you have a car, parking in Kalk Bay can be tight, especially on weekends. Many guesthouses offer off-street parking. For families, Fish Hoek, midway along the walk, has self-catering flats and a calm beach, but it lacks the charm of the other two. I would skip the big chain hotels in the city centre for this trip; the village guesthouses offer a more authentic experience.
Practical Tips and What to Skip
Start the walk from Kalk Bay station if you're using the train; the path begins just behind the station. Bring a windbreaker, even on sunny days, as the Cape Doctor (south-easter) can be fierce. There are public toilets in Kalk Bay harbour and Fish Hoek beach, but none in between. The path is generally safe, but avoid walking alone after dark. The train between Simon's Town and Kalk Bay is cheap and frequent, but check the schedule as services are reduced on Sundays. If you're not confident with the full distance, the Kalk Bay to Fish Hoek section is the most rewarding and can be combined with a train ride back.
Skip the temptation to walk along the main road (Miller's Point Road) between Fish Hoek and Simon's Town; it's busy and less scenic. Also skip the Glencairn cliff path in strong winds, as it can be exposed. Instead, take the train for that section if conditions are poor. For lunch, the Kalk Bay harbour has fresh fish and chips, but avoid the touristy spots on the main road; the smaller cafes on the side streets are better value. In Simon's Town, the Bertha's restaurant is popular, but book ahead. Overall, this walk is a highlights reel of the Cape Peninsula, and staying in Kalk Bay gives you the best base to enjoy it.
Before you book
The questions people ask about Cape Town, answered with this month’s numbers.
The full 10-kilometre walk takes 3 to 4 hours at a leisurely pace, including stops. The section from Kalk Bay to Fish Hoek is about 1 hour. Allow extra time for photography and wildlife spotting.
The path is generally safe during daylight hours, but it's advisable to walk in a group and avoid the path after dark. Petty crime can occur, so keep valuables out of sight and stay aware of your surroundings.
Yes, the Metrorail train connects Kalk Bay and Simon's Town, with stations at both ends and at Fish Hoek and Glencairn. Trains run hourly, but check schedules in advance, especially on weekends.
