Discover the Rich History at the South African Naval Museum
Explore the rich maritime heritage at the South African Naval Museum in Simon's Town, a captivating tourist attraction near Cape Town.
The South African Naval Museum in Simon's Town is a captivating destination for maritime enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Explore the fascinating exhibits showcasing the country's naval heritage, including a variety of artifacts, models, and historical displays that bring to life the stories of sailors and their ships. With its stunning coastal setting, this museum offers a unique glimpse into South Africa's maritime past, making it a must-visit for tourists exploring the Cape Town area.
A brief summary to South African Naval Museum
- St George's St, Cape Town, Simon's Town, 7995, ZA
- +27217874686
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and more personalized attention from staff.
- Check the museum's website for special exhibitions or events that may enhance your visit.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Boulders Beach to see the famous African penguins.
- Plan to allocate at least two hours to fully enjoy all the exhibits and displays.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're traveling by car, navigate to Simon's Town. From Cape Town, take the M3 highway towards the south, following signs for Muizenberg and then Simon's Town. Once you reach Simon's Town, follow St George's Street until you see the South African Naval Museum on your left. There is on-street parking available, but be aware that parking may incur a fee. Ensure you check local parking regulations.
-
Public Transportation (Train)
To reach the South African Naval Museum using public transportation, take the train from Cape Town Station to Simon's Town. The train ride offers beautiful views of the coastline and takes approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive at Simon's Town station, exit the station and walk along St George's Street. The museum is about a 10-minute walk from the station on your left. Train tickets can be purchased at the station, and pricing is generally affordable.
-
Public Transportation (Bus)
An alternative to the train is taking a bus from Cape Town to Simon's Town. Look for a bus service that travels along the False Bay Coast. Once you reach Simon's Town, disembark at the nearest stop to St George's Street. The museum is a short walk from there. Ensure to check the bus schedule as services may vary, and ticket prices are typically reasonable.
Discover more about South African Naval Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Grave of Able Seaman Just Nuisance
0.7 km
Discover the unique tale of Just Nuisance, the dog who became a naval hero at this touching grave site in Cape Peninsula, Cape Town.
Muizenberg Catwalk
9.0 km
Experience the enchanting Muizenberg Catwalk at False Bay, a historical landmark offering stunning coastal views and a vibrant local culture.
Rhodes Cottage Museum and Tea Room
9.2 km
Explore history at Rhodes Cottage Museum and Tea Room, a charming destination in Muizenberg offering insight into Cecil Rhodes' legacy and delectable scones.
Battle of Muizenberg (1795)
9.5 km
Explore the rich history of the Battle of Muizenberg, a key site in South Africa's colonial past, surrounded by stunning coastal beauty.
Het Posthuys
9.8 km
Discover the historical charm of Het Posthuys in Muizenberg, a captivating landmark that reveals Cape Town's rich heritage and stunning coastal views.
Slangkop Lighthouse
11.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at Slangkop Lighthouse in Kommetjie, a must-see attraction for Cape Town visitors.
Silvermine Nature Reserve
11.9 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Silvermine Nature Reserve in Cape Town, a true gem of Table Mountain National Park.
Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve
12.7 km
Discover Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve, a serene natural haven in Cape Town, perfect for wildlife watching and peaceful escapes amidst stunning landscapes.
Peninsula Tourism Bureau - Cape Point
13.6 km
Explore Cape Point’s breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and rich history at the Peninsula Tourism Bureau, your gateway to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Vasco da Gama Cross
13.9 km
Discover the historic Vasco da Gama Cross in Cape Point, where maritime history meets breathtaking natural beauty, creating a memorable experience for all visitors.
Elephant's Eye Cave
15.0 km
Explore Elephant's Eye Cave in Cape Town, a breathtaking hiking area with stunning views and unique geological formations.
Rondevlei Nature Reserve
15.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Rondevlei Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers in Cape Town.
خليج الهوت بي
16.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history of Hout Bay, a captivating coastal gem near Cape Town.
East Fort (upper) | the Cook House
16.2 km
Explore the historical significance and stunning landscapes of East Fort, a captivating landmark within Table Mountain National Park.
Foresters Cottage (in ruins, built circa 1920)
16.3 km
Uncover the historical charm of Foresters Cottage, a 1920s ruin nestled in Hout Bay, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Cape Town's past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Simon's Town Museum
0.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of Simon's Town at the local museum, featuring exhibits on naval heritage and cultural treasures.
African Shark Eco-Charters- Shark Cage Diving
0.4 km
Embark on a thrilling shark cage diving adventure in Cape Town's stunning waters with African Shark Eco-Charters, where unforgettable marine encounters await.
Simon's Town Pier
0.4 km
Experience the beauty of False Bay at Simon's Town Pier, where marine life meets local culture in a picturesque setting.
Apex Shark Expeditions - Great White Shark Cage Diving Cape Town
0.4 km
Explore the thrill of cage diving with Great White Sharks in Cape Town's stunning waters, combining adventure with marine conservation.
Simonstown Ghost Walk.
0.5 km
Explore the spine-chilling tales of Simonstown's past with the Ghost Walk, where history and the supernatural intertwine for an unforgettable night.
Able Seaman Just Nuisance
0.5 km
Explore Simon's Town's iconic Able Seaman Just Nuisance, a touching tribute to the only dog enlisted in the Royal Navy, and immerse yourself in local maritime history.
Long Beach Public Beach
0.5 km
Experience the beauty of Long Beach Public Beach in Simon's Town, a serene gem of Cape Town known for its soft sands and stunning sunsets.
Jubilee Square & Jetty
0.5 km
Discover the historical charm and scenic beauty of Jubilee Square & Jetty in Simon's Town, a must-visit destination on your Cape Town adventure.
St George's Street
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant history and culture of St George's Street in Simon's Town, a beautiful coastal gem near Cape Town.
Kayak Adventures Simons Town
0.5 km
Experience the beauty of Simon's Town with thrilling kayak adventures amidst stunning coastal landscapes and diverse marine wildlife.
Cape RADD (Research And Diver Development)
0.6 km
Explore the underwater wonders of Cape Town at Cape RADD, where adventure meets marine conservation and education.
The Sow's Ear
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage clothing, handcrafted furniture, and men's apparel at The Sow's Ear in Simon's Town, a must-visit destination for tourists.
Amlay House
0.7 km
Explore the maritime history and colonial charm of Amlay House, a captivating museum in Simon's Town, Cape Town.
The Heritage Museum
0.7 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Simon's Town at The Heritage Museum, a captivating journey through time in a stunning coastal setting.
Admiral's Waterfall
0.7 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Admiral's Waterfall in Cape Town, a nature lover's paradise with stunning views and serene surroundings.
Essential places to dine
Fran's Place
0.5 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Fran's Place in Simon's Town - where flavor meets stunning coastal views.
Deep South Eatery
3.5 km
Experience authentic South African cuisine at Deep South Eatery in Glencairn - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Camel Rock Restaurant
4.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite South African cuisine at Camel Rock Restaurant in Scarborough, Cape Town.
Black Marlin Restaurant
5.8 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Black Marlin Restaurant with stunning ocean views in Millers Point, Simon's Town.
The Hatchery
7.0 km
Discover The Hatchery in Cape Town's stunning Cape Peninsula - where Western cuisine meets breathtaking views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Harbour House Kalk Bay
7.2 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning ocean views at Harbour House Kalk Bay - a culinary gem on South Africa's coast.
Cape to Cuba
7.4 km
Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Cape to Cuba in Kalk Bay - where flavor meets fun by the sea.
Blue Water Cafe
9.0 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Blue Water Cafe in Cape Town's scenic Imhoff Farm, where delicious meals meet beautiful surroundings.
Cape Point Vineyards Restaurant
11.5 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and exquisite cuisine at Cape Point Vineyards Restaurant - a true gem in Cape Town's culinary scene.
The Foodbarn Café & Tapas
11.5 km
Experience exceptional French and seafood cuisine at The Foodbarn Café & Tapas in Noordhoek Farm Village, where family-friendly dining meets culinary excellence.
Beyond Restaurant
16.7 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Beyond Restaurant in Constantia - where culinary artistry meets stunning vineyard views.
The Indian Oven
17.4 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine at The Indian Oven in Hout Bay, where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and tradition.
Casareccio Cucina Italiana
17.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Casareccio Cucina Italiana in Hout Bay - where every dish tells a story.
Delish Restaurant
17.4 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and lunches at Delish Restaurant in Hout Bay while enjoying stunning coastal views.
The Lookout Hout Bay
17.5 km
Experience unforgettable dining with stunning ocean views at The Lookout Hout Bay - where fresh flavors meet breathtaking scenery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Maximalist
0.3 km
Explore Maximalist in Simon's Town for a unique collection of antiques and vintage clothing, perfect for history buffs and style enthusiasts alike.
Zondereinde Art Shop
0.3 km
Explore Zondereinde Art Shop in Simon's Town for exquisite handcrafted leather goods that capture the essence of South African artistry.
Enkosi Afrika
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Africa at Enkosi Afrika, Simon's Town's premier destination for unique gifts and handcrafted leather goods.
Pure Yin Studio
0.5 km
Explore Pure Yin Studio in Simon's Town, a boutique offering unique local crafts and a tranquil shopping experience in the heart of Cape Town.
Die Hangkas
0.5 km
Discover unique South African fashion at Die Hangkas, a charming clothing store in the heart of Simon's Town, Cape Town.
The Little Shop
0.5 km
Explore The Little Shop in Simon's Town for unique clothing and accessories reflecting South African culture and style.
Pearl Alley
0.5 km
Explore Pearl Alley in Simon's Town for exquisite handcrafted jewelry that captures the essence of Cape Town's unique beauty.
Luvellynne A Koopman's spot
0.5 km
Experience the allure of geological treasures at Luvellynne A Koopman's Spot, a unique rock shop and lodging destination in Cape Town's scenic Simons Kloof.
Anemone
0.5 km
Discover unique, beautiful clothing at Anemone in Simon's Town, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant South African fashion.
African Art & Gemstones
0.5 km
Explore authentic African crafts and exquisite gemstones in Simon's Town, a charming destination for unique gifts and cultural treasures.
The Silk Purse
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Silk Purse in Simon's Town, a charming gift shop celebrating South African artistry.
Blue Cherry Thrift
0.6 km
Explore Blue Cherry Thrift in Simon's Town for unique vintage clothing and an unforgettable shopping experience along Cape Town's stunning coastline.
Hunter & Collector
0.6 km
Explore Hunter & Collector, an antique store in Simon's Town offering a captivating collection of vintage treasures and historical artifacts.
The Aloe Shop
1.8 km
Discover natural beauty at The Aloe Shop in Simon's Town, where aloe vera meets skincare for a rejuvenating experience.
The Crazy Store Simons Town
2.3 km
Explore The Crazy Store in Simons Town for the best selection of unique gifts, toys, and local crafts at affordable prices.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
McNally's Beach Bar
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of McNally's Beach Bar, where refreshing drinks and stunning coastal views create the perfect escape in Cape Town.
The Striped Horse - Bar, Grill & Music
10.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and delicious grill cuisine at The Striped Horse, Muizenberg's top bar and music venue.
Fisherman Cottage
16.9 km
Discover the charm of Fisherman Cottage, a cozy bar in Hout Bay Harbour, Cape Town, offering delightful drinks and stunning ocean views.
Chapman's Peak Wine & Spirits
17.3 km
Discover the essence of South Africa at Chapman's Peak Wine & Spirits, where local wines and premium cigars meet stunning ocean views.
O'kennedy's Pub & Grill
17.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes at O'Kennedy's Pub & Grill, a local favorite in Diep River, Cape Town.
The Beach Bar
17.3 km
Discover the coastal charm of The Beach Bar in Cape Town, where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Workshop Pub
17.5 km
Experience the essence of South African culture at The Workshop Pub in Hout Bay, where good food, drinks, and friendly faces await.
Woodcutters Arms
17.7 km
Discover the flavors of South Africa at Woodcutters Arms in Hout Bay, where local cuisine meets rustic charm for an unforgettable dining experience.
Shirley's
18.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Shirley's, a beloved bar in Hout Bay, Cape Town, perfect for enjoying local drinks and nightlife.
Cheroots
18.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cheroots, a cozy bar in Hout Bay offering delightful drinks and stunning views.
The Chilli Bar
18.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at The Chilli Bar, a must-visit spot in Cape Town for food and drink enthusiasts.
The Bay @ False Bay Rugby Club
19.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of dining and sports at The Bay @ False Bay Rugby Club, a family-friendly bar and grill in the heart of Constantia, Cape Town.
Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia
19.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia, where gourmet dishes meet breathtaking vineyard views in Cape Town's premier dining destination.
Incognito
20.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Incognito, a cocktail bar in Constantia offering exquisite tapas, live music, and unforgettable experiences.
La Parada Constantia Nek
20.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Cape Town at La Parada Constantia Nek, a premier tapas restaurant nestled in the heart of Hout Bay.
