Betty’s Bay is for the birds—penguins that is. You won’t find sunbathers along this curve of beach at Stony Point on the South African coast near Cape Town. Instead, you’ll see thousands of Jackass Penguins (also called African Penguins) swimming among the rocks and relics of the old whaling site.

Stroll along the wooden boardwalk that stretches on one side of the cove to see the web-footed birds huddled in groups on the sand. Undisturbed by the arrival of human visitors, they’ll come close, cocking their heads in curiosity, observing you as you observe them. After snapping their photo, you’ll swear that the friendly appearing birds were posing just for you.

Watch the penguins as they waddle out to sea, becoming sleek swimmers once in the water. After hearing the braying calls, you’ll understand why they’re called Jackass Penguins.

You’ll find Betty’s Bay on the Clarence Drive Route, a scenic coastal drive between Hermanus and Cape Town. The boardwalk provides easy walking for children, who will delight at the penguin’s funny antics. The area is also known as prime land-based whale watching territory.

Review by Donna L. Hull, My Itchy Travel Feet
Photo courtesy Donna L. Hull