Muizenberg to Simon's Town by Train: A Practical Guide to the Southern Line

The scenic commuter rail route along False Bay is slow, cheap and unforgettable — here is how to ride it without the guesswork.

The Route and the Rolling Stock

Metrorail's Southern Line runs from Cape Town station through the southern suburbs to Simon's Town, hugging the coast from Muizenberg onward. The Muizenberg to Simon's Town stretch is roughly 20 kilometres and takes about 35 to 45 minutes on a good day, though delays are common. Trains are basic commuter carriages — no air conditioning, no refreshments, no luggage racks. You will share the ride with locals going about their day. The fare is a few rand, among the cheapest scenic journeys you will find anywhere. Buy a ticket at the counter, not from anyone on the platform.

The line passes through St James, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Glencairn and Simon's Town. The most photogenic section is between St James and Kalk Bay, where the track runs right against the rocks and the surf. Sit on the left-hand side heading south for the best sea views. Away from peak commuting hours — mid-morning to early afternoon — carriages are quieter and you can spread out. Avoid after dark. The trains are not fast, but the ride itself is the attraction: False Bay on one side, the mountains on the other, and a string of village stations that feel like stepping back in time.

What to See at Each Stop

Muizenberg is the starting point for most visitors. The beach is famous for its colourful bathing boxes, and the gentle waves make it a good spot for beginner surfers. Surf schools line the beachfront and offer lessons; prices vary, so check boards on the day. The Muizenberg Pavilion has been restored and hosts a weekend market. From the station, it is a five-minute walk to the sand. Allow an hour or two here before boarding. Kalk Bay is the highlight for many: a working harbour with fishing boats, seals and a cluster of independent shops and restaurants along Main Road. The harbour is a two-minute walk from the station. Do not skip the walk along the harbour wall.

Fish Hoek has a long, calm beach popular with families and older swimmers; the station is right behind the sand. Simon's Town is the end of the line and the main draw: Boulders Beach, home to a colony of African penguins. The walk from Simon's Town station to Boulders takes about 25 minutes, or you can take a short taxi ride. Entry to the beach is paid and can be busy in summer (December–February), so go early. The town itself has a naval heritage and a cluster of cafes on St George's Street. Glencairn is a tiny station with a quiet beach and a wetland — worth a stop if you want to escape the crowds.

Practicalities and Timing

The Southern Line runs roughly hourly outside peak times, but the timetable is not always reliable. Check the day before and again on the morning. Weekdays are more frequent than weekends. The journey is not suitable for anyone in a hurry. Bring water, sunscreen and a hat — there is little shade on the platforms. The train is not wheelchair-friendly at most stations; steep stairs are common. If you are staying in Cape Town, the full ride from Cape Town station to Simon's Town takes about 75 minutes. Many visitors base themselves in Muizenberg or Fish Hoek for easier access. For hotel bookings, Muizenberg has a good range of guesthouses and self-catering flats within walking distance of the beach and station.

The best months for this trip are March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Summer (December–February) is hot and windy, and the trains can be packed. Winter (June–August) brings rain and rougher seas, but the penguins are still there. Do not rely on the train for a tight connection; build in buffer time. If you are nervous about taking the train, consider the alternative: a hired car or rideshare along the M4, which offers similar views. But the train has a charm that the road cannot match, and it is a fraction of the cost. Book your accommodation near the line to make the most of it.

Where to Stay and What to Skip

I would book a hotel in Muizenberg if you want easy access to the train and the beach, or in Simon's Town if the penguins are your priority. Muizenberg has more budget and mid-range options; Simon's Town is quieter in the evenings. Fish Hoek is a good middle ground, with a calm beach and a station. For a splurge, consider the boutique guesthouses in Kalk Bay, though they are limited. Prices are generally lower outside December and January. Avoid staying right next to the railway line if you are a light sleeper — trains start early. Also skip the train on Sundays if you are short on time, as services are sparse.

As for the train itself, skip it if you are travelling with heavy luggage or a tight schedule. Otherwise, it is a memorable way to see the coast. Do not skip the walk from Simon's Town station to Boulders via the coastal path — it is lovely. And do not bother with the train if you are prone to motion sickness; the ride is jerky. Otherwise, buy a ticket, find a window seat, and enjoy one of the world's great suburban rail journeys.

Questions, answered

How long does the train take from Muizenberg to Simon's Town?

The journey takes about 35 to 45 minutes, but delays are common. Check the timetable on the day and allow extra time, especially if you have a connection or a timed entry at Boulders Beach.

Is the train safe for tourists?

It is a basic commuter service. Travel in daylight hours, keep valuables out of sight, and avoid empty carriages. Many visitors use it without incident, but exercise the same caution you would in any city.

Where can I stay near the Southern Line?

Muizenberg and Fish Hoek have the widest range of guesthouses and self-catering options within walking distance of the stations. Simon's Town is quieter but convenient for Boulders Beach. Book ahead in summer.

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