Two kilometres from the station towards Cape Point lies Boulders , the most popular local beach, which offers a number of places to stay. The area takes its name from the huge rounded rocks that create a cluster of little coves with sandy beaches and clear sea pools. However, the main reason people come to Boulders is for the African penguins (formerly known as jackass penguins), in the Boulders section of the Cape Peninsula National Park (open 24hr; R10 entry fee 8am-5pm), a fenced reserve on Boulders Beach. Passing sailors used to prey on the quirky birds and their eggs, and more recently they have fallen victim to vandals, and some locals who consider them pests; they're now protected by a guard. African penguins usually live on islands off the westside of the South African coast, the Boulders birds forming one of only two mainland colonies in the world. This is also the only place where the endangered species are actually increasing in numbers, and provides a rare opportunity to get a close look at them. To get there, take a Rikki's taxi from Simon's Town station.