I had never been to Boulders Beach before this point in time, I am embarrassed to say. The reason for my shame is that it is a truly beautiful location that any avid adventurer can not pass on.

Besides from the obviously stunning coastline, there is also another adventure to be had in this little patch of land called Simons Town. Namely, the Penguin walkway.

Upon entering the wooden stretch, I could immediately hear what sounding like the calls of a donkey! I soon realized that this noise was in fact resonating from the penguins themselves. These birds were originally named 'Jackass Penguins', but this was changed to the African Penguin, due to the unflattering nature of the name.

Everyone has seen a penguin on television, on cartoons, movies, even stop frame clay animation. I have even helped feed them after an oil slick on the Western Coast, a few years back. However, until you spend time with them, you will never have had the real experience.

I was surprised to find this species, amongst the plant life, running alongside the walkway. I have seen them in the ocean and on the beach, but never amongst the bush! It was then that I realize why they were seemingly out of their habitat. Incubation duties. I spotted several Penguins, protectively warming their eggs, and came to the conclusion that it was the time of year that these comical animals begin their life cycle.

After a relaxing stroll, up and down the walkway, taking in the sea air, the natural beauty of our country, and of course that unbeatable African sun, I made my way to a boulder, overlooking the ocean. It was there that I got to spend a special moment with one of these animals.

As I sat and starred out into the vast blue waters, a penguin burst out of a wave, onto a rock. This was no ordinary rock mind you. It was a rock with a 70 degree gradient. I had the opportunity to view this determined little creature, make its way up this cliff like rock, one small jump at a time. I noticed little claws on the end of its webbed feet, and realized that I had learned something new.

After our goodbyes, I left Pingi (His adopted name), on the boulders, and made my way back to Boulders Beach Resort, where I was staying the night. I remember smiling to myself, and knowing that I would remember the moment for a long time to come.