
The name “Mariner” pays homage to Simon’s Town’s rich maritime history. The town itself was named after Simon van der Stel, the Dutch governor of the Cape Colony from 1677 to 1699, who recognized the bay east of Cape Town as a safe winter harbor.
Today, Simon’s Town is home to the South African Navy and the False Bay Yacht Club, conveniently located next to the Simon’s Town Waterfront Centre. The center offers a variety of activities, including boat charters, sea kayaking, deep-sea fishing, shark diving, and whale watching, all professionally managed.
From the outset, the owners of Mariner Guesthouse were determined to create a centrally located retreat within walking distance of restaurants and beaches, while still offering breathtaking views of False Bay. In 2009, they demolished an old house on the mountainside to build the architecturally designed Mariner Guesthouse, which was constructed with eco-friendly principles and achieved a 4-Star grading.
The 7-bedroom guesthouse now offers luxury accommodation for both leisure and business travelers. Visitors to Simon’s Town often seek nature and adventure activities while being just a short drive from Cape Town’s city center.
The owners take great pride in Mariner Guesthouse’s success, from its involvement in social responsibility projects to its focus on staff development. The guesthouse has received numerous accolades, including awards like Top Accommodation in the South Peninsula from Travel Ground, and a Certificate of Excellence and Winner status on Trip Advisor—thanks to the satisfaction of its guests.
“We believe that our direct involvement in day-to-day operations, along with our passionate and skilled staff, makes all the difference in ensuring our guests have an unforgettable experience every time,” says Liesel Coetzer.
Next time you visit the Cape Peninsula, be sure to book your stay at Mariner Guesthouse and enjoy the best that beautiful Simon’s Town has to offer.

