Simon’s Town

Making a list of the cutest anything is impossible without including Simon's Town. As a matter of fact, Simon van der Stel, an early governor of the Cape Colony in the 1600s, is the namesake of this tiny town, which is deep in history. Simon's Town has served as a naval station and harbor for more than 200 years, first for the Royal Navy and now for the South African Navy.

Simon's Town is like something out of a storybook when you walk through it. Historic structures from the 1800s have been refurbished, painted a vibrant shade of pink or blue, and are now used as lodging, cafés, and a number of antique businesses. Pick through the memorabilia that has accumulated years of dust and memories; perhaps you'll uncover one or two valuable records. Alternatively, stop for lunch at a bayside restaurant. (Don't forget to keep an eye out for the sax player who frequently plays music for pedestrians.)

Location: Western Cape