55+ Things to do in Cape Town and surrounds

As a mom, I am always looking for things to do. Things to do in every season, things to do in the holidays, where to stay, free things to do for kids when it’s way past payday, things to do when it rains and fun things to do in nature or even indoors. It can be so tiring going through article and article or blog after blog, so we have decided to put together a comprehensive list of 55+ Things to do With Kids in Cape Town and the surrounds. We’ve even gone one step further for you and mapped it out so that you can find what you’re looking for by looking at our index or by just knowing what will make your little one’s adventure epic. At Things to do With Kids, we not only focus on things to do for kids in Cape Town but also on things to do together, that both parents and kids will find fun. So here it is… enjoy finding what you’ve been looking for.

Read our Summer guide if you are looking for a recent post on how to spend your summer holidays in Cape Town with kids.

Here is how I categorised this guide on family and kids activities in Cape Town and surrounds:

• Take them to a child-friendly wine farm and relax
• Take the kids to go fishing at one of Cape Town’s most amazing fishing spots
• Visit a child-friendly restaurant in and around Cape Town
• Visit one of Cape Town's best picnic spots. Find the best picnic spot to suit you, be it self-catering, prepared or fancy!
• Family-friendly camping Spots and resorts in Cape Town that will be the perfect weekend getaways
• Child-friendly accommodation and Family-friendly resorts in the Western Cape to suit everyone
• Explore nature and play at an outdoor play park or party venue
• Explore these indoor kids party and play venues for those rainy days
• Awesome mountain-bike parks and trails in Cape Town and beyond that could suit both families with kids and families with dogs
• Fun Cape Town play venues and activities under R100

Take them to a child -friendly wine farm and relax

Delheim Winery, Stellenbosch (Cape Winelands)

What: There is a large grassy area where children can play and there is a nice picnic area. The garden restaurant is child-friendly with a kiddies menu, and highchair available. The Riverside picnic area is the place you want to be when Spring's warmer weather rolls in, as an added bonus there is a kiddies picnic basket packed with goodies specially selected for little ones. Delheim offers no specific play area for kids but they can enjoy the wide-open space and lush lawn with their parents, next to the river. Their wine tastings and pairings round off this wine farm experience perfectly.

Where: Knorhoek Road, Stellenbosch

Why: Restaurant, picnics, wine tasting, outdoor play and the best it is child-friendly

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Delheim Winery Stellenbosch

Perdeberg Winery, Paarl (Cape Winelands)

What: Perdeberg Winery provides a relaxing environment for you to indulge in the delicious delicacies that Eat @ Perdeberg has to offer. Enjoy the tranquil setting of our gardens while the kids keep themselves busy in the safe play park area. Seating inside the air-conditioned restaurant is also available, where booking is essential.

Braai Picnic Baskets are also available and are extremely popular. They also offer a very exciting wine pairing and for the kids an ever popular milkshake and marshmallow pairing.

Where: Ryguns Farm, Windmeul, Paarl

Why: Wine tasting for adults, pairings for the kids, picnics, braais, restaurant, play area and family-friendly

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Perdeberg Winery Paarl

Cape Point Vineyards, Noordhoek (South Peninsula)

What: Cape Point Vineyards is an award-winning winery located in Noordhoek. It is one of my favourite places to visit in Cape Town with kids, though it may be more parent-friendly than child-friendly. It is not every day that you get to enjoy a peaceful escape to a vineyard which also offers its visitors unique views of a glorious sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Your kids will love the mountains, vineyards and fynbos whilst enjoying a family-friendly picnic. We suggest taking along some board games, a picnic blanket, and a ball to keep your kids entertained.

Where: Silvermine Rd, Noordhoek, Cape Town

Why: Peaceful, refreshing, child-friendly, picnic spot, place to play boardgames in nature

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Cape Point Vineyards Noordhoek

Buitenverwachting, Constantia (Southern Suburbs)

What: This beautiful farm on the east-facing slopes of the magnificent Constantiaberg originally formed part of the Constantia Estate. Buitenverwachting offers child-friendly picnics which are served in traditional picnic baskets under the majestic oak trees. Tables and chairs are provided with blankets for children.

Where: 37 Klein Constantia Rd, Nova Constantia, Cape Town

Why: Wine Tastings, Picnics, Family-Friendly, Coffee shop, Restaurant, Party Venue

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Buitenverwachting Constantia

Simonsig Wine Estate, Stellenbosch (Cape Winelands)

What: Relax and unwind under our trees in the beauty of the Cape Winelands. There is a beautiful formal restaurant inside which has a garden area outside. There is a playground available there to keep the little ones entertained and they provide a special kiddies’ menu. Wine tastings available also indoors and outdoors allowing the kids to run free while you do tastings. And picnics are also available on request.

Where: Kromme Rhee Rd, Stellenbosch, Cape Town, 7605

Why: Child-friendly, play areas for kids, wine tastings, picnics, champagne, venue

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: https://www.simonsig.co.za/

Audacia Wine Estate, Stellenbosch (Cape Winelands)

What: Not only do they sell great wines, but almost everybody knows about the Root44 Market. This is definitely a child-friendly destination as there is plenty for the kids to do. Their indoor and outdoor play areas paired with good food makes them a weekend favourite.

Where: R44, Stellenbosch

Why: Food trucks, restaurant, market, child-friendly, live music, play areas for kids

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Audacia Wine Estate

Visit more child-friendly wine farms and have a look at Top 6 child-friendly wine farms

Take them fishing to one of Cape Town’s most amazing fishing spots

Le Bonheur, between Franshoek and Paarl (Cape Winelands)

What: Le Bonheur is a crocodile farm so there are a number of fun activities for kids available such as a crocodile cage dive and crocodile pond tours. They have a well-stocked dam with Bass and Tilapia and their visitor centre offers catch and release fishing during normal business hours. They have a pizzeria, picnic baskets and braai facilities for everybody to enjoy. Le Bonheur is also a great place to host your child’s birthday party with large grounds and an indoor venue.

Where: Babylonstoren Road, R45, Simondium, Between Franshoek and Paarl

Why: Fun activities for the kids, picnics, catch and release fishing, party venue, indoor play area, braai facilities, pizza making and child-friendly restaurant, family-friendly accommodation, bike park and predator tours

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Le Bonheur crocodile farm and party venue

Hillcrest Quarry, Durbanville (Northern Suburbs)

What: Hillcrest Quarry just outside Durbanville offers fishing and a great place to picnic. There is a fee for picnicking and fishing. They have a variety of fish available such as bass, carp, barbel, trout, and kurper. The quarry also hosts weddings, functions, events, concerts and is one of the venues for the Galileo Open Air Cinema.

Where: Tygerberg Valley Road, Durbanville

Why: Fishing, picnicking, family friendly outdoor play, events and function venue

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: http://www.thequarry.co.za/index.php/picnic-fishing

Stanford Hills Estate, Stanford (Overberg)

What: They have accommodation at their Stanford Hills Cottages where you can enjoy your stay and a restaurant called The Tasting Room, which is a great breakfast and lunch venue. There is a trampoline, sandpit, a jungle gym and some small boats which you and the kids can paddle around with in the dam. In summary, this is a place for the whole family to enjoy and have a wonderful time. Located in the vicinity are dams where you can swim, which also provide child-friendly catch and release fishing. Other fun activities kids will love include: exploring hiking trails, wine tasting and horse riding for the more adventurous.

Where: Weltevreden Farm, Stanford, Overberg

Why: Wine tasting, fishing, horse riding, hiking, family -friendly restaurant, water paddling, swimming, outdoor play area, family friendly fun

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: http://www.stanfordhills.co.za/

La Ferme, Franschhoek (Cape Winelands)

What: This popular accommodation and restaurant venue is somewhat of an institution in Franschhoek and is a wonderful getaway spot (with fishing opportunities) for the whole family. The venue has 4 x well-stocked (rainbow trout, carp and bass) fishing dams which form a magical and relaxing backdrop for braai's, picnics, fly-fishing and simply relaxing as a family alongside the water.

Where: La Ferme, Franschhoek, Western Cape

Why: Biking, fishing, hiking, picnicking, child-friendly restaurant and accommodation, bird watching and absolute peace, swimming

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: http://www.laferme.co.za/

Black Eagle Lodge, Caledon, (Overberg)

What: This soul-reviving getaway farm offers is situated a mere 90min drive from Cape Town and offers self-catering mountain lodges, spaced nearly a kilometre apart. This working farm gives families the opportunity to reconnect away from the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives as they explore all the fun kids' activities and the interesting animal and birdlife the farm has to offer. There are 3 x dams stocked with rainbow trout. Bring your own swimming towels, binoculars, fishing equipment, bicycles, food and drink.

Where: Kempsrivier Farm, Caledon, Overberg

Why: Catch and release fishing, child-friendly accommodation, swimming, restaurants, bird watching and family-friendly activities

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: http://www.blackeaglelodge.co.za/

The Oaks Estate, Greyton (Overberg)

What: This family getaway farm has 3 x large dams stocked with black bass and guests are allowed to swim as well as fish in these dams on a catch and release basis. Swimming is also welcomed in the river and the pool below the waterfall (which is simply so invigorating). Home to a variety of bird species, including blue cranes, fish eagles and secretary birds, this farm is also a birder's paradise.

Where: R406, Riversonderend Road, Greyton (10km outside Greyton), Overberg

Why: Family-friendly accommodation, catch and release fishing, swimming, bird watching, restaurant and a relaxing child-friendly getaway.

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: The Oaks Estate Greyton

Read our blog on Child-friendly Catch and Release Fishing Spots in Cape Town Child-friendly catch and release fishing spots in Cape Town

Child-friendly restaurants in and around Cape Town

Willowbridge Restaurants, Durbanville (Northern Suburbs)

What: Willowbridge is a family-friendly Lifestyle Centre. Willowbridge has all the usual anchor stores, however, they also offer unique and high-end stores for the shopper who enjoys something a bit different to the usual malls. Willowbridge offers a variety of restaurants and cafes that all offer great food in a relaxed shopping environment. You can choose the Primi Piatti, the Woolworths Restaurant to the more recent RocoMamas. There are small play areas for kids with jungle gyms the kids can play on scattered throughout the Willowbridge Mall. There is also an outside unshaded play area.

Where: Tygervalley, Belville, Northern Suburbs

Why: Child-friendly restaurants, indoor play areas, outdoor play areas for kids, jungle gyms, good food and lots of shopping

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Willowbridge shopping centre

Eat@Perdeberg Restaurant, Paarl (Cape Winelands)

What: Enjoy the peaceful and beautiful gardens while the kids play in the safe play park area. Braai picnic baskets are also available and extremely popular. Bookings for the picnics are essential and you may have to pay in a deposit. They also offer some exciting kiddies pairings, while you enjoy your wine tasting. Also, keep an eye out for the annual festivals hosted by the Perdeberg Winery.

Where: Ryguns Farm, Windmeul, Paarl

Why: Braai picnic baskets, Kids marshmallow and milkshake pairings, wine tasting, safe outdoor play area.

Who: Preschooler 3-5, Scholar 6-9, Tween 10-12, Teen 13-17.

Web: Eat@Perdeberg Restaurant

Rhodes Memorial tea garden and restaurant, Devils Peak (Southern Suburbs)

What: Situated on the Northern slope of Table Mountain, this historic and child-friendly Restaurant and tea garden offers beautiful views and delicious food. They offer special rates for children under 10 years old and has recently been renovated to include a playground with swings, slides, a jungle gym, and sandpit.

Facilities: jungle gym, kids menu, outdoor play area (Not shaded)

Where: Rhodes Memorial, Rhodes Avenue, Devils Peak

Why: Jungle gym, kids menu, outdoor play area (Not shaded)

Who: Preschooler 3-5, Scholar 6-9, Tween 10-12, Teen 13-17

Web: www.rhodesmemorial.co.za

Company’s Garden restaurant, CBD (City Bowl)

What: Found in the heart of Cape Town, in the historic Company’s Garden is a restaurant that is made for families. They serve a selection of light meals and tea time treats with a South African flair. There is plenty for the kids to do at this child-friendly restaurant; a jungle gym, outdoor chess set, nest chairs and wooden animals to play on. This is one is on the list for family-friendly destinations.

Where: 15 Queen Victoria Street, CBD

Why: High chairs, jungle gym, open space to play in, kids menu, outdoor play area (not shaded)

Who: Preschooler 3-5, Scholar 6-9, Tween 10-12, Teen 13-17

Web: www.thecompanysgarden.com

Dunes Beach restautant and bar, Hout Bay (Atlantic Seaboard)

What: Whether it is for a scrumptious breakfast after an early morning stroll on the beach, a delicious lunch whilst savouring the wonderful uninterrupted views or a sunset dinner marvelling the beauty of the evening skies, Dunes is the place to go.

Swings, a jungle gym, a beautiful sea and mountain view, what more could you ask for. Oh yes, and great food of course.

Where: 1 Beach Crescent, Scott Estate, Hout Bay

Why: High chairs, ball pond or soft play area, jungle gym, kids menu, outdoor play, party venue, beach restaurant

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: www.dunesrestaurant.co.za

Noordhoek Farm Village, Noordehoek (South Peninsula)

What: A weekly market that provides coffee, freshly baked bread, regular live music acts and loads more on offer. The kids can enjoy a spacious and safe outdoor playground.

Where: Corner of Village Lane &, Noordhoek Main Rd, Noordhoek

Why: Jungle gym, outdoor play area (not shaded), market treats, coffee, freshly baked bread and child-friendly

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Noordhoek farm village

Driftwood Cafe, Table View (West Coast)

What: This is a family-style restaurant in Table View, providing a kiddies menu and an outdoor play area. This restaurant is also Dog friendly. Driftwood is a landmark in the Blaauwberg/ Tableview area. Recently purchased by a family, whose goal is to restore Driftwood Cafe to its former family-friendly and pet-friendly atmosphere that we all know so well.

Where: Cnr Hampstead Close &, Parklands Main Rd, Parklands

Why: High chairs, jungle gym, kids menu, outdoor play area, dog friendly and good family friendly food

Who: Age Group: Preschooler 3-5, Scholar 6-9, Tween 10-12, Teen 13-17

Web: Driftwood Cafe

Blasters, Brackenfell (Northern Suburbs)

What: A child-friendly restaurant found at the Cape Gate Décor Centre. They offer the biggest, safest and supervised indoor play area in South Africa. Parents can go out for a proper meal with their children and friends, really relax and enjoy themselves, knowing the children are happy, busy, supervised and safe.

Where: Shop A1, Cape Gate Decor Centre, Nitida Ave, Brackenfell

Why: Relaxed environment, coffee for mom, restaurant, indoor play area, child-minders

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Blasters indoor play area

Visit the top 50 child-friendly restaurants in Cape Town and the surrounds

Visit one of Cape Town's best picnic spots. Find the best picnic spot to suit you, be it self-catering, prepared or fancy!

• Delheim Winery, Stellenbosch (Cape Winelands)
• Le Bonheur Crocodile Farm - Paarl, Cape Winelans
• Hillcrest Quarry – Durbanville (Northern Suburbs)
• La Ferme – Franschhoek, (Cape Winelands)
• Cape Point Vineyards – Noordehoek (Cape Peninsula)
• Buitenverwachting – Constantia (Southern Suburbs)
• Eat @ Perdeberg Restaurant, Paarl (Cape Winelands)

All of these vineyards and child-friendly picnic spots have been discussed in detail in the sections above. Other child-friendly activities include swimming, exploring hiking trails, wine tastings, pairings, and horse riding for the more adventurous. Most of these venues also offer party venues and event venues. Most of them also offer restaurants and cafes as well as child-friendly menus and play areas for kids.

Please visit the respective picnic venues websites to view their costing and picnic areas and read our blog on top family friendly picnic spots near Cape Town.

Family-friendly camping spots and resorts in Cape Town that will be the perfect weekend getaways

Kam’Bati, Breede River (Swellendam)

What: Kam'Bati Swellendam offers families a variety of family-friendly entertainment. Even if you are not the rugged-camping-type you can go glamping in their Africamps luxury tents. They offer putt-putt, water activities, a bar for the adults and a shop at the resort amongst other fun activities for kids. Kam'Bati is a 2-hour drive from Cape Town - the ideal weekend getaway for families looking for fun.

Where: Junileeskraal, Swellendam

Why: Child-friendly camping, Glamping, Family friendly activities, Swimming, Conference Venue, self-catering accommodation and Camping

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Kam'Bati river resort

ATKV resorts, various areas in and around the Western Cape

What: These highly recommended resorts can be found all over South Africa. Most of the resorts offer a host of activities children enjoy from heated pools to indoor pools, mini-golf, table-tennis, trampolines and loads more fun and exciting things to do with kids. The camping sites are first-class and you will have to return again and again to experience all they have to offer. Have a look at the listed camping resorts below. Facilities at most of the camping sites include power points, water supply, ablution facilities and even DSTV-points.

Where:

ATKV-Hartenbos, Garden Route, Western Cape

Plenty of space is available at this caravan camping resort. Explore the Garden Route with family and friends. They also provide beach houses, self-catering apartments, cottages and rondavels. You access to child-friendly activities such as mini-golf, they also have swimming pools, trampolines and much more.

Web:ATKV Hartenbos

ATKV Goudini Spa, Rawsonville, Western Province

Enjoy the warm baths at Goudini and stay at the family-friendly caravan and camping accommodation at the resort. Here you also have access to rondavels, apartments and other accommodation options. There is plenty to keep the entire family busy from an arcade from to tennis, trampolines and of course the warm baths.

Web: ATKV Goudini Spa

There are more ATKV Resorts including:

ATKV-Natalia Strandoord – Natal

ATKV-Drakensville – Durban

ATKV Klein-Kariba- 90 minutes from Johannesburg

ATKV-Buffelspoort- North West

ATKV – Eiland Spa - Limpopo

Why: Play areas, child-friendly accommodation, swimming, family-friendly restaurants, camping, horse riding, water sports, and great food

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Wolfkop Camping Village, Citrusdal (Cedarburg)

What: The tents are set out with a beautiful view of the river. You should bring your own braai grid, utensils, chairs, tables and electric lights. Each village has its own powerpoint. There are also communal ablution facilities available with hot showers and flush toilets, very important! Activities available are fishing, hiking, biking trails, golf course, canoeing and just exploring the surrounding area. The kids will enjoy it too.

Where: Keerboom Street, Citrusdal, Cedarburg

Why: Camping, glamping, family-friendly, golfing, hiking, trails, braaing and all-round family fun

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Wolfkop camping village

Imhoff Park, Kommetjie (South Peninsula)

What: From Imhoff park is a wonderful view of Chapman’s Peak and Hout Bay Harbour. There are 75 grassed stands available for caravans as well as tents.

All the stands have electricity and braai facilities. There are clean ablution blocks with showers and ironing boards available. There is also a games room, T.V. room, and a children’s playground. Two sea-facing brick chalets are also available if you don’t like the camping idea. There is swimming, hiking, fishing, horse riding and it is close to a shopping centre, restaurants, and wine routes. There is plenty to do and see to keep the whole family happy.

Where: 54 Wireless Rd, Kommetjie

Why: Restaurant, picnics, swimming, hiking, fishing, outdoor play and the best it is child and family-friendly

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Imhoff Park

Orange Kloof Tented Camp, Hout Bay (Atlantic Seaboard)

What: Falling asleep under a canopy of stars, listening to the Disa River and an owl hooting, waking to a bird chorus, it doesn’t get better than this. Orange Kloof tented camp in Hout Bay has always been a special piece of paradise surrounded by urban sprawl. This facility provides a rustic yet luxurious experience to camping and definitely a place to visit to get away from it all. The tents are permanent structures, with one four sleeper family tent and four two sleeper tents, all with single beds, mattresses, sheets and electrical lighting.

Where: Table Mountain National Park, Houtbay, Cape Town

Why: Swimming, birdwatching, diving, camping,

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/about/contact.php

Rivier Plaas Camping Spot, Worcester (Cape Winelands)

What: There are unique hand-built play parks for the kids to explore and plenty of open grass areas to have fun in. Activities available are a swimming area; the kids will love the foefie slide into the river, braai facilities, fishing, and hiking and since it is a typical farm there are plenty of farm animals. This is a great place for families and children to have fun and explore and of course just enjoy the peace and beauty of nature. Looking for adventure or just a relaxing weekend away Rivierplaas should definitely be on your to-do list.

Where: Rivierplaas, Scherpenheuwel, Worcester

Why: Child- friendly, oudoor play area, relaxing, braai and picnic facilities, foefie slide, swimming and dog friendly

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: https://www.rivierplaas.co.za/

Does your family LOVE camping? Then read our blog on camping sites near Cape Town that kids will love!

Child-friendly accommodation and family-friendly resorts in the Western Cape to suit everyone

Aquila Private Game Reserve, Tousriver (Cape Winelands)

What: Cape Town's own BIG 5 safari and spa just 2 hours' drive from the Mother City.

Aquila is not only a luxury game reserve and lodge. Its primary purpose is to offer an educational experience to all who visit in the hope that knowledge will enrich our understanding of the importance of living in harmony with Mother Nature. All children are allowed on game drives, which are included in your overnight rates, as long as they have adult supervision. In summer, children can also swim, enjoy their dedicated children’s area with a jungle gym, life-size chess, and an indoor play area. We also offer a Junior Ranger Program.

Where: R46 Ceres Turnoff from the N1

Why: Indoor play area, family friendly accommodation, oudoor play area, game drives, swimming and child-friendly activities

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Aquila Private Game Reserve

Old Mac Daddy, Grabouw (Overberg)

What: Set amongst the apple orchards, this family-friendly resort offers an escape into the country with open spaces, mountain paths, and a lakeside beach. In the cooler winter months, families can bond over board games in front of a roaring fire. Expect indoor and outdoor play areas with various activities as well as a full kids menu for kids under 8 (included in your price). Self-catering and glamping accommodation options available.

Where: Elgin Valley Road, Elgin, Grabouw

Why: Family -friendly resort, mountain paths, lake swimming, Outdoor play areas, Indoor play area and delicious meals

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Old Mac Daddy

Houw Hoek Hotel, Grabouw (Overberg)

What: Situated in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, this child-friendly retreat is a mere 80km from Cape Town. Offering great conferencing facilities (for those business team building events which allow families to tag along) and childminders, Houw Hoek Hotel caters for every possible need with these activities:

Putt-putt

Jungle gyms

Volleyball

2 x Swimming pools

Jumping castle (seasonal)

Water slides (seasonal)

Trampoline

Indoor games room

Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails

Where: N2, Houw Hoek, Grabouw

Why: Child friendly accommodation, swimming, water activities, child minders, outdoor play and indoor play areas

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Houw Hoek Hotel

Cape Nature, (Various areas in and around Western Cape)

What: CapeNature’s aim is to conserve the unique natural heritage resources of the Western Cape for the benefit of all. CapeNature is committed to reconnecting young people with nature by helping them understand and enjoy the biodiversity around them. Ultimately, they want to equip our children for the earth they will inherit. They offer fantastic child friendly self-catering and camping accommodation across their reserves and offer all sorts of activities such as swimming, picnicking, wildlife watching, mountain biking and cycling.

Where: Winelands, West Coast, Overberg, Garden Route, Cape Karoo

Why: Self-catering accommodation, camping, child friendly activities, mountain biking, hiking, swimming and so much more

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Cape Nature accommodation

Blommekloof Country Lodge, Leeukloof, Western Cape

What: The country lodge is situated 35km from Mossel Bay in the foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains. They offer self-catering accommodation in their beautiful cottages that are also pet-friendly. The farm provides a place to get away from it all, where there is no television, giving you the opportunity to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. There is an array of farm animals and enough space for the kids to run around freely. The cottages are fenced off, making it safe for kids and pets. There are also dams which everybody can swim in on those hot days, or fish in....

There are plenty of games available in the cupboards and books to read for those lazy afternoons.

Where: Leeukloof Valley, near Ruiterbos, off the R328 (the Robinsons Pass from Mossel Bay to Oudtshoorn)

Why: Dog friendly, child-friendly, swimming, outdoor play, connecting with nature, self-catering accommodation

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: www.blommekloof.co.za

Enjoy visiting all the Family-friendly holiday resorts in the Western Cape.

Explore nature and play at an outdoor play park or party venue

Rugby Tots, (Multiple locations around the country)

What: Make your child's development more fun! The fun, structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination with engaging and energetic coaches supporting them every step of the way whilst teaching how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team.

Where: Multiple locations around the country

Why: Fun, structured child friendly play outdoors, learning ball skills, family activities

Who: Kids aged 2 – 9 years old

Web: Rugby Tots

Scootours, Cape Town

Scootours offer a unique tour that is child friendly, family friendly and friendly to the environment. These non motorised downhill tours originated in Switzerland where participants freewheel down the mountain slopes on non motorized Monster Scooters.

Where: Table Mountain, Stellenbosch

Why: Fun, child friendly outdoor activity, learning balance skills, family activities

Who: Children- Tweens and Adults

Web: Scootours Cape Town

Acrobranch, Hout Bay

What: This is a great outdoor adventure activity for toddlers in Cape Town and Surrounds. Children will have fun swinging through the trees on zip lines. There are different courses available to suit everybody’s level from toddlers through to adult challenges.

Where: 1 Hout Bay Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Why: Outdoor play, challenging fun family activity, party venue, nature viewing

Who: Toddlers - Adults

Web: Acrobranch outdoor party venue

Cape Point, Table Mountain National Park (Cape Winelands)

What: Cape Point, within Table Mountain National Park, is an iconic South African destination steeped in maritime history and known for its natural beauty. The natural vegetation of the area, fynbos, comprises the smallest but richest of the world’s six floral kingdoms. Apart from its untouched beaches, sheer cliffs and rich biodiversity, attractions include The Cape of Good Hope, the old and new lighthouses at the tip of the peninsula, the world-class Two Oceans Restaurant, curio shops, and Africa’s only commercial funicular – the Flying Dutchman

Where: Table Mountain National Park, Cape Peninsula

Why: Restaurant, family friendly outdoor activities, outdoor play, hiking, funicular trips, shops

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: Cape Point things to do

The Galileo (various venues in and around the Western Cape)

What: The unique summer activity offers the perfect setting for an incredible family bonding date night under the stars. Apart from their regular screenings of rom-coms and musicals, The Galileo offers an array of beloved family-friendly films throughout the summer, from golden classics like The Sound Of Music and E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial to modern day hit animations like Trolls and Moana. The adult and kids' entertainment doesn’t stop there - vibey music, interactive games and an on-site mini-market serving up delicious food and snacks add to the unique bucket list experience. Relax on the luscious lawn with a glass of wine while the little ones run wild or enjoy a giant game of Jenga for a little inter-family competition. Once tummies are full and fun has been had by all, snuggle up for a beautiful sunset and the much-anticipated movie.

Where: Various venues (Kirstenbosch Gardens, Central Park, Battery Park, Meerendal Wine Estate, Steenberg Farm, Various Wine Farms, Kelvin Grove and the Zip Zap Dome)

Why: Picnics, movies, family fun, wine, stargazing

Who: All Ages

Web: Galileo open air cinema

Battlefield Live SA, (Various venues in and around the Western Cape

What: A sophisticated interactive outdoor Laser Tag company that offers combat simulation gaming. Entertaining kid’s Call of Duty parties can be arranged with fun and excitement. With gaming time well spent with your friends and family. There are no paintballs, projectiles or masks. They provide pure adrenalin and action in a safe environment with plenty of activities available for all ages to enjoy. Battlefield Live Laser Tag events include so many ‘extra’s’ not offered by other laser tag companies. Battlefield Live Laser Tag events run throughout winter, outdoors, as they have imported ponchos for the children to wear. A great and fun kids party venue.

Where: They operate from these venues - Wynberg Park, Altydgedacht Wine Estate in Durbanville and Freedom Hill situated on the slopes of the Wemmershoek Mountain.

Why: Fun outdoor activity, kids party venue, family friendly and child friendly

Who: Teens and Adults

Web: Battlefield Live SA

Pirate Golf and Splash Pad, Bengula Cove (Overberg)

What: Child-Friendly Pirate Adventure Golf and Splash Pad in Benguela Cove, Hermanus, Western Cape. Bring the kids and the rest of the family to play some child-friendly adventure golf, enjoy the Splash pad and have a delicious meal.

Where: Benguela cove lagoon wine estate, r43, bot river lagoon, Hermanus

Why: Good old fashioned family fun, outdoor activity, party venue, swimming and water park, good food

Who: Toddlers to Adults

Web: Pirate Golf and Splash Pad

The Afrikaans Taalmonument, Paarl (Cape Winelands)

What: There is something magical about a full moon and now you and your family can have a closer look during one of the Fullmoon picnics hosted by the Afrikaanse Taalmonument. Bring your own picnic or order one from Volksmond Cafe (tel. 021 863 2800). Enjoy a beautiful sunset before viewing a full moon.

Where: Taalmonument, Gabbema Doordriftstraat | Street, Paarl

Why: Night time picnics, concerts, full moon viewings, star gazing, family-friendly

Who: Toddlers - Adults

Web: The Afrikaans Taalmonument

Bugz Playpark, (Kraaifontein)

What: An enormous outdoor and indoor play area and party venue. Two large sandpit areas with colourful jungle gyms, slides, swings, play houses, tree houses, a castle and obstacles to crawl under or climb over - bring your kids today and get them learning through play!

Where: 56 Tarentaal Rd, Joostenberg Vlakte, Cape Town

Why: Outdoor play, indoor play, party venue, family friendly, child-friendly

Who: All ages, (babies, toddlers, teens, adults)

Web: www.bugzplaypark.co.za

Outdoor kids party venue ideas

Explore these Indoor Kids Party and Play Venues for those rainy days

Make it Magical workshops, Constantia (Southern Suburbs)

What: Let the kids express themselves and use their imaginations this summer holidays. The Make it Magical Workshops are a wonderful experience for the kids and are sure to keep them busy. The workshops are sure to be the best arts and crafts ever! We loved the kids' entertainment in terms of providing guidance and assistance with creating furniture for their fairy homes.

Where: Ferndale Nurseries, Brommersvlei Road, Constantia,

Why: Child friendly, crafting, fine motor skills, imagination

Who: Toddlers to adults

Web: Make it Magical

Make sure you don't miss the Festive Winter Wonderland Workshop to be held at the Chavonnes Museum, V&A Waterfront. For more information please visit Winter Wonderland Workshop with Make it Magical.

Candle Avenue, Durbanville (Northern Suburbs)

What: Candle Avenue kids' play and party venue offers both indoor and outdoor entertainment for kids and adults alike, with tailor-made experiences and the opportunity to be creative- this is one of the best kids party ideas. Come winter or summer they will make it a magical day!

Where: 10 Moraea St, Halali, Durbanville, Northern Suburbs, Cape Town

Why: Indoor play venue, outdoor play venue, tailormade party venue, family friendly entertainment

Who: Toddlers - Adults

Web: Candle Avenue Parties Durbanville

Raceworld, Table View (West Coast)

What: Bring the kids for a slot car racing experience at Race World SA in Table View, Cape Town!

They offer a variety of events at the raceway from kids parties, bachelor parties, team building, casual racing as well as a members club. The track is indoors so a perfect venue for any weather.

Where: Shop 22, Tableview shopping centre, Cnr Blaauwberg Road and Otto du Plessis, Table View

Why: Slot car racing, party venue, indoor play area

Who: 5+ (ideal for preschoolers to teens and adult team-building too!)

Web: Raceworld indoor play area

Kids Pilot Parties, Matroosfontein (Northern Suburbs)

What: The Club provides a friendly and safe atmosphere where you can introduce your little one to the life of a Pilot. Kids can experience the roar of aircraft, and see them as they leave and return from flights, while they are enjoying themselves.

We make your child's pilot themed birthday party a reality. The club has a play area and a jumping castle available for parties. Kids Pilot parties will provide Planes themed decorations and party boxes filled with treats and drinks, Fun games and activities to keep your little ones busy. Photos at the aircraft can also be arranged.

Where: 2 Douglas road, Matroosfontein

Why: Aircrafts, fun indoor and outdoor play, party venue, treats

Who: Ages: 5+ (ideal for preschoolers to tweens)

Web: Kids pilot parties

Style for Life Indoor Parties, Oude Westhof (Northern Suburbs)

What: Gather the girls' together for a fun party at home. This includes themed parties from Indoor Slumber Teepee Parties, Spa Parties and Dance Parties. Another option is to get a few girls (6 to 15) friends and have a party at the Studio. The party will be about 2 hours long and includes:

Table with kids champagne, juice, sweets chips etc.

Also Includes: Facial, nail and foot polish, makeup, lip gloss, hair spray & dancing

Where: 11 Sauvignon blanc, Oude Westhof

Why: Fun pamper days, party venue, slumber parties, refreshments and spa treatments

Who: Age: 5+ (ideal for preschoolers to tweens)

Web: Style for life indoor parties

The Kids Gym, Sable Square (Century City)

What: We provide an active and FUN way to get fit through our specially developed curriculum using a variety of cardio exercises, games and equipment designed to teach strength, coordination, flexibility, core, balance and general physical fitness that will prepare children for all sports, whilst boosting self-confidence and social skills.

Where: Sable Square Shopping Centre Cnr Bosmansdam & Ratanga Rd, Century City

Why: Kid friendly exercise, indoor sport, jumping, party venue, core strengthening, fun family activity and good food

Who: Toddlers to Teens

Web: The Kids Gym indoor party venue

Clay Cafe, Hout Bay (Atlantic Seaboard)

What: The Clay Cafe is a family run business founded in 1999. They have recently moved to a brand new home! This 2.5-acre piece of land is situated in the heart of the valley of Hout Bay. With a large open patio, every table is close to the luscious garden and every child is ecstatic with our innovative playground. They have beautiful peaceful outside tables, as well as a veggie garden and our own African chic’ boutique. The Clay Cafe is an ideal day out for a ‘one of a kind’ creative experience. They offer adult and children’s parties (4 years and up), school outings, hen parties and team buildings and of course a delicious menu. All bookings 10 people or less can easily be booked online, hassle-free.

Where: Clay Cafe, 4080 Main Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Why: Arts and crafts, family-friendly, child-friendly, party venue, hens parties, school outings and of course delicious food

Who: Toddler to Adults, Parties from 4 years old

Web: The Clay Cafe arts and crafts

Scratch Patch, V&A Waterfront (Atlantic Shore)

What: Southern Africa is often considered the “gemstone capital of the world” as almost half of the world’s gemstones are found in this part of the world. For this reason, experiencing the amazing beauty and variety of gemstones is an absolute “must” for visitors to Cape Town. One of the most popular and convenient places to see and buy gemstones in Cape Town – and see an amazing variety of gemstone products – is at The Scratch Patch and Mineral World outlets at Simon’s Town and the V&A Waterfront.

Where: 1 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town,

Why: Fun child-friendly digging, indoor play, family activity, educational

Who: Toddlers to Adults

Web: The Scratch patch at V&A

Bugz Playpark, Stellenbosch (Cape Winelands)

What: Amazing indoor party venue near Stellenbosch, Cape Town. There is so much to do at Bugz Playpark that the kids will be entertained all day.

What do they have?

Indoor and outdoor play venue

Fun kids rides: horse rides, peddle carts, water slides, toddler train rides and lots more.

Sandpit, Slides, Monkey Bars, Doll’s house, Jungle Gym and Petting farm

Where: 56 Tarentaal Rd, Joostenberg Vlakte, Cape Town

Why: Indoor play venue, Outdoor Play Venue, Horse riding, Party Venue, Water activities, Family Friendly activities

Who: 2 - 10 (toddlers, preschool, Grade-school, tween)

Web: Bugz Playpark party venue

View our Kids Indoor Play Venues in Cape Town 2019

Awesome mountain-bike parks and trails in Cape Town and beyond that could suit both families with kids and families with dogs

True Grit Bike Park, Somerset West (Helderberg)

What: This dog-friendly park offers a YBIKE skills track for the 1- to 5-year olds and an easy circular trail of 1,5 km which the kids will love. Enjoy a good cup of coffee while you watch the kids ride, if that's what you prefer. Pack your own picnic or hire a braai area, bring a chop and some friends and make the most of your time there.

Where: Knorhoek Road, Sir Lowry’s Pass

Why: Child friendly bike riding, great coffee, picnicking, braaing and dog friendly

Who: Ages 1-5

Web: http://www.truegrit.bike

The Bike Park, Constantia (Cape Winelands)

What: An extremely popular bike park buzzing with riders of all ages, ideal for popping in after school or over a weekend. A small riders' fee is charged for the day. There is something for all ages: keep the little ones busy on smooth winding tracks with wooden features, and the already confident riders can enjoy the rock gardens and drop-offs.

Also: bike shop that sells cycling items and YBIKEs; bicycle workshop; a coffee shop and shaded areas where parents can relax while the kids ride.

Where: Spaanschemat River Road, Constantia, Cape Town

Why: Great coffee, bike riding, family-friendly, child-friendly, outdoor play

Who: Ages 1-5, 5+ and experienced riders

Web: https://bikeparkatuitsig.co.za/

Bloemendal Wine Estate MTB Track, Durbanville (Northern Suburbs)

What: Bloemendal Wine Estate offers mountain biking for the whole family. Besides adult trails, this exciting bike park also offers:

The Incubator: 1-km dirt trail snaking its way through the trees with obstacles, dips berms and other fun features.

B-Kids: purpose-built YBIKE skills track for the 1- to 5-year olds, fenced to keep kids safe. It boasts a number of obstacles to help encourage the art of balance and to create a safe but fun experience for the little riders.

B-Fever: two dirt pump tracks for all age groups, but younger riders should be supervised. Full off berms, jumps and rolls and a great place for balance bikes and young kids on a pedal bike to hone their skills

B-Spot: a 3,2-km track with berms, rollers, jumps, rock gardens and bridges. It is a great place for more experienced balance bikers and kids on pedal bikes to increase their skills without going out on trails. Smaller kids should be supervised as this trail is used by other riders.

Where: M13 Tygervalley Rd, Durbanville, Cape Town

Why: Mountain Biking for the whole family, family-friendly, large outdoor play area, fantastic child friendly restaurant

Who: Ages 1-5, 5+ and experienced riders

Web: Bloemendal Wine Estate

Hazendal Wine Estate, Stellenbosch (Cape Winelands)

What: This is a fairly new mountain-bike skills park and boasts multiple trails: YBIKE skills track for the 1- to 5-year olds; skills trail for up to 8 years old on pedal bikes; a longer skills and flow trail for all ages; a pump track, and shorter trails for the older riders.

Also: a great picnic area with benches right in front of the YBIKE Skills track under shady trees. The main winery buildings are now open to the public.

Where: Bottelary Rd, Stellenbosch Farms, Stellenbosch

Why: Wine farm, bike riding, family day out, events and party venue

Who: 1-5, 5+ and experienced riders

Web: Hazendal Wine Estate

Meerendal MTB Trails, Durbanville (Northern Suburbs)

What: All the trails are graded from easy to medium and have been designed for the whole family to enjoy. The Route is made up of three inter-leading trails of 4km (Yellow), 12km (Red) and 18km (Blue), and take 1-2 hours to complete depending on your pace.

Also: There are two restaurants on-premises, one of them, Carlucci’s, also has an outdoor play area visible from the outdoor seating area.

Where: Vissershok Rd, Durbanville

Why: Indoor play area, outdoor play area, mountain bike riding, family friendly, nature loving

Who: 5+ and experienced riders

Web: https://meerendal.co.za/trails/

Fun mountain bike parks near Cape Town

Fun Cape Town play venues and activities under R100

Oudekraal (Between Llandudno and Camp’s Bay)

What: Oudekraal has over 40 braai areas, although most don’t have grids, so be sure to bring your own with you.Oudekraal is between Llandudno and Camp’s Bay

Where: Between llandudno and Camp's bay

Why: Braaing, swimming, diving, music, beautiful views, rock climing, Family friendly, Under R100

Who: All ages

Web: https://www.sanparks.org/

Newlands Forest, Newlands (Southern Suburbs)

What: Newlands Forest is a conservation area on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, beside the suburb of Newlands, Cape Town. It is owned and maintained by the Table Mountain National Parks Board, along with the City Parks Department of Cape Town, and includes a Fire Station, Nursery and Reservoir. Bring your own Charcoal and have a braai in the designated areas.

Where: Table Mountain National Park, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve)

Why: Best Braai Spot in Cape Town, Picnicking, Hiking, Walking, Nature viewing, Child friendly

Who: All ages

Web: https://bit.ly/2JOXxrp

See more Things to do With Kids under R100