Top 5 Fun Things to do in Cape Town (for friends and Families)

All good things, like a fun-filled family outing in Cape Town, start with the mountain. And no, it’s not because Table Mountain is the only thing worth seeing. Far from it! Cape Town is packed with exciting things to explore. The mountain simply takes center stage because so many adventures begin right there. From its base, you’re perfectly positioned for a memorable day out in the Cape—whether it’s hiking, picnicking, or discovering the beauty of nearby spots like Lion’s Head or the Twelve Apostles.

Did you know? Cape Town isn’t just about Table Mountain! The city is home to Lion’s Head, with its iconic shape and stunning views, Devil’s Peak for adventurous hikers, and the dramatic Twelve Apostles mountain range that hugs the coastline. These natural wonders make Cape Town a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and scenery lovers alike. But let’s start with the iconic Table Mountain:

1. Table Mountain

…as a family photo spot

Table Mountain is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Cape Town, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for families. With its stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas, Table Mountain provides an ideal backdrop for family photos and memories that will last a lifetime. The cable car ride to the top is an exciting adventure for kids, and the hiking trails provide a fun and challenging activity for the whole family to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this incredible destination!

GO FOR FREE : During the month of your birthday, you can go up Table Mountain for free!

TRAVEL TIP: Table Mountain gets very busy during peak season. Often there is a waiting time of 3 hours or more to go up in the cable car. Book your tickets before you go, to skip the line.

Is it your birthday month? Get free stuff all over Cape Town:

Unlock Your Cape Town Birthday: 7 Must-Visit Attractions With Freebies!

2. Cape Point

Together with Table Mountain, it is one of THE most beautiful spots you can visit in Cape Town.
Cape Point is where rugged cliffs meet the endless blue of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Known for its breathtaking views, it’s a dream for nature lovers and photographers. The Cape of Good Hope, nearby, is iconic for its wild beauty. Walk the scenic trails, spot wildlife like baboons and antelope, or ride the Flying Dutchman Funicular to the old lighthouse for panoramic vistas. With its dramatic coastline and historic significance, Cape Point feels like the edge of the world—a must-see for anyone exploring the Cape Peninsula.

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3. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Another special spot we would recommend is Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is a must-see destination for nature lovers and families visiting Cape Town. Home to over 7,000 species of plants, this beautiful garden offers a relaxing and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy picnics on the sprawling lawns or explore the treetop canopy walkway for a unique perspective of the garden. Kirstenbosch also hosts regular concerts and events during the summertime, making it a perfect day out for the whole family.

4. Babylonstoren & Gardens (just outside of Cape Town)

Babylonstoren is a wonderful place to explore for both kids and adults. Being one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms in Cape Town, it boasts a Farm Hotel, Bakery, and the famous Babel Restaurant. I believe kids would enjoy exploring the well-maintained and huge fruit and vegetable gardens. During our last visit, we saw the largest ever pumpkins growing in one of the veggie patches. Something kids don’t often see anymore. I would recommend you check in with the farm on what’s happening, as at certain times of the year you would be spoiled with a spread of blossoms or lavender or clivias and so many more. Every time you visit Babylonstoren you will see something different in the gardens: In my opinion a truly exceptional experience. But check out this video of the famous Monty Don visiting the beautiful gardens. Read more about our visit.

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Travel Tip: While you’re in the Western Cape, keep in mind that almost all of the wine farms in the region are family-friendly. Offering kiddies menus, play areas, and more. But take note they can get very busy during weekends, so get up early and enjoy brunch or breakfast at any of the stunning Cape wine farms. Spend the day, exploring the surroundings.

5. Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate - Duck Parade (just outside of Cape Town)

When visiting one of the oldest working wine farms in South Africa, you can expect some beautiful heritage architecture like the Cape Dutch homestead dating back to 1773, but a surprise awaits you at Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate.

In my view it is an experience you just have to do once in your life: Attend the Runner Duck Parade.

According to their website, an unbelievable 1600 Indian Runner ducks make out part of the farms’ pest control. Undoubtedly the best wine farm experience I have ever had and to the great delight of kids and adults alike. With huge trees to sit under and food from the Deli or a picnic bought on the farm, you cannot go wrong. On the day we visited the farm they had live music and the atmosphere was really relaxing. The kids enjoyed the play park as well.

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More Great Ideas for Fun-filled day trips and/or activities in Cape Town (Family-Friendly)

Vacation in Cape Town – 18 Ideas on what to do with kids in and around the city:

Boulders Beach: Spend time with the Cape penguins colony on a pretty beach: Address: 4 Boulders Place, Secluse Ave, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Sunbathe at Clifton on white sandy beaches with spectacular views. Or visit Camps Bay with its views of the Twelve Apostles and Lion’s Head. This Blue Flag beach is a popular one amongst locals.
Take a tour at SANCCOB in Table View – perfect for all ages and all animal lovers and learn, watch the penguin waddle walk. (22 Pentz Drive, Table View – reception@sanccob.co.za)
The South African Museum, Planetarium, and a stroll in the Company gardens: Address: 25 Queen Victoria Street, Gardens, Cape Town (all in one location)
Right at the top of the Company Gardens you’ll find Iziko Museum (founded in 1825) – they are open from 09H00 to 17H00 and there are lots to explore. It sure is one of our favorite museums.
A visit to the Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town (a bit different from your normal castle in Europe): Address: Buitenkant Street, opposite the Grand Parade, Cape Town
In the famous and colorful Bo-Kaap, you can visit the Iziko Bo-Kaap museum, one of the earliest homes built in the Bo-Kaap area dating back to the mid-18th century.
Groot Constantia dates back to 1685 and is the home of Simon van der Stel, one of the oldest commercial wine farms in South Africa.
Walk and play in the Greenpoint Park: Address: 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8051 (Open from 07H00 to 19H00 daily)
Visit the V&A Waterfront and the Two Oceans Aquarium: Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8002
Miniature Golf with a sea view in Sea Point. (Address: Beach Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8005 – near Mouille Point lighthouse ) Or some glow-in-the-dark mini golf at Glow Rooms SA in Milnerton. (Tel. 021- 551 2244)
Go on the iconic open-top Red Bus and see the whole of Cape Town. Sightseeing made easy.
Go on a harbor cruise at V&A Waterfront.
Visit one of the many beautiful wine farms in and around Cape Town and do a few wine tours and tasting.
Visit Hout Bay situated at the cliffs of Chapmans Peak, from where you can do the iconic and beautiful Chapmans Peak drive.
Go horse riding on the amazing Noordhoek Beach.
Visit Kloovenburg just outside of the pretty little village of Riebeeck Kasteel. Play park for kids under the trees, picnic spots and more.
Explore Simon’s Town – search for the famous statue of Just Nuisance the most famous dog in the Cape, discover fabulous restaurants with views of the ocean and pretty little shops.

…and there’s more:

Riding the Cape Wheel at the Waterfront, hiking up Lion’s Head, taking the cable car up Table Mountain, enjoying the beach at Camps Bay, walking along the Sea Point Promenade, discovering the World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary, visiting the Scratch Patch gemstone collection, exploring Green Point Park, taking a boat trip to Seal Island, visiting the Cape Town Science Centre, discovering art at the Zeitz MOCAA, playing at Blue Rock Adventure Park, visiting Imhoff Farm, spending a day at Bugz Family Playpark, paddle boating at the Waterfront Canals (glow in the dark), and paddle biking at Hout Bay.

Find the Most famous dog in the Cape

Just Nuisance was the only dog ever to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. Yes, this special doggy served at HMS Afrikander, a Royal Navy shore establishment in Simon’s Town, South Africa. He died at the age of seven years and was buried with full military honours.”

Born: 1 April 1937 | Died: 1 April 1944

Breed: Great Dane

Address: St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town

Go strawberry Picking

If you go strawberry picking, buy enough so you can make your own jam at home. It is the best and you will be very proud to serve it to friends and family. Try our recipe for Homemade Strawberry Jam.