Kid Friendly Cape Town

Our Local Expert Says:

Some of the best views of Cape Town and surrounds come from the trail that winds its way around Lions Head. Beautiful at any time of the day, a walk up Lions Head is an essential part of enjoying Cape Town’s natural beauty.

Description:

Guarding the western edge of Cape Town, Lion's Head offers hiking with views over the Atlantic Seaboard, Robben Island, the Cape Town city bowl, and Table Mountain. For those who prefer having their feet off solid ground, tour companies operate tandem paragliding from Lions Head's slopes to the Atlantic coast. Locals can be found hiking Lions Head daily but full moon evening is often popular for sunset drinks on the summit.

Our Local Expert Says:

There are numerous short (or long) walks you can take on Table Mountain from the top of the station. Just remember that the weather can change quickly and that, despite its proximity to the city, the Mountain should be treated with respect- take the same precautions you would in any mountain range.

Description:

The first Table Mountain cableway was opened on 4 October 1929. Since that date over eleven million people have used the service, and it's still extremely popular today. The circulating cableway provides spectacular views, offering a leisurely panorama of the city and surrounds. It's well worth the trip, but not for the nervous or vertigo-sufferers. If you're feeling adventurous, you could take the cable car to the summit and then hike down Table Mountain using one of the 550 established routes. The cableway's hours of operation are seasonal. Please check the website or call before planning your trip.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Cape Peninsula is home to some of the world’s greatest floral diversity. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is host to numerous examples and provides a great venue for walking, picnicking, and playing.

Description:

Settled along the eastern slope of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens hosts over 22,000 indigenous plants. Just 15 minutes away from Cape Town city centre, the Botanical Gardens are extraordinarily natural in design and blend straight in to the mountain. There is a tea shop and picnic sites for those wanting to enjoy a leisurely visit and paths from the Garden leading straight onto Table Mountain for the more active. In summer, there are Sunday Summer concerts on the lawn; arrive early, enjoy the Garden, set up a picnic spot and enjoy the music.

Description:

One of the most beautiful drives in the world, Cape Town's Chapmans Peak Drive is a spectacular 10 km coastal drive linking Noordhoek to Hout Bay. In spring (Sept-November) Southern Right Whales can be spotted in Hout Bay. Year round there are stunning views from numerous viewpoints and picnic spots. A trail to Chapman's Peak itself starts just before the highest viewpoint on Chapman's Peak Drive. If the road is closed or if one only wants to access the portion of the road closer to Hout Bay, a complimentary day pass can be acquired from the toll booth.

Our Local Expert Says:

The local favorite- great breads and tasty bits at the bakery around the corner, seafood and other staples in the ever overcrowded restaurant with views of the harbor.

Description:

Just across from the Kalk Bay Harbour is this popular local hangout offering everything from breakfast, pastries, and cakes to tasty dinner entrees. Expect a wait, especially on weekends as the whole community drops in. Around the corner the bakery offers fresh breads, spreads, and pastries.

Our Local Expert Says:

For anyone who has ever wanted to try surfing, this is the beach to do it on. Claiming to be one of the most beginner friendly in the world, there are plenty of surf schools around to introduce you to the waves. Watch out when the Southeaster is blowing though, best to stay away from Muizenberg then.

Description:

Just at the northern end of False Bay, Muizenberg is a popular surfing and kite surfing spot, especially for beginners. The beach itself continues eastward and is popular for walkers on weekends.

Our Local Expert Says:

Hands down the best fish and chips in the entire peninsula. Far more than your basic fried hake and chips- expect large servings, a variety of seafood, and good ol' harbor atmosphere.

Description:

Across from the fancy restaurants in the Kalk Bay Harbour, this fish and chips shop has a menu larger than many restaurants and serves only the freshest of seafood. Huge portion sizes are served to locals who value good seafood at great prices to cutlery and tablecloths. Indoor and outdoor seating right in the harbour.

Our Local Expert Says:

Getting a view of the Cape Peninsula by sea is definitely a worthwhile experience. On this trip, you'll get great views of Hout Bay as well as the mountains between Hout Bay and Llandudno. Enjoy some fish and chips at Fish on the Rocks after- cheaper and better than the more touristy Mariners Wharf.

Description:

This small island is a sanctuary for thousands of Cape Fur seals as well as a variety of seabirds including Cormorants and Gulls. It is illegal to land on the island, but the boat trip takes you within arm's reach of the seals who seem to know they're the centre of attention. These actors put on a fantastic performance, diving and twisting with amazing speed and agility. The trip back provides beautiful views of Hout Bay set at the foot of the steeply sloped Sentinel Mountain. This fun outing is particularly popular with children. The boat leaves daily from Hout Bay harbour (weather dependent), and a return trip lasts approximately forty minutes.

Our Local Expert Says:

An easy addition to a peninsula tour, take in the range of wildlife here on your way to Chapmans Peak drive or before enjoying fish and chips at the Hout Bay Harbor.

Description:

Enjoy viewing over 3,000 birds of all kinds - seen in walk-through aviaries, while the Magic Forest of tropical plants, birds and monkeys will captivate and enthuse children of all ages. The daily feeding of the Pelicans, the Penguins, birds of prey and the special Black Eagle are events not to be missed. Other animals, such as Meerkats and Leguwaans make this a place of great interest to children. There is a café, which serves breakfast, light lunches and tea and coffee, as well as a curio shop with bird paraphernalia.

Description:

Situated at the V and A Waterfront, the aquarium offers a comprehensive overview of the aquatic life of South Africa ranging from the smallest of creatures to sharks housed in the 'predator tank.' There are various feeding times for different animals and it would be worthwhile arranging to visit around these times. Scuba diving in the predator tank is also possible, book through the aquarium.

Our Local Expert Says:

A burger for everyone- extensive menu with a range of toppings and numerous patty options- great vegetarian choices as well! The milkshakes are well worth it.

Description:

More varieties of burgers than you could ever hope for- twists on the old fashioned meat patty, phenomenal seafood burgers and around ten different vegetarian burgers (and were not talking the old soymince patty) to choose from. Fantastic milkshakes as well from chunky banana peanut butter to avocado and lime. Very popular bar and club upstairs in a converted city loft with private nooks, rooftop access, and a comfortable lounge area.

Description:

The southern tip of the Cape Peninsula is allocated to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. The most famous feature within the reserve is the actual point itself along with the lighthouses that mark its location for sailors. However, at 78 square kilometers and stretching along 40 kilometers of coastline, the rest of the Cape Point Nature Reserve definitely deserves more thorough exploration by visitors. In addition to unique flora, the Reserve is home to numerous species of antelope, ostriches, tortoises, and baboons.

Our Local Expert Says:

A fun stop over near the entrance to Cape Point Nature Reserve, the Ostrich Farm offers ostrich rides and information on the bird.

Description:

Enjoy an interesting visit to this productive ostrich show farm. Tours are available to familiarize visitors with the life cycle of the ostrich giving one a unique look at these majestic birds. One may be surprised at how big they are and the speed at which they can move, but don't get too close as their beaks hold a nasty bite. There is also a tea garden, and a curio shop with a rather macabre stock of ostrich leather products. Catering may be arranged by prior appointment.

Description:

Temporary "home" to many of South Africa's most famous anti-apartheid activists including Nelson Mandela, Robben Island served as prison, place of learning, and international symbol of apartheid governance. Today, the island is an UN World Heritage Site and has taken on the role of museum with tours led by former prisoners. Access is available by ferry from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V and A Waterfront. Book ahead to ensure availability and allocate half a day to the full trip.

Description:

Mama Africa's serves up fantastic food from across the African continent in a funky, boisterous atmosphere.  Warm, friendly waiters provide information on the range of dishes brought to the table to be shared 'family style.'  A great place for a relaxed group gathering, a cultural experience, and fun cultural eating.