Big local park that has a fenced toddler area, bigger jungle gyms deeper in, and is dog-friendly. You can also occasionally get a coffee, ice cream and some snacks from a local vendor on the bottom school field.
Out & About
Find a family outing by budget, activity and weather — from free parks and beaches to bookable indoor adventures and Winelands day trips.
Parks & Playgrounds
Who doesn't love a good park outing. Free, open, and the fastest way to burn off some energy.Huge, free and beautifully kept: multiple playgrounds, biodiversity garden, outdoor gym.
Beloved Victorian park with giant shady trees, a fenced dog park, a playground and summer 'Concerts in the Park'.
Grassy park climbing the slopes above the city with a stream and jungle gym, big views, and the family-favourite Deer Park Café alongside.
The historic Company's Garden in the city centre — lawns, a lily pond, cheeky squirrels and museums on the doorstep.
Leafy riverside park with a much-loved treehouse. Free; park at the Shell garage next door.
Free playground on the promenade, with sea views, a bike track and public loos.
Green riverside strip along the Liesbeek with walking paths and open lawns for a run-around. Kids can play in the river and hunt for tadpoles.
Beaches & Tidal Pools
Cape Town's best free outing: sand, sun, rock pools and swims.The gold-standard family beach — long, gentle, lifeguards, shark spotters and a playground, with the Galley restaurant right next to the beach for ice creams or basic meals afterwards.
- Food
- Yes · on site
Great family-friendly beach where you can surf — warm water, shallow, gentle waves and surf schools that do kids' lessons, with the famous colourful huts for photos.
The iconic huts plus a small sandy beach with a tidal pool — lovely family spot that gets busy.
Popular family-friendly tidal pool with a small strip of sand and rock pools to explore at low tide. The water is slightly warmer and the pool is mostly sheltered from the wind.
Two-part tidal pool with a shallow splash pool for children and a separate deeper section for swimmers. Access is via a walkway beneath the railway line.
A hit with toddlers: shallow with a sandy bottom and not usually busy. No bathroom though, so plan around that.
The ‘insider’ move right next to Boulders: free, calm, boulder-sheltered swimming — and penguins regularly waddle across anyway.
Small, sheltered coves near Boulders — calm water and another spot where penguins turn up.
Easy Walks & Nature
Family-friendly paths, forests, greenbelts and nature walks where kids can explore and burn off some energy.Shady indigenous-and-pine forest on the mountain's slopes — gentle walks, streams and a dog-walking favourite.
Arboretum and pine forest with wide, mostly pram-friendly paths, picnic spots and easy trails at the foot of the mountain.
Flat, leafy riverside walking trail through Constantia — shady, easy and a much-loved dog-walking route.
Forest walks and hikes: pine-forest paths and streams to explore. It is quite steep though.
A flat paved coastal path past the tidal pools and bathing spots along the coast — mostly pram-friendly. Warning: you can get splashed by the waves! Sea life can often be seen as you walk. Be aware of your surroundings and go in a group for safety reasons.
A tiny wetland loop around a pond — the perfect toddler-length 'walk', with turtles and ducks to see. Great spot for picnics too!
Part of the same green-belt network as the Alphen Trail. These two are the flattest and shadiest of the lot.
Beach walk and exercise routes along the coast. The city's classic pram highway: paved, with playgrounds en route, ending near the Blue Train Park.
Libraries & Story Time
A stack of books, children's sections and an outing that costs you nothing.Local library where you can borrow books and access other resources.
Local library where you can borrow books and access other resources.
Local library where you can borrow books and access other resources.
Local library where you can borrow books and access other resources.
Local library where you can borrow books and access other resources. Free reading session on Wednesdays at 10am.
Local library where you can borrow books and access other resources.
Local library where you can borrow books and access other resources.
Local library where you can borrow books and access other resources.
Free Indoor Outings
Rainy-day outings that don't have admission costs.Free, hands-on museum for little ones. It has a small playground outside too.
- Setting
- Indoor museum with outdoor play
Free aviation museum with historic aircraft, engines, uniforms and military-aviation displays. Saturday morning is the best family visit because the main aircraft collection is inside the secure part of the base.
- Setting
- Indoor hangars & displays
Phone ahead because access to the aircraft hangars is controlled by the active air-force base.
- Hours
- Wed–Fri 7–3pm · Sat 8:30–12pm
Gardens, Harbours & Easy Wanders
Relaxed gardens, nurseries, harbours and other easy places to wander without an entry ticket.Gardens, Harbours & Easy Wanders
Cnr Otto du Plessis & Sir David Baird Dr, Bloubergstrand- Price
- Free
- Setting
- Outdoor
Open-air beachfront restaurant strip with a sheltered jungle gym, grassed recreation area and Table Mountain views across the bay. Free underground parking.
- Food
- Yes · on site
Gardens, Harbours & Easy Wanders
Groot Constantia Rd, Constantia- Price
- Free
- Hours
- Estate experiences daily 10–5pm · tasting room daily 9–6pm
Historic wine estate with wide lawns, walking routes, a duck pond and two restaurants. The grounds are easy to explore as a family; paid visitor experiences include the Manor House museum, Cloete Cellar and cellar tours.
- Setting
- Outdoor
Working harbour where you can watch the seals and the fishing boats come in. Has restaurants you can eat at too.
Fun bike track for kids to ride on. It is part of a network of restaurants and stores on the estate.
Scenic, pram-friendly strolls around the V&A Waterfront canals and harbour, with lots for little ones to watch.
Wander the leafy family-run garden nursery, say hello to the ducks and chickens, and let the kids loose in the playground — a relaxed, free outing with a coffee cart open (sometimes).
- Setting
- Outdoor
Peaceful five-hectare garden filled with enormous old trees, ponds and winding paths. Six trees are protected Champion Trees, including one of the largest trees in South Africa — a lovely free spot for a shady family wander or picnic.
Free formal rose garden with lots of blooms from Spring through Summer, and lawns to wander around with little ones.
Family Markets & Weekend Wanders
Free-entry markets where families can browse, eat and make a morning or afternoon of it. Food and children's activities cost extra.Family Markets & Weekend Wanders
R44, Stellenbosch- Price
- Play access R100 for 2 hours · children's pizza pairing R115
- Ages
- All ages · play access charged for ages 2–12
This historic estate combines daily tastings and dining with a bike park, pump track and children's play area. The weather-dependent family market adds food stalls, live atmosphere and changing children's sensory-play activities on Saturdays and Sundays. Read more
- Food
- Yes · Market food & estate dining
- Can I see them?
- Lawns and play areas surround De Blaauwe Kitchen
- Play fee
- R100 entry · bike park pass is 2 hours · play areas ages 2–12
The market is weather permitting and no pets or outside food are allowed.
- Hours
- Estate: Mon–Sun 10–5pm · market Sat–Sun 9–5pm
- Booking
- Book De Blaauwe Kitchen directly · market is walk-in
Family Markets & Weekend Wanders
Lourensford Rd, Somerset West- Price
- Weekend market entry free
- Ages
- All ages
This large estate combines gardens, lawns and cycling routes with restaurants and a seasonal weekend market. The Millhouse Kitchen has access to a children's play area, while the market adds food stalls, live music and an interactive fountain. Read more
- Food
- Yes · Restaurants, cafés & weekend market food
- Hours
- Market seasonally Fri 5–10pm · Sat–Sun 11–4pm
- Booking
- Check the market calendar · book restaurants directly
Family Markets & Weekend Wanders
Cnr Granger Bay Boulevard & Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront- Price
- Free entry · food and shopping extra
- Ages
- All ages
A free-entry farmers' market in its purpose-built Granger Bay home, with more than 100 traders, fresh produce, baked goods and a huge choice of breakfast and lunch food. The new timber market hall is wheelchair-accessible and remains family- and dog-friendly. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor market hall & outdoor areas
- Hours
- Wed 4–9:30pm · Sat 8–2:30pm · Sun 8:30–2:30pm · Wed except Jun–Jul
Family Markets & Weekend Wanders
30 Regent Rd, Sea Point- Price
- Free entry · food and drinks extra
- Ages
- All ages · best daytime with younger children
A free-entry indoor food and lifestyle market with more than 35 food stalls, daily live music and enough choice to solve the family problem of everyone wanting something different. It is open every day and pairs easily with a Sea Point Promenade walk. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor food and music market
Live music and televised sport can make evenings loud and busy; there is no children's play area.
- Hours
- Coffee daily from 8am · food Sun–Thu 11–10pm, Fri–Sat 11–11pm
Pools & Water Play
Public pools, water slides and other places to cool off.Seasonal outdoor public pool beside Muizenberg Beach, with a calmer swimming option than the open sea. The 2026/27 City tariff is R9 for adults and R3 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.
- Setting
- Outdoor pool
The City currently lists Muizenberg Pool as closed. Check the official swimming-pool schedule before travelling.
- Hours
- Currently closed · check the live City pool schedule
Large outdoor public pool in Newlands. While infrastructure repairs continue, the 2026/27 City budget keeps the community-pool tariff at R9 for adults and R3 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.
- Setting
- Outdoor pool
The City currently lists Newlands Pool as closed while infrastructure work continues. Check the official swimming-pool schedule before travelling.
- Hours
- Currently closed · check the live City pool schedule
Heated indoor historic baths in the city centre — one of the City's currently open year-round swimming options. The 2026/27 day tariff is R40 for adults and R23 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.
- Setting
- Indoor heated pool
- Hours
- Open · check the live City schedule for current hours
The famous outdoor seawater-pool complex on the promenade, with a main pool, diving pool and children's pools. It is one of the City's currently open swimming facilities. The 2026/27 day tariff is R39 for adults and R23 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.
- Setting
- Outdoor seawater pools
- Hours
- Open · check the live City schedule for current hours
Indoor heated community pool in Retreat. The 2026/27 City day tariff is R20 for adults and R4 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.
- Setting
- Indoor heated pool
The City currently lists Retreat Pool as closed. Check the official swimming-pool schedule before travelling.
- Hours
- Currently closed · check the live City pool schedule
Indoor heated public pool in the Helderberg and one of the City's currently open swimming facilities. The 2026/27 day tariff is R40 for adults and R23 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.
- Setting
- Indoor heated pool
- Hours
- Open · check the live City schedule for current hours
Beachfront summer favourite with three slides for different ages, lifeguards on duty, shaded seating and a tuckshop — best for confident swimmers 4+ (no toddler pool). 1hr R100, 2hrs R130, full day R160, family-of-4 day pass R560, spectators R20. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor water slides
Nature Reserves, Gardens & Picnics
Ticketed nature areas, botanical gardens and beautiful places for a family wander or picnic.Nature Reserves, Gardens & Picnics
Simon's Town- Price
- SA residents R55 adult · R26 child aged 2–11
- Ages
- All ages · child rate 2–11 years
Swim beside African penguins and follow the boardwalks through their protected colony. The local conservation fee is R55 for adults and R26 for children aged 2–11 until 31 October 2026; bring proof of South African residency to claim it. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor beach & penguin boardwalks
- Hours
- Daily · gate times vary seasonally
Nature Reserves, Gardens & Picnics
Cape of Good Hope section, Table Mountain National Park- Price
- SA residents R110 adult · R55 child aged 2–11 · funicular extra
- Ages
- All ages · long drive between visitor sites
A full Peninsula day with wildlife, fynbos, picnic and beach stops, the Cape of Good Hope and lighthouse viewpoints. The Flying Dutchman Funicular removes most of the uphill walk from the main car park towards the old lighthouse. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor national park, viewpoints & funicular
Bring SA ID for local rates. Baboons are present, parking becomes busy and the beaches have no lifeguards; do not swim at Diaz Beach because of strong rip currents.
- Hours
- Daily · gate and funicular times vary seasonally
Nature Reserves, Gardens & Picnics
Victoria Rd, between Camps Bay and Llandudno- Price
- SA residents R44 adult · R22 child aged 2–11
- Ages
- All ages
A sheltered coastal picnic and braai site tucked among granite boulders, with small coves, clear water and views back towards the Twelve Apostles. Until 31 October 2026, SA residents pay R44 per adult and R22 per child aged 2–11.
- Setting
- Outdoor coastal picnic, braai & swimming
No lifeguard; swim at your own risk. No alcohol, music, gazebos, freestanding braais or gas cookers, and bring your own braai grid.
- Hours
- Seasonal daily access · check before travelling
Opening times & practical notes
Entry is first come, first served and an indemnity form is required for picnic-site visitors.
Nature Reserves, Gardens & Picnics
Tokai Rd, Tokai- Price
- SA residents R44 adult · R22 child aged 2–11
- Ages
- All ages
A shady family picnic site beneath tall trees, with fixed braais and space for children to play close to the tables. Until 31 October 2026, SA residents pay R44 per adult and R22 per child aged 2–11.
- Setting
- Outdoor forest picnic & braai area
Baboons sometimes enter the site: keep food packed away when they are nearby and never feed them. Use the fixed braai facilities.
- Hours
- Daily · check current gate hours
Opening times & practical notes
Entry is first come, first served and an indemnity form is required for picnic-site visitors.
Nature Reserves, Gardens & Picnics
Totius St, Welgemoed- Price
- R40 adult · R20 child aged 3–17 · under-3s free
- Ages
- All ages · trail difficulty varies
A compact urban reserve with a network of interlinking walking trails, picnic tables and huge views across the city towards Table Mountain, Robben Island and False Bay. The 2026/27 City tariff is R40 for adults, R20 for ages 3–17 and free for under-3s. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor nature reserve & walking trails
- Hours
- Daily · check current gate hours
Nature Reserves, Gardens & Picnics
Verster Ave, Somerset West- Price
- R30 adult · R20 child aged 3–17 · under-3s free
- Ages
- All ages · trail difficulty varies
A beautiful fynbos reserve on the Helderberg slopes, with shaded picnic lawns, bontebok, birdlife and trails ranging from an easy family wander to serious mountain routes. The 2026/27 City tariff is R30 for adults, R20 for ages 3–17 and free for under-3s. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor nature reserve, trails & picnic lawns
- Hours
- Daily · gate times vary seasonally
Nature Reserves, Gardens & Picnics
Grand Central Precinct, 2 Park Ln, Century City- Price
- R30
- Hours
- daily 7:30–7pm Oct–Apr and 7:30–5:30pm May–Sep, except 25 December
A wetland reserve with birdlife, boardwalks and a shorter route that's pram-friendly. Entrance R30 adult · R20 child or pensioner; combo with a 30-minute boat ride R90 adult · R80 child or pensioner. Boat bookings are essential.
- Setting
- Outdoor
Opening times & practical notes
Open daily 7:30–7pm Oct–Apr and 7:30–5:30pm May–Sep, except 25 December.
Nature Reserves, Gardens & Picnics
Ou Kaapse Weg, Silvermine- Price
- SA residents R44 adult · R22 child
- Ages
- All ages · route difficulty varies
Silvermine is a mountain reserve with short walks, picnic and braai areas and the Silvermine reservoir. Until 31 October 2026, entry is R44 for SA-resident adults and R22 for children, or R200 and R100 for international visitors. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor mountain reserve
- Hours
- Gate 2: Mon–Sun 8–6pm · other open access points sunrise–sunset
Animals & Farms
Aquariums, wildlife centres, farmyards and animal encounters outings.Animals & Farms
Old Paarl Rd, Simondium, Paarl- Price
- SA residents R100 adult · R50 child
- Ages
- All ages
A sanctuary providing lifetime care to lions and other rescued big cats from abusive captive situations. Families view the animals without touching or performances; the sanctuary does not breed, trade or allow visitor-animal interaction. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor big-cat rescue sanctuary
A genuine sanctuary visit: observation only, with no cub petting, breeding, performances or direct interaction.
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9:30–5pm · closed 25 Dec
Animals & Farms
Manor House Alpaca Stud, Suid-Agter-Paarl Rd, Paarl- Price
- Barn tour R100 adult · R70 child · alpaca walk R150 pp
- Ages
- All ages · under-3s free on barn tours
A working farm with 300+ alpacas, a petting zoo (llamas, dromedaries, donkeys, angora goats), a weaving studio, a jungle gym and a coffee shop with Table Mountain views.
- Setting
- Indoor & outdoor farm visit
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9:30–5:30pm · closed 25 Dec
Opening times & practical notes
Costs: Petting zoo R20pp · feed at R20 a serving; Barn tour R100 adult / R70 child, under 3 free; Alpaca walk R150pp, minimum 2 people, daily between 10am–4pm.
Free-to-visit sanctuary for rescued farm animals where families can wander the property, pick up a food tray to connect with the animals, see artworks by Pigcasso and Baanksy, and stop at the plant-based café or wine tasting.
The official site currently gives both 9–4pm and 9–5pm closing times; confirm before a late-afternoon visit.
Opening times & practical notes
Open daily; admission is free, donations are welcome and no booking is required.
Cape Town's world-class aquarium, home to over 8,000 animals — penguins, sharks, turtles and the famous kelp forest — with touch pools and daily feedings the kids love, plus a playroom and puppet shows. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor aquarium
Animals & Farms
8FC8+6F Melkbossie F.A.S., South Africa, Cape Farms, Cape Town, 7441- Price
- R20 pp · activities extra
- Ages
- All ages
Farm-animal sanctuary with animal feeding and petting, a kids' play area, pony rides, putt-putt and a small coffee shop.
- Setting
- Outdoor farm sanctuary
- Food
- Yes · Small coffee shop · outside food surcharge R50 pp
Opening times & practical notes
Entry R20 pp; approved animal food is sold on site. Bring-your-own snacks and drinks attract a R50 pp surcharge, and groups of 10 or more must pre-book.
Animals & Farms
Cnr R304 & R101, Muldersvlei- Price
- R90 adult · R60 child aged 2–15 · under-2s free
- Ages
- All ages
Wildlife-awareness centre between Klapmuts and Stellenbosch where kids meet giraffes and other African animals. Feeding sessions happen on weekends. Children (2–15) R60, adults R90.
- Setting
- Outdoor wildlife centre
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9–5pm · closed 25 Dec
Animals & Farms
Valley Rd, Hout Bay- Price
- R145 adult · R60 child aged 3–18 · under-3s free
- Ages
- All ages
Africa's largest bird park — walk-through aviaries and a monkey jungle where the squirrel-monkey feeding is a highlight. Adults R145, children 3–18 R60, under-3s free — ask about memberships.
- Setting
- Outdoor aviaries
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9–5pm · last entry 4pm
Animals & Farms
R44, Klapmuts- Price
- Published rate R88 adult · R49 child · under-3s free
- Ages
- All ages
The former Butterfly World, now an exotic-animal sanctuary — monkeys, meerkats, birds and reptiles. Children under 3 free, 3+ R49, adults R88.
- Setting
- Indoor & outdoor sanctuary
The official website still labels these as 2024 day rates; confirm before travelling if price is important.
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9–5pm · last entry 4:30pm · closed 25 Dec
Trains, Boats & Sightseeing
Short boat trips, train rides and sightseeing experiences that feel like an adventure.Trains, Boats & Sightseeing
V&A Waterfront canal, Battery Park- Price
- R100 pp for 30 minutes · under-4s R50
- Ages
- All ages
Pedal boats on the V&A canal — a gentle paddle for little skippers. Daytime Pedal: R100 per person (30 mins of canal cruising). Little Adventurers: R50 for kids under 4, free on your birthday. Summer (Oct–Apr): open daily 10am–6pm. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor canal activity
Weather-dependent; winter opening also depends on demand.
- Hours
- Oct–Apr daily 10–6pm · May–Sep weekdays 11–5pm, weekends 10–5pm
Three operators run short cruises from Hout Bay Harbour to the Cape fur seal colony at Duiker Island. Trips take roughly 40–45 minutes and are suitable for a quick family outing, although all departures depend on weather and sea conditions. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor boat trips
- Hours
- Daily departures · operator and weather dependent
Opening times & practical notes
Prices currently range from R130–R160 per adult and R65–R80 per child; compare the operator cards below before booking.
The original operator, running since 1972, and the only glass-bottomed boat from Hout Bay. R130 adults (14+) · R65 children (up to 13). Bookings via WhatsApp.
- Setting
- Outdoor boat trip
- Hours
- Daily departures · times vary
Trains, Boats & Sightseeing
81 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay- Price
- R160 adult · R80 child under 12
- Ages
- All ages
A stable catamaran trip from Hout Bay Harbour to the Duiker Island seal colony, lasting about 45 minutes. Tickets are R160 for adults and R80 for children under 12, with a bar on board.
- Setting
- Outdoor boat trip
Needs a minimum of 20 people, so phone the day before to confirm the trip is running.
- Hours
- Daily departures · confirm the current time
Trains, Boats & Sightseeing
60 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay- Price
- R150 adult · R75 child under 14
- Ages
- All ages
A purpose-built boat with open decks for 360° views on a roughly 40-minute cruise to the Duiker Island seal colony. Tickets are R150 for adults and R75 for children under 14.
- Setting
- Outdoor boat trip
- Hours
- Daily departures · confirm the current time
Several operators run short, family-friendly cruises around the V&A Waterfront’s working harbour. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor harbour cruises
- Hours
- Daily departures · operator and weather dependent
Trains, Boats & Sightseeing
Jetty below the Two Oceans Aquarium, V&A Waterfront- Price
- R89 adult online · R60 child 4–17 · family of four R285
- Ages
- Family-friendly · child fare ages 4–17
A gentle 25–30-minute open-air cruise through the working harbour with commentary about its maritime history and close-up views of ships, seals and landmarks such as the Clock Tower, Bascule Bridge and SAS Somerset. Boats usually depart every 30 minutes. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor harbour cruise
Weather-dependent; call on the day if conditions look uncertain.
- Hours
- Daily · departures roughly every 30 minutes
Trains, Boats & Sightseeing
Shop 7, Quay 5, V&A Waterfront- Price
- Adult fare shown at booking · ages 3–11 half price · under-3s free
- Ages
- All ages
A relaxed 30-minute cruise aboard the 40-seater Dawn around the Old Harbour and International Docks, with guides sharing stories about the working port while families look for seals and seabirds. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor harbour cruise
Trips only stop for gales or storms; take motion-sickness medication beforehand if needed.
- Hours
- Available year-round · departure times vary
Active Adventures
Climbing, surfing, rides, obstacle courses and active outings for children who want to move.Ride a wheeled toboggan down the 1.25km rail track, controlling your own speed. Rides start at R100 and children under 3 may not ride.
- Setting
- Outdoor toboggan track
Closed when raining.
- Hours
- Mon–Fri 11–6pm · Sat & Sun 9–6pm · public & school holidays 9–6pm
Opening times & practical notes
Open Mon–Fri 11–6pm and weekends, public holidays and school holidays 9–6pm, weather permitting.
Active Adventures
1 Hout Bay Main Rd, Constantia Nek- Price
- Courses from R170
- Ages
- 3+ years · courses have age and height limits
Treetop obstacle courses and zip-lines in the forest, graded from little-kid easy to properly hard. Acro-Twigs (ages 3–6) R170; Monkey Moves (7+) R210; Swinging Tarzan R250; High Flying (9+) R310–R360; combos with the 100m big zip R260–R300; zip only R110.
- Setting
- Outdoor treetop courses
- Hours
- Wed–Sun 9–6pm Sep–Apr · 9–5pm May–Aug
Opening times & practical notes
Open Wed–Sun 9am–6pm (9am–5pm May–Aug). Book ahead.
An 18-hole outdoor putt-putt course at Lourensford Wine Estate, alongside the estate's restaurants, weekend market and other family activities — a relaxing afternoon under the trees.
- Setting
- Outdoor putt-putt course
Those are the summer trading hours — phone ahead in winter.
- Booking
- Book on 082 560 3866
Opening times & practical notes
Summer trading hours are Tues–Sun 10–5pm; closed Mon.
Active Adventures
21 York Rd, Muizenberg- Price
- R700 private children's lesson · private groups from R600 pp
- Ages
- Under-14 private lessons · ages 14+ individual or group lessons
SurfXCape offers calm, personalised surf lessons at Muizenberg, including private beginner lessons specifically for children under 14. Each younger child has their own instructor, and the 90-minute lesson includes a surfboard and wetsuit. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor beach activity
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 8–5pm
Opening times & practical notes
Open Mon–Sun 8–5pm; booking essential.
Active Adventures
72 Beach Rd, Muizenberg- Price
- Under-10 lesson R460 · Learn 2 Surf from R770/month
- Ages
- Under-10 private lessons · group lessons for older children and adults
The blue-and-white striped building at Surfer's Corner. Their "Freezer" lessons are for children under 10. Also runs excellent kids' holiday camps. Freezer private lesson (under 10): R460/hour · 5-lesson package R1 840. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor beach activity
Wetsuits are included in lessons — the water is cold year-round. Winter (April–September) actually has the better conditions.
- Hours
- Lesson times by booking
Active Adventures
34 Beach Rd, Muizenberg- Price
- R800 group lesson · R1 000 private family group
- Ages
- 5+ years
Beginner-friendly Muizenberg surf school offering group and private lessons with a board and wetsuit included. The two-hour group lesson costs R800 and includes one coached hour plus one practice hour; a private family-group lesson costs R1 000.
- Setting
- Outdoor beach activity
Wetsuits are included in lessons — the water is cold year-round. Winter (April–September) actually has the better conditions.
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 8–5pm · closed 25–26 Dec & 1 Jan
Opening times & practical notes
Open daily 8–5pm except 25–26 December and 1 January.
Active Adventures
56 Tarentaal Rd, Joostenberg Vlakte- Price
- R190 age 3–12 · R60 age 13+ · under-3s free
- Ages
- All ages · most rides 3–12 years
Children's amusement park with indoor and outdoor play, unlimited rides for ages 3–12, train rides, zip-lines, rowboats, jungle gyms and seasonal water play.
- Setting
- Indoor & outdoor play park
Outdoor rides close for the day when rain is predicted. Water activities operate October–April.
- Hours
- Sat & Sun 10–4pm · public & listed school holidays 10–4pm
Opening times & practical notes
Entry is R190 for ages 3–12, R60 for ages 13+ and free for under-3s; the rainy-day child rate is R100 when rides close.
Active Adventures
25 Bottelary Rd, Stellenbosch- Price
- R20 entry · R200 dino walk · R150 rides · R350 combo
- Ages
- Toddlers to primary school
A self-guided dinosaur trail with life-sized moving and static models, plus a nesting area for photos, a playpark with rides and an eatery to sit at. Kids answer questions along the dino walk and get their own little dinosaur at the end.
- Setting
- Outdoor attraction
They also have five outdoor lapas for birthday parties, booked through their website.
- Hours
- Sat–Sun 10–6pm, and 11–6pm on public holidays and in the school holidays
Opening times & practical notes
Entry is R20, the dino walk R200 and the rides R150, or R350 for the combo; under-18-months are free and individual playpark rides are R40–R60. It is cashless — card only, no cash. Open Sat–Sun 10–6pm, and 11–6pm on public holidays and in the school holidays; weekday group visits by arrangement.
Museums, Science & Culture
Hands-on science, natural history, planetariums and cultural outings for curious children.Museums, Science & Culture
25 Queen Victoria St, Gardens- Price
- Museum R60 local adult · R40 child aged 5–17 · Planetarium extra
- Ages
- All ages
Natural-history museum with the Whale Well, African dinosaurs and other open galleries, plus a separately ticketed digital Planetarium. Local museum entry is R60 for adults and R40 for children aged 5–17; under-5s enter free. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor museum & planetarium
Some museum sections are temporarily closed for maintenance. An Iziko South African Museum ticket currently includes same-day entry to several other open Iziko museums, but not the Planetarium.
- Hours
- Museum Mon–Fri 9–5pm · Sat–Sun 8:30–4pm in winter
Museums, Science & Culture
370B Main Rd, Observatory- Price
- R95 adult or age 3–18 · family of four R340
- Ages
- All ages · under-3s free
A hands-on hub with more than 250 interactive science exhibits under one roof.
- Setting
- Indoor science centre
- Hours
- Mon–Sat 9–4:30pm · public holidays 10–4:30pm · closed Sun
Opening times & practical notes
Entry is R95 for adults and ages 3–18, R45 for pensioners or R340 for a family of four.
Museums, Science & Culture
Silo District, South Arm Rd, V&A Waterfront- Price
- R265 adult · under-18s free · free Wed 10–1pm for African citizens
- Ages
- All ages · best with children who enjoy looking and talking about art
A vast museum of contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora inside the converted Grain Silo, with dramatic architecture and changing exhibitions across multiple floors. Admission is R265 for adults and free for under-18s with ID. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor contemporary-art museum
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 10–6pm · last entry 5:30pm
Museums, Science & Culture
Cnr Castle & Darling St, City Centre- Price
- R50 adult · R25 child aged 5–17
- Ages
- All ages · strongest fit for school-age children
Cape Town's 17th-century pentagonal fort and oldest surviving colonial building, now interpreted through museums and exhibitions covering military, cultural and enslaved histories. Families can explore the courtyards, ramparts and former rooms, with guided tours running daily.
- Setting
- Indoor and outdoor heritage site
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9–4pm · closed Christmas Day & New Year's Day
Opening times & practical notes
Entry is R50 for adults and R25 for children aged 5–17; open Mon–Sun 9–4pm.
Museums, Science & Culture
4 Steenberg Rd, Tokai- Price
- Under-18s free · African nationals R220 · students aged 18–24 R110
- Ages
- All ages
A contemporary African-art museum with spacious galleries, striking architecture and a Sculpture Garden that gives children room to experience art outdoors. Under-18s enter free; African-national adults pay R220 and students aged 18–24 pay R110. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor galleries & outdoor Sculpture Garden
- Hours
- Wed–Sat 10–5pm · Sun 10–4pm · public holidays 10–4pm · closed Mon–Tue
Creative Outings
Pottery painting, gemstone collecting, crafts and other outings where children make or discover something.Creative Outings
Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront- Price
- Scratch bags R40–R175 · cup R115 · Cave Golf R45
- Ages
- All ages · young children need supervision
Gemstone spot where kids sift through thousands of polished gemstones and fill a bag with their favourites.
- Setting
- Indoor gemstone experience & Cave Golf
- Hours
- Mon–Fri 9–4:45pm · Sat & Sun 9–5pm · public holidays 9–5pm
Opening times & practical notes
You can also play Cave Putt-Putt there, R45 per game.
Creative Outings
Simon's Town- Price
- Scratch bags R40–R175 · cup R115 · Cave Golf R45
- Ages
- All ages · young children need supervision
Gemstone spot where kids sift through thousands of polished gemstones and fill a bag with their favourites.
- Setting
- Indoor gemstone experience & Cave Golf
- Hours
- Mon–Fri 8:30–4:45pm · Sat & Sun 9–5pm · public holidays 9–5pm
Opening times & practical notes
You can also play Cave Putt-Putt there, R45 per game.
Creative Outings
4080 Hout Bay Main Rd, Hout Bay- Price
- R45 studio fee plus ceramic item
- Ages
- All ages
This combines ceramic painting with a landscaped garden and outdoor playground, so children can move between a table activity and active play. The R45 studio fee includes three paints, tools, glazing and firing, and you then pay for the ceramic item you choose. Read more
- Setting
- Ceramic-painting studio, garden & outdoor playground
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9–5pm
- Booking
- Essential at busy times
Opening times & practical notes
Open Mon–Sun 9–5pm, and book ahead for weekends and school holidays.
Creative Outings
Groot Parys, Jan van Riebeeck Dr, Paarl- Price
- R45 studio fee plus ceramic item
- Ages
- All ages
Children and adults choose and paint a ready-made ceramic item at this Groot Parys studio, which also has pockets of outdoor play space and a family restaurant. The R45 studio fee includes three paints, tools, glazing and firing, and you then pay for the ceramic you choose.
- Setting
- Ceramic-painting studio & outdoor play spaces
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9–5pm
- Booking
- Essential at busy times
Moving soon — this branch is leaving 199 Bree St. Phone to check where they are before travelling.
Clay Café in the City Centre is a hands-on indoor option where children and adults choose and paint a ready-made ceramic item while having tapas or a drink. The R45 studio fee includes three paints, tools, glazing and firing, and you then pay for the ceramic you choose.
- Setting
- Indoor ceramic-painting studio
- Hours
- Tue 11am–5pm · Wed–Fri 11am–10pm · Sat 9am–10pm · Sun 9am–6pm · closed Mon
- Booking
- Essential at busy times
Creative Outings
Wood Drive Lifestyle Centre, Sunningdale- Price
- Current sessions R220–R260
- Ages
- Toddlers & preschoolers
Themed sensory and messy-play sessions with immersive, open-ended activity stations for toddlers and preschoolers. Sessions usually run twice a month at The Eventbox and must be booked online.
- Setting
- Indoor sensory & messy play
- Booking
- Essential · book online
Creative Outings
Farm 528, R44, Stellenbosch- Price
- Play from R70 p/h · crafts R140 p/h
- Ages
- Play 8 months–5 years · crafts 4–10 years
Play By Nature in Stellenbosch is a proper outdoor play café where teachers guide open-ended play and creative activities while you stay for coffee or food. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor
- Supervision
- Teacher-guided play
- Hours
- Bookable sessions · see live schedule
- Booking
- Essential
Creative Outings
Unit 1, Gateway Park, 39 Bell Cres, Westlake- Price
- R140 p/h · extra hours R100
- Ages
- Play sessions 1–5 years
Indoor studio offering teacher-guided open-ended play, workshops and a small playgroup. Once-off pop-in play sessions for ages 1–5 cost R140 for one hour, with additional hours at R100 each.
- Setting
- Indoor studio
- Booking
- Book online
Indoor Attractions
Play parks, trampolines, ninja courses, skating, arcades, bowling and mixed indoor entertainment.Indoor Attractions
25 Stegman Rd, Claremont- Price
- R160 p/h · parent + toddler R200
- Ages
- All ages · height restrictions apply
Large indoor trampoline and activity park with foam pits, dodgeball and a ninja course. One-hour access is R160; the parent-and-toddler ticket is R200, and activity-specific height rules apply. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor
- Hours
- Term: Tue–Thu 11–7pm · Fri–Sat 9–8pm · Sun 9–6pm
Indoor Attractions
10 Honeywell Rd, Kirstenhof- Price
- Under 1 free · under 2 R40 p/h · 2+ R90 p/h · grip socks required
- Ages
- 0–12 years
PlayStation by Rush suits ages 2–12 and is one of the bigger indoor options, with a little city, climbing, slides, a high-line course, a pump track and trained staff watching the play areas. There is a full family restaurant where you can sit down for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor
- Supervision
- Trained staff monitor the play areas
- Can I see them?
- The café has a clear line of sight to the play areas
- Hours
- Term: Mon–Fri 10–6pm · Sat 9–6pm · Sun 9–5pm
- Booking
- Recommended · book ahead for weekends and holidays
Indoor Attractions
The Warehouse, Black River Park, Observatory- Price
- Under 4 R80 p/h · 4+ R160 p/h
- Ages
- Under-4 area · main park 4+
Large indoor ninja-warrior obstacle park with a dedicated Mini Ninja area for under-4s and the main course for ages 4+. One-hour entry is R80 for Mini Ninja and R160 for Total Ninja. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor
- Hours
- Mon–Fri 10–6pm · Sat & Sun 10–5pm
Indoor Attractions
Oude Molen Eco Village, Alexandra Rd, Pinelands- Price
- From R55 p/h · 0–4 months free
- Ages
- Babies–6 years
Oude Molen Eco Village spot with indoor and outdoor play areas, pony rides, and farm animals across the road — best for ages 1–6. 0–4 months free; 5–11 months R55 p/h; 1–2 years R60 p/h; 3+ R65 p/h.
- Setting
- Indoor & outdoor
- Hours
- Term: Tue–Sun 9–5pm · holidays: Mon–Sun 9–5pm
Opening times & practical notes
Open 9am–5pm, closed Mondays during term.
Indoor Attractions
17 Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront- Price
- From R55 p/h · full play from R120 p/h
- Ages
- 2–8+ years · activity restrictions apply
Indoor playground zones at the Watershed with child-minders on the floor to help. Under-4s R55 p/h; ages 4+ R120 p/h or R205 for 2 hours, with extra options in the holidays. Their grip socks required.
- Setting
- Indoor
This is a pop-up and the run ends on 30 January 2027.
- Hours
- Mon–Sat 10–6pm · Sun 10–5:30pm
Indoor Attractions
Cnr Burton & Aurora St, Durbanville- Price
- See current play pricing
- Ages
- 0–2 toddler zone · main park 3–18 · adults welcome
Multi-age indoor play arena with trampolines, climbing, a Lego room and a dedicated 0–2 zone. Toddler Town is for ages 0–2; the main park is for ages 3–18 and adults may participate. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor
- Hours
- Term: Tue–Fri 10–6pm · weekends & holidays 9–6pm
Opening times & practical notes
Closed Monday during school term; open Tue–Fri 10–6pm and weekends and holidays 9–6pm.
Indoor Attractions
3 Tanzanite Cres, Kraaifontein- Price
- 0–12 months R60 p/h · 1+ R120 p/h
- Ages
- Babies, children & participating adults
Closing down at the end of August 2026.
Indoor adventure park with climbing, jumping zones, slides, skyrides and 5D movies. Babies 0–12 months pay R60 p/h and ages 1+ pay R120 p/h; Playalot grip socks cost R50. During school term the Durbanville branch is open Wed–Sun 9–5pm; during school holidays it opens daily 9–5pm. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor
- Hours
- Term: Wed–Sun 9–5pm · holidays: Mon–Sun 9–5pm
Indoor Attractions
LG 02, Winelands Square Shopping Centre, cnr Sandwyk St & Old Paarl Rd, Paarl- Price
- Ages 0–3 R250 p/h with adult · ages 4–7 R160 p/h
- Ages
- 0–7 years
Mini Ninja is a supervised indoor adventure space for children aged 0–7, with soft play, mini obstacle courses and interactive zones. Read more
- Setting
- Indoor supervised adventure play
- Hours
- Mon–Thu & Sun 9–7pm · Fri & Sat 9–8pm
Wine Farms & Estate Outings
Wine estates where the outing works for children too — play spaces, farm experiences, picnics and family-friendly food.Wine Farms & Estate Outings
Suid-Agter-Paarl Rd, Paarl- Price
- Ice-cream tasting R75 · estate entry free
- Ages
- All ages · tasting passport from 12 years
This farm destination spreads restaurants, tastings and artisan stops across lawns under old oak trees. Families can combine wood-fired pizza with chocolate and tea experiences, shops, weekend activities and the estate's walking and mountain-bike trails.
- Food
- Yes · Restaurants, pizza, chocolate & tastings
- Supervision
- No childminder advertised · adults supervise
- Can I see them?
- La Grapperia's playground is in sight of the outdoor seating
- Play fee
- No separate play fee, check menu before going
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9–5pm
- Booking
- Book La Grapperia at least one day ahead · tastings first come, first served
Opening times & practical notes
Open Mon–Sun 9–5pm; individual artisans keep their own hours.
Wine Farms & Estate Outings
Langverwacht Rd, Kuils River- Price
- Picnic baskets: child R110 · adult options from R650 for two
- Ages
- All ages
It has big open lawns for playing and is great for picnics. The tree-shaded picnic lawns slope down to the lake, with pre-booked adult, vegetarian, braai and children's baskets, while the Manor House restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Read more
- Food
- Yes · Restaurant, pre-booked picnics & braai baskets
This listing is for the lawns and picnics, not a confirmed dedicated play area. No outside food, drinks, cooler boxes or pets are allowed on the picnic lawns.
- Hours
- Restaurant: Mon–Sat 7:30am–11pm · Sun 7:30am–5pm · summer picnics 12–5pm
- Booking
- Essential for picnics · restaurant booking recommended
Wine Farms & Estate Outings
Nitida Wines, Durbanville- Ages
- All ages · play area best for younger children
- Hours
- Winter Wed–Sun 9–4pm · summer Mon–Sat 9–4pm, Sun & public holidays 9–3pm
Tables at Nitida is a relaxed family bistro with a spacious lawn, a designated kiddies' play area and children's menus. Read more
- Food
- Yes · Restaurant, children's menu & lawn picnics
- Setting
- Outdoor kiddies' play area & lawn
- Supervision
- Adults supervise · no childminder advertised
- Can I see them?
- Lawn and picnic seating are beside the play area
- Play fee
- No separate play fee, check menu before going
- Booking
- Book ahead for lawn or picnic seating · weather-dependent
Wine Farms & Estate Outings
Tygerberg Valley Rd, Durbanville- Ages
- All ages · play area best for younger children
- Hours
- Breakfast Mon–Sun 8:30–11am · lunch Mon–Sun 12–3pm · dinner Wed–Sat 6–10pm
The Tangram Restaurant overlooks Table Mountain and Table Bay and has an outdoor children's play area. It serves breakfast and lunch daily, with dinner Wed–Sat; the wider estate also offers tastings, pairings and a free self-guided visitor centre.
- Food
- Yes · The Tangram Restaurant & children's pairing
- Setting
- Outdoor play area & winery visitor centre
- Booking
- Restaurant booking recommended
Wine Farms & Estate Outings
Annandale Rd, Lynedoch- Ages
- All ages · play area best for younger children
- Hours
- Tue–Sun 8–3:30pm · closed Mon
Bertus Basson and Drikus Brink's family restaurant at Annandale Wines has a broad shaded lawn, a children's play area and a small collection of farm animals. The menu centres on South African produce, with breakfast and lunch served Tues–Sun.
- Food
- Yes · Breakfast, lunch & South African farm cooking
- Setting
- Outdoor lawn, play area & farm animals
- Booking
- Recommended
Wine Farms & Estate Outings
R44, Stellenbosch- Price
- Play access R100 for 2 hours · children's pizza pairing R115
- Ages
- All ages · play access charged for ages 2–12
This historic estate combines daily tastings and dining with a bike park, pump track and children's play area. The weather-dependent family market adds food stalls, live atmosphere and changing children's sensory-play activities on Saturdays and Sundays. Read more
- Food
- Yes · Market food & estate dining
- Can I see them?
- Lawns and play areas surround De Blaauwe Kitchen
- Play fee
- R100 entry · bike park pass is 2 hours · play areas ages 2–12
The market is weather permitting and no pets or outside food are allowed.
- Hours
- Estate: Mon–Sun 10–5pm · market Sat–Sun 9–5pm
- Booking
- Book De Blaauwe Kitchen directly · market is walk-in
Wine Farms & Estate Outings
Flamingo St, Stellenbosch- Hours
- Brunch Tues–Sun 9–11am · lunch Wed–Sun 12–3pm
- Food
- Yes · Traditional Boerebraai brunch & lunch
This relaxed family wine farm is known for its traditional Boerebraai, open lawns and informal farm atmosphere. Brunch is served Tues–Sun 9–11am and lunch Wed–Sun 12–3pm; booking is essential for the restaurant.
- Setting
- Outdoor farm lawns
- Booking
- Essential
Wine Farms & Estate Outings
Bottelary Rd, Stellenbosch- Price
- Wonderdal 1 hour R100–R160 · 2 hours R140–R210
- Ages
- 5–13 years
Hazendal's Wonderdal is a fully supervised indoor-and-outdoor edutainment centre where children aged 5–13 explore seven interactive learning zones and the outdoor Wildlands. One-hour sessions cost R100–R160 and two-hour sessions R140–R210, depending on the day and school term.
- Food
- Yes · Multiple estate restaurants & family food
- Hours
- Mon–Sun 9–5pm
- Booking
- Book Wonderdal online
Opening times & practical notes
Open Mon–Sun 9–5pm; booking online is recommended.
Seasonal Picking & Farm Experiences
Fruit picking and other seasonal farm outings.Mooiberge is the iconic scarecrow farm, where you can pick your own strawberries, visit the farm stall and eat at the Thirsty Scarecrow restaurant. Picking runs from Oct–early Jan on weekends and public holidays from 9:30–4:30pm, and daily during the December school holidays. Read more
Seasonal Picking & Farm Experiences
Polkadraai Rd (M12), Stellenbosch- Price
- Picking from R60 · activities extra
- Ages
- All ages
Seasonal strawberry picking with tractor and pony rides, mini golf and play activities. Picking runs roughly September–January, daily 9–4pm, with entry from R60. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor farm
Strawberry picking is currently closed until around mid-September 2026.
- Hours
- Picking season daily 9–4pm · bike park daily 9–4pm
Seasonal Picking & Farm Experiences
Klapmuts–Simondium Rd, Paarl- Price
- Current U-Pick price on enquiry
- Ages
- All ages
Farm shop selling fresh blueberries, smoothies, coffee and blueberry products on the Back family's Sonop farm. Read more
- Setting
- Outdoor farm & farm shop
U-Pick is seasonal; the official website does not state that picking is currently available.
- Hours
- Shop: Mon–Fri 8–4:30pm · listed U-Pick hours Sat–Sun 8–4pm
Seasonal Picking & Farm Experiences
Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch- Price
- Farm-shop and restaurant prices vary
- Ages
- All ages
Family-run berry farm in the Banhoek Valley with a farm shop and restaurant overlooking the mountains. The official website is not currently advertising pick-your-own berry sessions, so confirm directly before making the trip for picking.
- Setting
- Indoor restaurant & outdoor farm setting
Pick-your-own berries are not currently advertised on the official website.
- Hours
- Check current hours before travelling