Gardens, Harbours & Easy Wanders in Cape Town

Fun bike track for kids to ride on. It is part of a network of restaurants and stores on the estate.

Food

Yes · on site

No dogs anywhere on the estate. Parking is free for the first 30 minutes, then R10.

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

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

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

Food

Yes · on site

Working harbour where you can watch the seals and the fishing boats come in. Has restaurants you can eat at too.

Food

Yes · on site

Scenic, pram-friendly strolls around the V&A Waterfront canals and harbour, with lots for little ones to watch. There are free playgrounds along the way — Kids Ahoy beside the Amphitheatre for ages 4 to 12, one outside the Victoria Wharf food court and another by the Clock Tower.

Food

Yes · on site

The big one in Hout Bay: a well-stocked nursery in a leafy setting, with a children's playground and the Roots Farm Shoppe café on site — so you can let them loose while you browse, then sit down for a toastie and a coffee. Read more

Setting

Outdoor

Childminders are on duty in the play park, and the café overlooks it.

Smaller and more specialised, strong on trees and hedging, with helpful staff and good prices. They host the First Fruits Farmers Market on the first Saturday of every month, 9–2pm.

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.