Paid outings

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

Closed Mon and Tue from 6 October until 1 December. Check the City's swimming-pool schedule before travelling, as opening dates and hours may change.

Hours

Wed–Fri 1–5pm · Sat & Sun 10–5pm · 6 October–1 December 2026 · peak-season hours from December

Large outdoor public pool in Newlands. The 2026/27 community-pool tariff is R9 for adults and R3 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.

Setting

Outdoor pool

Closed Mon and Tue from 6 October until 1 December. Check the City's swimming-pool schedule before travelling, as opening dates and hours may change.

Hours

Wed–Fri 1–5pm · Sat & Sun 10–5pm · 6 October–1 December 2026 · peak-season hours from December

Heated indoor historic baths in the city centre. The 2026/27 day tariff is R40 for adults and R23 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.

Setting

Indoor heated pool

Closed Mon and Tue from 6 October until 1 December. Check the City's swimming-pool schedule before travelling, as opening dates and hours may change.

Hours

Wed–Fri 1–5pm · Sat & Sun 10–5pm · 6 October–1 December 2026 · peak-season hours from December

The famous outdoor seawater-pool complex on the promenade, with a main pool, diving pool and children's pools. The 2026/27 day tariff is R39 for adults and R23 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.

Setting

Outdoor seawater pools

Closed Mon and Tue from 6 October until 1 December. Check the City's swimming-pool schedule before travelling, as opening dates and hours may change.

Hours

Wed–Fri 1–5pm · Sat & Sun 10–5pm · 6 October–1 December 2026 · peak-season hours from December

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

Closed Mon and Tue from 6 October until 1 December. Check the City's swimming-pool schedule before travelling, as opening dates and hours may change.

Hours

Wed–Fri 1–5pm · Sat & Sun 10–5pm · 6 October–1 December 2026 · peak-season hours from December

Indoor heated public pool in the Helderberg. The 2026/27 day tariff is R40 for adults and R23 for children under 16; children under 3 enter free.

Setting

Indoor heated pool

Closed Mon and Tue from 6 October until 1 December. Check the City's swimming-pool schedule before travelling, as opening dates and hours may change.

Hours

Wed–Fri 1–5pm · Sat & Sun 10–5pm · 6 October–1 December 2026 · peak-season hours from December

Beachfront summer favourite with three slides for different ages, lifeguards on duty and shaded seating — best for confident swimmers 4+ (no toddler pool). 1hr R110, 2hrs R140, full day R180, group-of-4 day pass R620, spectators R20. Read more

Setting

Outdoor water slides

likely not pram friendly/wheelchair friendly, fenced play, no food, shade, not dog friendly, seating near swimming zone. no set play area.

Hours

Tue–Fri 1:30–5:30pm · Sat & Sun 9:30–5:30pm · Term time, weather dependent · public and school holidays 9:30–5:30pm daily

Milnerton Waterpark is temporarily closed.

A summer favourite in Table View, with three child-friendly pools, water slides and lifeguards on duty. Bring a grid and make a day of it, since there are picnic spots and braai areas. Read more

Setting

Outdoor water park

No pets, alcohol or music.

Hours

Wed–Sun 8:30–5pm · Seasonal, Oct–Mar

Fantasy play villages, four water slides, splash pads, beach and rock pools and jumping castles. Under-5s have their own toddler splash pad and shallow beach-pool section; from 5 up they get the slides. Bring your own picnic, or there's a kiosk.

Setting

Outdoor water park

Food

Yes · Kiosk, or bring your own picnic

Parties: two-hour slots Tue–Sun. R150 per child, or R170 including a hot dog. Minimum 10 children.

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

Mon–Sun 8–6:30pm · Oct–Nov and Feb–Mar · Dec–Jan 7am–7:30pm

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

Mon–Sun 6am–6pm · Summer gate hours · funicular 9–5:30pm

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

Mon–Sun 8–6pm · Seasonal access · check before travelling

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

Mon–Sun 7–4pm

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

Mon–Fri 7:30–6pm · Sat & Sun 7:30–7pm · Sep–Apr · public holidays 7:30–7pm

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

Mon–Sun 7:30–5:30pm · Gate times vary seasonally

A wetland reserve with birdlife, boardwalks and a shorter route that's pram-friendly. Entrance R37 adult (12+) · Children R23 · pensioners (60+) R23; combo with a 30-minute boat ride R105 adult · R95 child or pensioner. Boat bookings are essential.

Setting

Outdoor

Boat rides: use with caution and need adult supervision.

Booking

Book boat rides ahead

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

Wide-open lawns, the Boomslang walkway and easy pram paths. A family favourite. SA residents: adults 18+ R110 (bring your ID or licence), children 6–17 R40, under-6s free, SA students R60, and over-60s free on Tuesdays except public holidays. Check for memberships.

Setting

Outdoor botanical garden

Hours

Mon–Sun 8–7pm · Sep–Mar · Apr–Aug 8–6pm

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

Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Hours stretch to 9–6pm over the school holidays.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9:30–6pm

Pony rides and riding lessons on Main Road, with gentle, well-cared-for horses and staff who are patient with nervous first-timers. Read more

Setting

Outdoor riding centre and petting area, with an indoor and outdoor café

Pony rides last about 10–15 minutes and need no booking — Mon 2:30–3:45pm, and Tues–Sat 9:30–10:45am and 2:30–3:45pm. They're for ages 2–10.

Hours

Mon 1:30–5:15pm · Tue–Fri 8:30–5:15pm · Sat 8:15–4pm · closed Sun

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. Visitors need to stay quiet around the animals. There is a small play area with swings and a slide.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9:30–5pm · closed 25 Dec

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

Barn tours leave every hour on the hour, with no booking needed. The jungle gym has no shade.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9:30–5:30pm · closed 25 Dec

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.

Setting

Indoor & outdoor farm sanctuary

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

Putt-putt is free. Pony rides run at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Hours

Tue–Sun 9–5pm · closed Mon

Booking

Pre-book groups of 10+

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

Creepy-crawly encounters run at 11am, 1pm and 3pm on weekends and in school holidays. No alcohol on the premises.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9–5pm · closed 25 Dec

A working farm with old-world charm: established trees, shaded forest walks, a bamboo grove, and hiking and mountain bike trails up past the vineyards to a panoramic viewpoint. Read more

Setting

Outdoor working farm, forest walks, playground and picnic areas

Open every day except Good Friday and Christmas Day. Dogs are welcome on a lead once registered, with a once-off permit from the Tea Garden. Animal feed is sold there too. Strawberry picking runs Oct–Dec, not on Sundays.

Hours

Mon–Sun 8–5pm

A 118-hectare working farm in the Van der Stel Pass Valley, about 90km from Cape Town, offering guided animal encounters with lions, cheetahs, meerkats, zebra and more. Read more

Setting

Outdoor working farm

Encounters are guided walking tours, private tours, cheetah runs and sunset game drives. Overnight guests pay a reduced rate. pram friendly, not wheelchair friendly, easy parking, no online bookings, no baby zone, no changing table, feeding friendly, no high chairs, no food, not dog friendly.

Hours

Mon–Sun 8–4:30pm

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

The monkey jungle is open 11:30–1pm and 2–3:30pm; leave bags outside, as the monkeys grab things. Pushcarts can be hired, and picnics are welcome.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9–5pm · last entry 4pm

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. Keepers give animal talks at 11am and 2pm on weekends and public holidays, and most of the sanctuary is under cover, so it works on a rainy day.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9–5pm · last entry 4:30pm · closed 25 Dec

Reptile park with guided crocodile-pond tours, an indoor snake exhibit, a weekend snake show at 12:10pm, catch-and-release fishing, rowboats, a children's play area and wood-fired pizza — plus crocodile cage diving for the brave. Activities are ticketed separately.

Setting

Indoor & outdoor reptile park

Crocodile cage diving is for ages 9+ and runs September–April. The snake-shaped cycle track suits ages 3–7; bring a bike or hire one.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9–5pm · closed 25 Dec

Booking

Book activities online

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

Pedal boating on the canals at Battery Park at the V&A Waterfront is a great fun activity with kids. It is free in the week of your birthday before 12pm (bring your ID). They are closed when the weather is not great.

Setting

Outdoor canal activity

easy parking, not pram or wheelchair friendly, feeding friendly, no food, no play zones, dog friendly.

Hours

Mon–Sun 11–4pm · closed in bad weather

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

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

Mon–Sun 9–3:45pm · Departures 9am, 9:45am, 10:30am and 3pm · also 12pm at weekends · weather permitting

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

Mon–Fri 8–5pm · Sat & Sun 8–4pm · Departure times vary

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

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

Mon–Sun 8–5pm · Departures roughly every 30 minutes

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

Mon–Sun 8:30–7pm · Office hours · departure times vary

A 30-minute harbour circuit on the 47ft double-decker Une Belle Vie, with Table Mountain behind the working docks and a cash bar on board. Scheduled departures currently run daily at 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm and 4:30pm; check in 20 minutes before sailing.

Setting

Outdoor double-decker harbour cruise

A minimum passenger count applies, and weather may change the route or departure.

Hours

Mon–Sun 11:30–4:30pm · departures through the day

The easiest family route to the top of Table Mountain. The cable car's floor rotates on the way up, so everyone gets the full view, and at the top there are easy, flat walking paths, dassies, a café and toilets. Read more

Setting

Outdoor mountain sightseeing

Strong wind, cloud or annual maintenance can suspend the Cableway at short notice, so check the live status on their site or app before you go. A ticket does not remove the boarding queue. Tickets are valid for seven days and refundable if the weather stops you, and buying anywhere but Webtickets risks a ticket that is not valid. Park at the bottom of Tafelberg Road and take the free shuttle. One-way tickets are R300 an adult and R165 a child, up or down, if you are walking the other leg. First car up is currently 8:30am and the last down is 7pm.

Hours

Mon–Sun 8:30–5pm · Weather permitting · times change seasonally

A 15-minute ride with four revolutions in a fully enclosed, air-conditioned cabin, rising 40 metres above the Waterfront for views of the harbour, city, Table Mountain and Robben Island. South African adults pay R180 with ID, ages 4–17 pay R95 and under-4s ride free. Read more

Setting

Enclosed observation wheel

Hours

Mon–Sun 10am–10pm · Sep–Apr · May–Aug Mon–Thu 11–9pm, Fri–Sat 10–10pm, Sun 10–9pm

Open-top hop-on, hop-off sightseeing across the Red City, Blue Mini Peninsula and Purple Constantia Valley routes, with more than 20 stops and unlimited rides for the ticket period. Read more

Setting

Open-top sightseeing bus

Plan one or two priority stops rather than trying to complete every loop with younger children.

Hours

Mon–Sun 8–5pm · Route timetables vary

Ride a wheeled toboggan down the 1.25km rail track, controlling your own speed. Rides start at R110 and children under 3 may not ride.

Setting

Outdoor toboggan track

Closed when raining. Children aged 3–7 ride with an adult aged 15 or older, and riders need to be 1.35m tall to ride alone. Entry and parking are free.

Hours

Mon–Fri 11–6pm · Sat & Sun 9–6pm · public & school holidays 9–6pm

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 · May–Aug 9–5pm

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

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

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 from May–October and warms up from November–April.

Hours

Mon–Sun 7–5:30pm · Lesson times by booking

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 from May–October and warms up from November–April.

Hours

Mon–Sun 8–5pm · closed 25–26 Dec & 1 Jan

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

Booking

Walk-in except selected special events

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

Fri 3–6pm · Sat & Sun 10–6pm · Public holidays 11–6pm · daily in school holidays 11–6pm

Indoor go-karting at Canal Walk, with six-, eleven- and fifteen-minute arrive-and-drive sessions. Drivers must be at least 1.6m tall and weigh no more than 120kg. There is also a racing simulator, plus a kiosk selling coffee, drinks and snacks.

Setting

Indoor karting track

Closed shoes are compulsory. Group racing packages are unavailable on weekends, school holidays and public holidays.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9am–9pm

Two outdoor dirt tracks about 45 minutes from town: a main track for adults and a separate kids’ track. Sessions run 8, 14 or 20 minutes, with group packages if you’re doing a party. Read more

Setting

Outdoor attraction

Hours

Sat & Sun 10–4pm · Thu–Fri on request · closed Mon and Wed

Two 18-hole courses on the promenade, with free parking next door. A single game is R48, or buy a three-game or ten-game ticket and use them whenever you like.

Setting

Outdoor putt-putt course

Hours depend on the weather and on loadshedding — if loadshedding starts after 6pm, the last tickets go an hour before it does. The three-game ticket is for one player.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9am–9pm

An easy course and a harder one, next to the beach and the water slides. A single game is R48, or buy a three-game or ten-game ticket and use them whenever you like.

Setting

Outdoor putt-putt course

School holidays run 9am–6pm. Hours depend on the weather and on loadshedding — if loadshedding starts after 6pm, the last tickets go an hour before it does. The three-game ticket is for one player.

Hours

Mon–Fri 10–4pm · Sat & Sun 9–6pm

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

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

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

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

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.

Setting

Indoor museum & planetarium

Iziko publishes conflicting weekend hours; phone before a weekend visit. The Planetarium has a separate ticket and show schedule.

Hours

Mon–Fri 9–5pm · confirm weekend hours with the museum

The most advanced digital planetarium in Africa, inside the Iziko South African Museum. Morning and afternoon shows take children on 360° virtual voyages through the universe — immersive, genuinely educational, and very reasonably priced. Works well for school outings.

Five million years back in time, 90 minutes north of Cape Town. A National Heritage Site with an interactive museum and guided tours of the actual dig site, where sabre-toothed cats, short-necked giraffes and ancient elephants have been unearthed. Read more

Food

Yes · Restaurant with a kiddies menu

Book the guided tour ahead — several visitors have arrived too late to join one.

Booking

Book the guided tour ahead

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

An art studio offering fluid bear painting, slime-making and tufting workshops for children and adults. Slime design sessions suit ages 4+, while younger children can join fluid bear workshops with a parent. Read more

Setting

Indoor art studio

Wear clothes that can get messy and arrive 15 minutes before your session.

Hours

Mon–Thu, Sat & Sun 10–4pm · Fri 10–12pm & 2–4pm

A process-art studio for children, where the point is the making rather than the finished thing. Lots of different mediums to explore, permission to paint the walls, and no instructions to follow — children experiment and make it entirely their own. Read more

Setting

Indoor process-art studio

Alongside free-play sessions there is an after-school club — ages 4–8 on Tuesdays, ages 5–10 on Thursdays — plus holiday clubs and parties.

Hours

Scheduled sessions; check the booking calendar for available dates and times

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

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

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

Clay Café in Century City 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

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

Hours

Scheduled sessions · dates and times vary

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

Tue–Sat 8:30–4:30pm · Sun 8:30–2:30pm · Sessions are booked

Booking

Essential

Indoor studio offering teacher-guided open-ended play, workshops and a small playgroup. Once-off pop-in play sessions for ages 8 months–5 years cost R140 for one hour, with additional hours at R100 each.

Setting

Indoor studio

Hours

Mon–Fri 8–4:30pm · Sessions are booked

Walk in, put on an apron, pick a canvas and paint — no booking, no time limit and no painting skill required. You get a choice of 12 canvas sizes, 45 colours of non-toxic acrylic paint on tap, easels, brushes and tools, with artists on hand if you want guidance. Read more

Setting

Indoor art studio

Hours

Mon–Sun 9–5pm

The Somerset West studio of the same walk-in painting idea, on Lourensford Wine Estate alongside the putt-putt, market and restaurants. Read more

Setting

Indoor art studio

Hours

Tue–Sat 9–5pm · Sun 10–3pm · Also open Mondays in school holidays

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

Mon–Fri 10–6pm · Sat 9–6pm · Sun 9–5pm · Term-time hours

Booking

Recommended · book ahead for weekends and holidays

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

Tue–Sun 9–5pm · Term-time hours · Mon–Sun 9–5pm in school holidays

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

Tue–Thu 11–7pm · Fri & Sat 9–8pm · Sun 9–6pm · Term-time hours

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

The Mini Ninja zone is next to the café, and Wipeout is for ages 8+.

Hours

Mon–Fri 10–6pm · Sat & Sun 10–5pm

Booking

Essential weekends & public holidays

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.

Setting

Indoor

Hours

Mon–Sat 10–6pm · Sun 10–5:30pm

A space-themed indoor play venue opening on Kloof Street, charging play admission by the hour. One hour is R195 per child, two hours R290, three hours R350 and an unlimited day pass R450. One adult comes in free with each child and additional adults are R50 each. Read more

Setting

Indoor play venue

Not open yet at the time of writing. Confirm the opening date, hours and address before travelling.

Hours

Opening hours not yet published

A large indoor adventure park in the Ipic Shopping Centre — the answer to a rainy Cape Town Saturday. Toddler Town is a gated area just for under-3s with mini slides, play houses and a carousel, staffed at the gate. Read more

Setting

Indoor

Grip socks are R49, or R25 if you trade in a pair, and a climbing harness is R49. An adult who is not playing pays R19. Play sessions start on the hour, and you can sign the waiver online before you go.

Hours

Tue–Fri 10–6pm · Sat & Sun 9–6pm · Term-time hours · school holidays 9–6pm

Booking

Recommended · especially weekends & holidays

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

Booking

Online booking available

Large indoor adventure park with trampolines, slides, a ninja course, go-karts and dedicated toddler activities, plus a pizzeria and Bootlegger coffee. The branch caters for all ages, though individual activities have height and age rules.

Setting

Indoor

Clip 'n Climb needs a height of at least 125cm. Cashless venue.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9am–9pm

Booking

Recommended · especially weekends & holidays

An indoor adventure park in Somerset Mall with a Toddler Town for the under-5s — toddler trampolines, interactive play and a soft play area for under-2s — and, for ages 5–13, indoor soccer, a ninja run, an interactive sports wall and putt-putt.

Setting

Indoor adventure park

Grip socks are required: bring your own non-slip socks or buy a pair at the front desk for R50. The park is cashless and no outside food or drink is allowed.

Hours

Mon–Thu 9–7pm · Fri & Sat 9–8pm · Sun 9–5pm · public holiday hours may vary

Booking

Book online · sessions start every 30 minutes

Indoor roller-skating rink with neon lights, a DJ and a proper retro disco feel. There's an arcade, pool tables and air hockey too, so kids who aren't skating still have something to do. Great rainy-day option, and especially good for older kids and tweens. Read more

Setting

Indoor

Hours

Mon–Thu & Sun 10–12pm & 1–3pm & 4–6pm · Fri & Sat 10–12pm & 1–3pm & 4–6pm & 7–9pm · 2-hour skating sessions

Different zones of inflatable play areas for ages 1–9. R130 for unlimited play time. Weekdays are school holidays only, 9am–2pm; it is usually closed during the week in term time.

Setting

Indoor

Adults can't go on the inflatables, and it is loud, because the blowers run all day.

Hours

Sat & Sun 9–6pm · Public holidays 9–3pm · weekdays in school holidays only, 9–2pm

The picnic lawns are open again for summer.

Buitenverwachting is an easy Constantia wine-farm outing with Coffee BloC for breakfast or lunch, a takeaway deli and broad lawns where families can enjoy picnic-style platters in the warmer months. Bring your own blanket; self-catering, lawn tables and pets are not allowed. Read more

Food

Yes · Coffee BloC, takeaway deli & picnic-style platters

Lawn picnics depend on the weather, and no self-catering is allowed — the platters are bought on the farm.

Hours

Mon–Sat 8–4pm · Coffee BloC kitchen closes 3pm · Sun closed

Booking

Coffee BloC booking advisable · wine-tasting tables essential

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

Fri 5–10pm · Sat & Sun 11–4pm · Market, seasonal

Booking

Check the market calendar · book restaurants directly

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

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

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

Their own website is offline, so book by phone or through the restaurant's Dineplan page.

Booking

Restaurant booking recommended

A historic Franschhoek estate that's far more than a tasting room. Beautifully kept gardens with roses, agapanthus and shaded lawns to wander, playgrounds for the children, an artisan bakery, a restaurant and deli, a gift shop and an art gallery.

Food

Yes · Artisanal bakery and garden café

Setting

Outdoor gardens, lawns and playgrounds

L'Ami Family Brasserie and the Spens food shop were closed for renovations when this was checked — the artisanal bakery and garden café were open. No pets.

Booking

Walk-in · book the bakery and café directly

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

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. In the bike park, helmets are compulsory, closed shoes are needed on the pump track and under-18s need a signed indemnity. The bike park is closed on Mondays.

Hours

Estate: Mon–Sun 10–5pm · market Sat–Sun 9–5pm

Booking

Book De Blaauwe Kitchen directly · market is walk-in

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.

Food

Yes · Traditional Boerebraai brunch & lunch

Setting

Outdoor farm lawns

Booking

Essential

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

Warwick's pre-booked gourmet picnics are served on the lawn, at picnic tables or in private forest pods, with a single-entry playground nearby. Children's picnic boxes for under-11s are R240 and are available Mon–Sun 11–3pm. Read more

Food

Yes · Pre-booked gourmet, plant-based & children's picnics

Hours

Mon–Sun 11–3pm · Picnics

Booking

Essential for picnics

The Grapes & Greens picnic lawn has umbrellas, blankets and a spacious children's play area with a jungle gym and sandpit. Pre-ordered picnic baskets are collected from the deli, while De Vliet Country Bistro serves breakfast, lunch and evening pizza. Read more

Food

Yes · Pre-booked picnics & De Vliet Country Bistro

Can I see them?

Seating near the kids' area

There is water play beside De Vliet Country Bistro, so pack a swimsuit on hot days.

Hours

Mon–Sun 8–7pm · Bistro 8–7pm · picnics 11–5pm

Booking

Picnic and bistro bookings recommended

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

Food

Yes · on site

Booking

Confirm this season’s picking dates, times and price before visiting

A working farm with old-world charm: established trees, shaded forest walks, a bamboo grove, and hiking and mountain bike trails up past the vineyards to a panoramic viewpoint. Read more

Setting

Outdoor working farm, forest walks, playground and picnic areas

Open every day except Good Friday and Christmas Day. Dogs are welcome on a lead once registered, with a once-off permit from the Tea Garden. Animal feed is sold there too. Strawberry picking runs Oct–Dec, not on Sundays.

Hours

Mon–Sun 8–5pm

A family flower farm in Ashton growing ranunculus and seasonal blooms alongside citrus, apricot, guava and macadamia orchards. Their flowers go to local markets, events and Spar. They are open for flower picking.

Setting

Outdoor flower farm and orchards

Ashton is about two hours from Cape Town, so this is a weekend-drive listing rather than a local one.

Hours

Flower picking on weekends

Pick your own roses in the gardens at Chart Farm, with views across the Constantia Valley. Pay per stem, then browse the farmstall for seasonal fruit, preserves and homemade treats. The café serves breakfast, lunch, cakes and tea, with a kids' menu. Read more

Setting

Outdoor rose garden and farm

Rose picking is seasonal and depends on the flowers available. Phone the farmstall before travelling to check picking conditions.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9–4pm

Booking

Café bookings required: 021 762 0067 or 079 684 8797 · high tea needs a week's notice

Open for strawberry picking, with tractor and pony rides, mini golf and play activities. Picking runs daily 9–4pm and costs R65 for a kids or small bucket and R80 for a big bucket. You can upgrade to include an activity as well — pony rides, tractor rides or mini golf. Read more

Setting

Outdoor farm

Picking depends on the day's crop — phone ahead before travelling.

Hours

Mon–Sun 9–4pm · Picking and bike park

Open again for the season from Friday 2 October.

Farm shop selling fresh blueberries, smoothies, coffee and blueberry products on the Back family's Sonop farm. The shop is open weekdays 8:30–4:30pm, with U-Pick on the weekends through the picking season. Read more

Setting

Outdoor farm & farm shop

U-Pick is seasonal and runs on the weekends. Phone ahead to confirm the day's picking and the current price.

Hours

Shop: Mon–Fri 8:30–4:30pm · U-Pick on weekends · previously listed Sat–Sun 8–4pm

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

Mon–Sun 8:30–5:30pm

Movies under the stars on big lawns, and a lovely summer evening out with the family. Bring a picnic or buy from the food trucks, arrive when the doors open to get a good spot, and pack warm layers for when the sun goes down. Weekday screenings are at Kirstenbosch. Read more

Setting

Outdoor open-air cinema

Under-4s are free and children from 4 need a ticket. You get a free standard ticket in the month of your birthday. Pensioner tickets are R99 on Wednesdays and student tickets R99 on Thursdays. Backrests and blankets can also be rented on arrival for R25 and R15. Special screenings — Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's, Easter — run R175 to R350.

Hours

Season 15 Oct 2026 – 15 May 2027 · times depend on events