It is very important for a child’s development to spend quality time with their families. I am sure that I could write a whole blog post, if not more, on the positive impact that spending time with your children can have on them. But I am not going to do that in this post. Rather I am going to give you some suggestions of fun things you can do as a family.
My husband and I both grew up in the Western Cape. There were so many activities that we never did while we lived there. But since we have moved away and started our own family, we often go back to visit family and while there we do “touristy” things. The places that I’m going to mention are places that we have been to as a family and have enjoyed the experience and would definitely do it again. I specifically have not included the costs because prices of things are always changing. You will notice, however, some of the activities are free or low cost. The reason for this is because many family activities have become commercialised, but it need not be. I want to show you that having fun with your family doesn’t have to cost a lot.
- Kalk Bay
You could easily spend the whole day exploring this lovely little suburb. We usually go to Kalk Bay at least once every time we visit the Cape. Try to go as early as possible, which if you have little ones usually isn’t a problem because they tend to wake up early anyway. Prepare whatever you will need for the day the night before. Make sure you have comfortable walking shoes and a pram if needed. We usually start off going to the beach first, so that it isn’t too hot and to avoid the crowds. There are some lovely little rock pools that are safe for your little ones to play in. Next, take a walk down the main street. There are many antique and craft shops for you to explore. But be careful of little hands that might want to touch all the delegate things. Finish off your morning with lunch or a coffee at one of the many quaint little coffee shops.
- Oude Molen Eco Village, Pinelands
If you or your children love horses then this is the place for you. For a small fee your children can have a horse ride while you can enjoy a cappuccino at the eco- friendly cafe. There is also a kiddies play area in the garden. This place has a lot of rich history behind it too. It is a great spot to meet up with a few friends and enjoy the outdoors while your children play together.
Important to know: They are closed on Mondays.
For more information: https://www.sa-venues.com/things-to-do/westerncape/millstone-eco-friendly-farm-stall-and-cafe/
- Scratch Patch, Simon’s Town
I remember going to the Scratch Patch as a child and for some reason all I wanted to do was collect all the stones that looked like chewing gum. This is just a lovely outing to do. You purchase a plastic bag, different prices depending on the size, and let your children spend time searching for little treasures. I don’t know of any child that doesn’t enjoy collecting “treasures”. It can get busy, so try to go during off peak times. And yes, you guessed it… There is also a coffee shop where you can buy coffee.
For more information: https://www.scratchpatch.co.za/scratch-patch/
- Bike Park, Constantia Uitsig
If you haven’t been riding as a family yet, this is definitely an activity that I would recommend to you. I can attest to the fact that one never forgets how to ride a bike. Before I met my husband I hadn’t been on a bike in over 10 years. Now, many years later, after my first wobbly attempt, it is something that we love doing together as a family. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own bike or helmet. You can hire one for yourself and your children. But you are also allowed to bring your own and save a bit of money. There are different tracks that are age-appropriate and skill dependent. Don’t forget to bring sun cream, hats, water and snacks. Again, try to go early before the heat of the day.
For more information: https://bikeparkatuitsig.co.za/
- Greenpoint Park
This is a lovely park to go for a picnic. It is a safe place to let your children play outdoors. There are many different jungle gym sets that are age-appropriate. So you don’t have to worry about bigger children bumping into your little toddler who has just learnt how to walk. It is very well shaded and there are many walks that you can go on. There are also a number of exciting outdoor venues including the Biodiversity Showcase Garden, Reddam Field and an amphitheatre.
For more information: https://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/See-all-city-facilities/Our-recreational-facilities/Regional%20parks/green-point-park-and-biodiversity-showcase-garden
- Imhoff farm, Kommetjie
There are a few quaint little shops for the moms and dads to explore. Sit down and enjoy the view at the Blue Water Café while your children play in a safe enclosed garden with a large jungle gym area and neighbouring animal farmyard. “The Café guarantees that your little ones will be kept happily occupied while you indulge in a laid-back culinary experience.”
For more information: https://imhofffarm.co.za/
- Clay Café, Hout Bay
Spend a few hours in a relaxed environment where you can bring out your creative side. Choose from a vast array of clay objects and a wide selection of colourful paints to create your own unique piece. The staff will give you a detailed explanation of how everything works and are always ready to assist you with any painting techniques. If you or your little ones start to feel hungry or thirsty from all your creative work, you can order something to eat or drink. There is a garden and a playground outside. Once your children have finished painting they can go play and explore. Be sure to take some art aprons or dress your children in old clothes.
Important to know: Your item can take up to 4 weeks before it will be ready for collection.
For more information: https://claycafe.co.za/home/
- Aquarium, Cape Town
This is definitely a worthwhile experience for the whole family. There are 6 different exhibits to explore. Find out the feeding times to be able to see the penguins, sharks and many other marine animals being fed. If you live in the Cape you might want to consider buying a yearly ticket. You will only need to go 3 times a year to make up the cost. Children under 4 years old can go for free. You can also go for free on your birthday or 6 days thereafter.
For more information: https://www.aquarium.co.za/
- Acrobranch, Constantia
This is something fun for the whole family. Enjoy spending time in nature and climbing in the trees. There are four different courses that are age-appropriate. As well as being fun, the obstacles will challenge your balance and capabilities. It can also be a great team building exercise. Being scared of heights myself I was very nervous to join in. But soon I relaxed and started to enjoy myself. So don’t let your fear of heights stop you from enjoying this experience.
Important to know: This is a height dependent activity. Usually by 3 years children are tall enough to participate.
For more information: https://acrobranch.co.za/
- Kirstenbosch Gardens, Newlands
Who doesn’t love a good picnic? And what better spot to have one, but in these amazing gardens. But that is not the only thing that Kirstenbosch has to offer. There are many pieces of art displayed throughout the gardens for everyone to enjoy. There is even something called “Seeing the invisible” where you are able to observe artworks by means of a smartphone or tablet through the unique Seeing the Invisible app. Furthermore, there is The Braille Trail. It takes about 30 minutes to complete and will allow you to explore the forest using all of your senses. Children under 6 years old are free.
For more information: https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch/
- Waters Edge Beach, Simons Town
This little beach feels a bit like a secret known only to a few. It is hidden behind a wooden fence that you may walk straight past if you aren’t paying attention. It is a very small beach that feels safe. It is very close to Boulders Beach and you may even be lucky enough to spot some penguins.
For more information: https://blog.sa-venues.com/provinces/western-cape/waters-edge-beach/
- Noordhoek Farm Village
This is another charming spot to explore. There are many unusual little shops to venture into and a number of restaurants from which to choose from. But the best part of all, for those with little people, is an amazing enclosed play area. You can sit back and relax while your children have hours of fun.
For more information: https://thefarmvillage.co.za/
- Table Mountain cable car
Take a picnic supper and watch the sunset from the top of Table Mountain. Going in the afternoon, instead of the morning will save you some money. Once at the top follow the path to see all the different viewpoints. Children will receive an activity book which has questions that they need to answer as they explore the top of the mountain. For a cheaper alternative you can hike up Table Mountain in the morning and then take the cable car back down in the afternoon. Paying for a one way ticket instead of a return. Children under 4 years old are free. If you go during the month of your birthday, it is free!
For more information: https://tablemountain.net/
- Cape Point
There are many different activities on offer at the Cape of Good Hope. You can take a walk up to the lighthouse or walk the shipwreck trail to view a few of the 26 recorded shipwrecks around Cape Point. There are many great swimming spots, picnic sites and walks on offer. Download the free Cape Point Audio Tour and learn new facts that you didn’t know before. Don’t forget to bring everything you need for a hike and your swimwear.
For more information: https://capepoint.co.za/
- Di Hel Trail
Wanting to get out of the house and do something different. Go for a walk at Di Hel. It is an easy walk that will take about 45 minutes to complete. You can do a simple circular loop around or you may choose to one of the paths that takes you through the mini forest. There is some amazing bird life to see if you are quiet and patient. Both can be challenging with small people.
For more information: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/south-africa/western-cape/de-hel-trail
Thanks for reading my post. I hope you found it helpful. Please send me any feedback, comments or questions that you may have. I would also like to hear if there are any topics that you would like me to deal with in the future. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
Bye for now.
