Gemma BLDCape Town is more than just a destination for honeymooners and adventurers. It is an incredibly family-friendly city, offering a diverse range of activities for kids of all ages. From wildlife encounters to sandy beaches, educational museums to open-air markets, Cape Town is a city where kids can learn, play, and make memories. After spending 10 days exploring Cape Town with our child, we can confidently say it’s a destination we’d recommend to any traveling family.
Why Cape Town Works for Families
Cape Town is easy to navigate, with plenty of Uber availability and relatively short driving distances between major sights. Many public areas are clean and accessible, and South Africans are generally welcoming to children. While safety is a consideration (as with any large city), we never felt particularly unsafe when we stayed aware of our surroundings. Security guards are present in most tourist-heavy areas, and common sense precautions go a long way.
1. Explore the V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is a great place to start your family adventure. With a wide pedestrian area, live entertainment, and beautiful views of Table Mountain, this spot is ideal for families. Kids will love the Cape Wheel (a giant observation wheel), and the Two Oceans Aquarium is a must-visit, offering interactive exhibits and touch pools.
- Location: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001
- Best for Ages: 2–12
- Tips: Visit in the morning before crowds build up. Plenty of dining options are kid-friendly.
2. Sea Life Encounters at Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is home to a colony of African penguins. The boardwalks make it easy for strollers, and you can get surprisingly close to the penguins. There’s also a small beach for paddling if the weather is warm.
- Location: Kleintuin Rd, Simon’s Town, Cape Town, 7995
- Best for Ages: 3+
- Tips: Pack swimwear and towels. Entrance is about R170. It’s a drive, but worth it.
3. Fun and Food at Oranjezicht City Market
This stylish open-air market, Oranjezicht City Market, is family-friendly with great food, music, and open space. You’ll find fresh produce, smoothies, delicious hot food, and baked treats. It’s stroller-accessible and has a relaxed, community vibe.
- Location: Granger Bay Blvd, V&A Waterfront
- Best for Ages: All ages
- Tips: Open Saturdays and Sundays. There’s something for even the pickiest eaters.
4. Learn and Play at the Natural History Museum
Although it’s not in Cape Town proper, the Natural History Museum in the nearby city center (part of the South African Museum) is great for a quieter, educational day. Dinosaur skeletons and cultural exhibits will fascinate kids.
- Location: 25 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town
- Best for Ages: 5+
- Tips: Free or low-cost entry. Bring snacks for little ones as options inside are limited.
5. Botanical Beauty at Kirstenbosch Gardens
Kirstenbosch is one of the world’s greatest botanical gardens and an open playground for children. They can run around safely, have a picnic, and enjoy the treetop canopy walk.
- Location: Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town
- Best for Ages: All ages
- Tips: Bring sunscreen, hats, and snacks. Ideal for a calm, nature-filled afternoon.
6. Constantia Glen Winery
Yes, you can visit a winery with kids in tow! Constantia Glen is family-friendly with outdoor seating and wide-open spaces. While the adults enjoy wine tasting, kids can snack and enjoy the views.
- Location: Constantia Main Rd, Constantia, Cape Town
- Best for Ages: 8+ (though younger kids are welcome)
- Tips: Make a lunch reservation. Try the cheese platters.
7. A Safari Experience at Aquila Private Game Reserve
While it’s about a 2-hour drive from Cape Town, Aquila offers a family-friendly safari where kids can see the Big Five without the need for a multi-day bush experience. The reserve has a pool, restaurant, and even a spa.
- Location: Touws River, Western Cape
- Best for Ages: 5+
- Tips: Book in advance. Bring layers for the early morning game drives.
8. Sea Point Promenade
A flat, ocean-side walkway that’s perfect for kids on scooters or strollers. There are play parks along the route, and food vendors for snacks.
- Location: Sea Point, Cape Town
- Best for Ages: All ages
- Tips: Go early or late afternoon for cooler weather.
9. Table Mountain by Cable Car
Kids love the rotating cable car and the view from the top is unforgettable. There are paths and photo opportunities all around. While hiking isn’t ideal with little ones, the cable car makes the summit accessible.
- Location: Tafelberg Rd, Gardens, Cape Town
- Best for Ages: 4+
- Tips: Check the weather before you go. Book tickets online to avoid queues.
10. Dining with Kids in Cape Town
Many restaurants in Cape Town are welcoming to children. Here are a few highlights:
- SA Carne (Time Out Market): Kid-friendly options and fast service.
- Harbor House (V&A): Waterfront views, high chairs available.
- Chinchilla (Camps Bay): Rooftop vibes and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Madame Taitou (Long Street): Fun, jungle-like interior that kids find fascinating.
Tips: Most places will accommodate children, but it’s worth calling ahead if you need high chairs or space for strollers.
Tips for Traveling with Kids in Cape Town
Traveling with children can be incredibly rewarding, especially in a destination as diverse and exciting as Cape Town. Here are some practical, tried-and-tested tips to help your family trip go smoothly:
1. Plan Around Nap Times and Energy Levels
Cape Town is full of outdoor activities and walking opportunities, but it’s best to plan the more active parts of your day for the mornings when kids have the most energy. Use afternoons for quieter experiences like visiting a museum, relaxing at your accommodation, or strolling along Sea Point Promenade.
2. Book in Advance Where Possible
While many attractions in Cape Town don’t require pre-booking, it’s smart to reserve spots for high-demand experiences like Table Mountain cableway tickets, safari day trips (like Aquila), or weekend slots at popular restaurants or markets. This helps you avoid queues and guarantees a smoother day.
3. Safety First
Cape Town is generally safe in well-trafficked tourist areas, but like any large city, it’s important to stay alert. Keep a close eye on children, especially in crowded places like markets or the V&A Waterfront. Always have a backup meeting point in case you get separated.
4. Bring Sun Protection
Cape Town has a warm, dry climate with strong sun—even outside of summer months. Make sure everyone has sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles, especially if you’re doing hikes or visiting places like Boulders Beach or Kirstenbosch Gardens.
5. Choose Child-Friendly Restaurants
Many restaurants in Cape Town are used to families and offer kids’ menus or flexible seating. Markets like Oranjezicht or the Time Out Market are particularly easy with little ones because you can get food quickly and eat outdoors in a casual setting. Harbor House and Chinchilla offer views and atmosphere that can entertain kids while you dine.
6. Have Entertainment for Downtime
Bring a few small toys, coloring books, or downloaded shows for downtime between activities or during meals. Even though Cape Town is full of stimulation, there are always lulls when you’ll be grateful for a quiet distraction.
7. Use Uber or Drive
Uber is affordable and reliable in Cape Town, making it a stress-free option for families. If you’re confident driving abroad, renting a car gives you more freedom to explore beyond the city (like visiting wineries or the Cape of Good Hope) without managing tired kids on public transport.
8. Pack Layers
The weather in Cape Town can change quickly, especially near the coast or up in the mountains. Bring light layers so kids stay comfortable whether it’s sunny, windy, or unexpectedly chilly.
9. Look for Unique Experiences
From penguin spotting to feeding giraffes at a safari lodge, Cape Town offers magical experiences for children. Don’t feel pressure to do every landmark—sometimes a picnic in the botanical gardens or a walk by the ocean is just as special.
10. Adjust Your Pace
Kids naturally slow things down, and that’s okay. Don’t overpack your itinerary. Leave time for spontaneous stops—Cape Town is a city full of small surprises that are perfect to stumble on when you’re not rushing.
Cape Town offers so many ways to keep kids entertained while still giving parents a fulfilling, beautiful vacation. With wildlife, beaches, food, and culture, it’s a city that gives you the best of all worlds. Just be smart about safety, plan ahead, and Cape Town will easily become one of your favorite family destinations.
