10 Adventurous Activities to Enjoy with Your Family in Cape Town!

7 minute read

10-adventurous-activities-to-enjoy-with-your-family-in-cape-town

As a Cape Town local, I can confidently say there’s no better place to keep teens entertained than our vibrant and diverse Mother City. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and endless variety of activities, Cape Town truly offers something for everyone. Whether your family is craving adventure, culture, or just looking to unwind, there’s always an exciting spot or unique experience to enjoy.

The holiday season here is magical, from thrilling outdoor adventures to creative indoor activities, Cape Town caters to all ages and interests. The best part? It’s not just limited to the Table Mountain Cable Car! Many of these experiences double as bonding time with your teens, creating memories they’ll treasure long after the holidays are over. 

Here are a few must-try activities to keep them off their screens and fully immersed in all our city has to offer

#1 FUN IN THE SUN-BEACH DAYS

Cape Town’s beaches are world-renowned for their beauty, with crystal-clear waters, pristine sands, and iconic backdrops like Table Mountain or the 12 Apostles. Whether you’re into surfing, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), or simply relaxing, there’s a beach for everyone.

Blue Flag beaches like Fish Hoek, Clifton 4th, Llandudno, Melkbosstrand, and Muizenberg offer safe, clean and beautiful spaces to enjoy the ocean. For calmer waters, tidal pools at Camps Bay, St. James, Dalebrook, and Maiden’s Cove are perfect for cooling off while soaking up stunning views.

Pack a picnic, bring a volleyball, or head to Clifton 1st Beach with your furry friend—it’s pet-friendly and fun for the whole family!

#2 FROLIC WITH PENGUINS IN SIMON’S TOWN

Famous for its Penguin Colony, Simon’s Town draws the attention of many overseas tourists. The main draw factor is Boulder’s beach where you can greet the penguins and marvel at their cuteness, but there are many hidden gems to explore along the way. If you are driving in from Capetown, a pitstop at Kalk Bay is a must. Amble through the bespoke shops, grab a bite to eat at one of many eateries and get a closer look at the famous Cape Fur Seals lying along the Kalk Bay harbour walkway.

Windmill Beach and Miller’s Point are some of the quieter spots to swim, snorkel and discover some of the underwater creatures that inhabit the False Bay shoreline.

#3 CULTURAL HUB @ V&A WATERFRONT

The V&A Waterfront truly has something for everyone! With a wide variety of shops, restaurants, craft markets, and fun activities like cave golf and escape rooms, it’s the perfect destination for a day out. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Two Oceans Aquarium, where sharks, rays, and a host of fascinating marine life await. Be sure to visit the seal deck on your way out—it’s always a crowd-pleaser! 

Local’s tip: head there after 3 PM to enjoy half-price entrance fees. 

After exploring, treat yourself at the Time Out Market, where you’ll find some of Cape Town’s best and most celebrated local dishes.

#4 CAPE POINT NATURE RESERVE

Just a 1.5-hour drive from Cape Town, Cape Point Nature Reserve is a must-visit for a full day of adventure and natural beauty. The reserve offers scenic hiking trails, unparalleled viewpoints, tidal pools for swimming, and a dedicated braai area for a meal immersed in nature. One of the highlights is the Flying Dutchman Funicular, which takes you up to the iconic lighthouse with breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

Plan to arrive early to make the most of your visit, and don’t forget your binoculars—you might just spot a pod of dolphins or even a whale if you’re lucky! 

#5 GRANDWEST CASINO

Cape Town’s weather can be unpredictable, with sunny days quickly turning into cold, windy ones (We have the famous South Easterly wind to thank for that). On those chillier days, GrandWest Casino is the perfect spot to keep the whole family entertained. With a variety of activities like movies, tenpin bowling, laser tag, and even an ice rink, there’s something to suit everyone. GrandWest Casino is a go-to option to beat the weather and keep the kids entertained no matter the forecast!

#6 LACE UP YOUR HIKING SHOES

Cape Town is a hiker’s paradise, offering a variety of trails suitable for all fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned adventurers. Always hike in groups for safety and come prepared with plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen and a sunhat. While the trails are beautiful, please be aware of the area’s resident venomous snakes, like the Cape Cobra and Puffadder. Popular hiking spots include Lion’s Head, Silvermine Reserve, Devil’s Peak, The Pipe Trail and Newlands Forest—each offering unique views and experiences. 

#7 FEAST LIKE A FOODIE AT THE LOCAL MARKETS

Cape Town is home to a selection of weekly local markets, each offering a unique shopping and dining experience, loved by locals and visitors alike. Whether you're browsing artisanal goods, enjoying fresh produce, or sampling street food, these markets provide a wonderful way to explore the city's local culture. Popular markets include the Oranjezicht City Farm Market, the Cape Point Vineyards Community Market, and the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill, to name a few. 

#8 KIRSTENBOSCH BOTANICAL GARDENS

Get lost in nature at the award-winning Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, with the formidable Table Mountain range as your backdrop. Rich in diverse flora, birdlife, and buzzing insects, this tranquil spot offers plenty of ways to unwind. Take a leisurely stroll along the Boomslang Tree Canopy walkway, find a peaceful picnic spot, and let the beauty of the garden refresh your spirit. 

#9 SPECTACULAR SEAPOINT

The Sea Point Promenade is a favourite during the school holidays. You can enjoy a scenic walk along the paved pathway from Sea Point to Mouille Point, or hire an electric scooter or bike to cover more ground, all while taking in the refreshing sea breeze and sounds of the ocean. For some added fun, play a round of mini-golf at Mouille Point, and then stop by The Creamery for a delicious ice cream cone right by the sea. 

Just a street away, you’ll find the vibrant Mojo Market, offering a variety of dining options and live music—perfect for both kids and teens to enjoy!

#10 HOP ON HOP OFF RED BUS

The well-known ‘Red Bus’ offers a fun, informative, and unique way to see the highlights of Cape Town. With an audio-guided tour, it’s both educational and entertaining for the whole family. You can even add a V&A Harbour cruise to your experience for a bit of extra adventure. They offer great family and birthday specials, and you can choose a single route for the day or get a two-day pass to explore all the possible routes around the Peninsula. 


-------------------------------------------

Spending time away from your screens will allow families and friends to truly connect and enjoy quality time together. Shared experiences nurture the emotional brain and create lasting memories, which not only enrich relationships but also provide meaningful experiences (who knows, it might even inspire the children’s next descriptive essay assignment!)

Millennial woman with curly black hair tutoring brunette teenage girl

We help families find their perfect tutor

Help your child improve their grades and get their confidence back.

GET A TUTOR