Summer is finally with us. And if you find yourself in Cape Town, there’s nothing like a day out with the family exploring the city. But with so many activities to choose from, deciding which are worth doing may be a little tough, especially when taking COVID into consideration.
Not to worry, we’ve created a list of our favourite family-friendly summer activities that will get you all out of the house while remaining COVID-friendly.
1. Exploring the Company’s Garden
The Company’s Garden is more than just the “green lung” of Cape Town, it’s a day’s worth of activities for the whole family wrapped up in a bow of fresh air and tranquillity. Visit the oldest cultivated pear tree in South Africa, feed the squirrels, wander through the rose, herb or succulent gardens, or stop for lunch at the Garden Tea Room.
If you’re looking to learn a thing or two and soak up some culture along with the sunshine, pay a visit to the Planetarium, Iziko South African Museum or the South African National Gallery while you’re there.
2. Oranjezicht City Farm market
Open from morning to early afternoon on both Saturdays and Sundays, as well as on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer, the Oranjezicht City Farmer’s Market is a great way to enjoy the fresh air, take in uninterrupted views of Granger Bay and try new local restaurants. It’s also a dog-friendly space and there’s no entrance fee.
3. Picnic at Mount Nelson
Looking for something a bit more indulgent? The iconic Mount Nelson is right in the middle of the city. Gourmet poolside or garden picnics are available from Friday to Sunday between 12pm and 6pm. Why not make some memories and spend a perfect summer’s afternoon lounging in the shade with your loved ones?
4. Clay Café in the City
Unleash your inner child and get your creative juices flowing at Clay Café in the City. Open for bookings seven days a week, Clay Café is an experience that combines good food with creativity in a setting that facilitates connection and fun. Book your session over breakfast, brunch, lunch or even dinner and get painting.
5. Kloof Corner Sunset Hike
Cape Town is known for its mountains and hiking trails. But many are a little challenging and aren’t too kid-friendly. So, if you’re the outdoorsy type and are looking for a hike that your little ones can join in on, Kloof Corner is perfect. A great sunset spot, Kloof Corner is a short twenty-minute hike that’s almost as popular as Lion’s Head and starts on Tafelberg Road. Be sure to take some water with you, and a few snacks to enjoy at the top.
6. Green Point Park Biodiversity Garden
Open from 7 am to 7 pm seven days a week, the Green Point Park Biodiversity Garden is filled with adventure and opportunities to learn. Perfect for a summer’s picnic, kid’s birthday party, or just a short stroll at golden hour, the park is brimming with beautiful sceneries. There are also multiple kid’s play areas and an old school café for a light bite or relaxing coffee. To top it all off, the birds and wildlife are in abundance — including Cape Otters, Sacred Ibises and Khoi fish, to name a few.
7. Up Cycles at the Sea Point Promenade
Up Cycles is a local bicycle renting business with both adult and children’s bikes available. Gather the family and cycle from the Sea Point Pavilion along the Promenade to the Mouille Point Lighthouse, or venture further to the V&A Waterfront. Alternatively, go in the opposite direction, from their main station at the Pavilion all the way to Camps Bay. Both routes are around 5km and very manageable for those who are reasonably fit.
Whatever you decide to get up to this summer, whether it’s one activity on our list, all or even none, remember to stay safe, social distance where possible and try to wear a smile behind your mask!
