As the school holidays approach, many Cape Town parents find themselves in a familiar predicament: how to keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank. Fear not! Our beautiful Mother City offers plenty of budget-friendly activities that will make for a memorable holiday. Here’s your guide to having fun without emptying your wallet.
1. Beach Days
Cape Town’s stunning beaches are not only free but offer endless entertainment. Pack a picnic and head to:
Muizenberg Beach: Perfect for beginner surfers and sandcastle builders
Boulders Beach: Home to our famous penguin colony (small conservation fee applies)
Clifton Beaches: Ideal for sunbathing and people-watching
Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water!
2. Hiking Adventures
Lace up those hiking boots and explore Cape Town’s natural beauty:
Lion’s Head: A relatively easy climb with breathtaking views
Newlands Forest: Shaded trails perfect for hot days
Silvermine Nature Reserve: Various trails and a reservoir for a post-hike swim (small entrance fee)
3. Free Museum Days
Many Cape Town museums offer free entry on certain days:
Iziko South African Museum: Free on commemorative days and certain weekends
District Six Museum: Free on Heritage Day
Cape Town Holocaust & Genocide Centre: Always free
Check museum websites for updated free entry days.
4. Parks and Gardens
Pack a frisbee and picnic for a day out at:
Green Point Urban Park: With outdoor gym equipment and a biodiversity garden
Company’s Garden: Rich in history and home to friendly squirrels
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: Free entry for kids under 6 (small fee for adults)
5. Free Walking Tours
Join a free (tip-based) walking tour to explore:
Bo-Kaap’s colourful houses
The historic city centre
The V&A Waterfront
6. Library Activities
Local libraries often host free holiday programs including:
Story times
Arts and crafts sessions
Educational workshops
Check your nearest library for their holiday schedule.
7. Markets
Browse (and sample) at these vibrant markets:
Earth Fair Market in St. Georges Mall (Thursdays)
Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay (weekends)
Oranjezicht City Farm Market at Granger Bay (Saturdays)
8. Outdoor Movies
Keep an eye out for free outdoor movie screenings often held at:
The V&A Waterfront
Various parks around the city
9. Free Concerts and Performances
During summer, look out for:
Free concerts at Kirstenbosch (excluding their paid Summer Sunset Concerts)
Street performances at the V&A Waterfront
10. DIY Home Activities
For those rainy days:
Host a board game marathon
Have a baking competition
Create an indoor obstacle course
Remember, the best memories often come from the simplest activities. With a little creativity and this guide, you’re set for a fantastic, budget-friendly school holiday in Cape Town!
