Last-minute escape: Day Trips and Family Weekend Getaways from Cape Town

Looking for a last-minute escape or a family weekend getaway? Cape Town is the perfect destination.

Cape Town offers many family-friendly activities and attractions that make it an ideal destination for a memorable family getaway – from its stunning beaches to its world-class museums, there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.  

Is Cape Town suitable for kids?  

Cape Town is incredibly kid-friendly, boasting many activities catering to children of all ages. From exploring vibrant markets to seeing adorable penguins, your little ones will be enchanted by the city's charm. 

There are many restaurants from the city to the Winelands where locals and visitors alike enjoy great food and wonderful, kid-friendly environs. In the city, Deer Park Café borders Deer Park, where kids can run free while their parents enjoy lunch and a glass of wine on the patio. In Tamboerskloof, Café Paradiso offers a kids' make-your-own pizza special, and in the suburbs, families can enjoy the gardens and playgrounds at The Foresters Arms, the Montebello Design Centre, the Blockhouse Kitchen, and so much more. 

Where can I take my kids today in Cape Town?  

Cape Town has various options for family day trips that promise fun-filled adventures. Head to the iconic V&A Waterfront for a day of shopping, dining, and playing at the exciting playground. Don't miss the chance to visit the Two Oceans Aquarium, where your kids can marvel at marine life up close.  

On those blustery days in winter, there are also a variety of indoor playgrounds, such as the PlayDate SuperPark at the V&A Waterfront, Playstation by Rush and Freedom Adventure Park in Tokai, as well as Ipic Play and Playalot in the northern suburbs. These are great places for kids to bounce, jump, climb, and run all of their energy out. Better yet, they all have built-in cafés where parents can enjoy a coffee and lunch while the kids go wild. 

 

Which area of Cape Town is best for families?  

For families wanting a convenient and enjoyable stay, consider exploring the many family-friendly neighbourhoods of Cape Town. The V&A Waterfront area is a popular choice, offering a vibrant atmosphere, shopping, dining, and plenty of attractions suitable for all ages. 

For families looking for glitz and glamour, we recommend staying in the V&A Waterfront, Clifton, or Camps Bay. These areas are close to the sea, have many incredible restaurants, as well as lots of opportunities to shop ‘til you drop. 

The suburbs — southern and northern — are quieter, and more distant from the hustle and bustle of the city. Newlands, Claremont, Constantia and Bishopscourt are close to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens and are gorgeous, leafy, green suburbs — great for kids!  

What is on in Cape Town for kids?  

Cape Town is brimming with kid-friendly activities and events that promise to keep your little ones entertained. From interactive science centres to captivating planetarium shows, there's no shortage of educational and exciting experiences for children to enjoy.  

Cape Town is also an incredible city to spend time in nature. From the Table Mountain National Park to Boulders Beach, the city is surrounded by white, sandy beaches, beautiful forests and hiking trails.  

How do you entertain kids in Cape Town?  

Entertaining kids in Cape Town is a breeze! Engage them in a thrilling hike up Table Mountain, where they can either take a cable car ride or embark on a hike to the summit. The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is another excellent option, offering hiking trails and a delightful children's garden. 

Where can you take kids for a weekend from Cape Town? 

For families looking for an unforgettable weekend getaway, Cape Town has you covered. Cheap weekend getaways near Cape Town are easily accessible, providing an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle. Consider a relaxing retreat to Gordon's Bay, a coastal town known for its scenic beauty and tranquil beaches. This charming destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and family-friendly activities. 

If you're looking to venture a bit further, the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek Winelands are excellent options for a weekend away. These picturesque regions not only offer wine tastings and tours for adults, but also provide ample space for children to run around, enjoy picnics, and partake in outdoor activities. 

Up the West Coast from Cape Town, a 1 to 1.5-hour drive will take you to Langebaan or Riebeek-Kasteel, both sweet small towns, with plenty of charm, restaurants, and outdoor things to do. 

Two hours in the other direction lies Hermanus and the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, and a little further along, the picturesque village of Stanford. These Western Cape gems are well worth a visit for a weekend away, especially for families. There are wine farms with rolling lawns, warmer water at the beaches (compared to the icy Atlantic that hugs most city beaches), and whale watching to be seen in some seasons. 

Cape Town: The Family-Friendly City 

Cape Town shines as an exceptional destination for a family holiday or a family weekend getaway. With its wide range of attractions, day trips, and nearby getaways, Cape Town ensures that families of all sizes can enjoy a memorable and enriching experience together. Whether you're looking for thrilling adventures or tranquil relaxation, a Cape Town holiday package has something to offer every member of the family. 

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