Fun Things to Do in Cape Town with Kids

Discover exciting activities across Cape Town, from the Atlantic Seaboard to the Cape Winelands, guaranteed to keep children of all ages entertained. Cape Town is a vibrant holiday destination that appeals to visitors from all walks of life.

Many of the city's suburbs cater to families, offering attractions and experiences for every age group and interest. With hundreds of activities designed for children, you'll never run out of ideas for things to do in Cape Town with kids.

Be sure to have a look at our insider's guide which helps families visiting Cape Town choose the best place to stay (area and accommodation).

If you have any questions, email reservations or call us on +27 21 201 1217 for advice and assistance.

When booking a self-catering holiday rental on the Atlantic Seaboard, you'll enjoy a prime seaside location with easy access to Cape Town's top attractions. The suburbs of Camps Bay, Clifton, Bantry Bay, Sea Point, Green Point, and Mouille Point are all perfectly positioned near the Mother City's most iconic beaches. Beyond relaxing on Camps Bay Beach, families will also find plenty of fun activities to keep children of all ages entertained.

Enjoy experiencing southern Africa's diverse marine life at the Two Oceans Aquarium. There is a designated kiddie area, touch pool and more.

Opening hours: Daily from 09:30 to 18:00.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Indoors, so visit come rain or shine.

Visit: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront (view on Google Maps)

Website: aquarium.co.za

Board The Jolly Roger Pirate Boat, operated by Yacoob Yachts, for an unforgettable harbour cruise. You may even get lucky and see dolphins and whales. Yacoob Yachts has a variety of vessels departing from the V&A Waterfront.

Opening hours: Morning, lunchtime, afternoon and sunset cruises.

Ideal ages: All ages; children under 12 enjoy the Jolly Roger pirate show.

Weather notes: Hop on board when the weather is sunny and the wind is moderate.

Visit: Quay 5, V&A Waterfront (view on Google Maps)

Website: yacoobyachts.co.za

A fun ferry ride departing from the V & A Waterfront takes you on an educational site visit to the historic prison island.

Opening hours: Tours depart daily at 09:00, 11:00 and 13:00.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Pick a day when it is sunny and not too windy.

Visit: Nelson Mandela Gateway, V&A Waterfront (view on Google Maps)

Website: robben-island.org.za/tours

A ride on the Cape Wheel with its 360° views of Cape Town is a highlight for children of all ages.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 until 22:00

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Good weather makes for amazing views.

Visit: The Lawns, Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (view on Google Maps)

Website: capewheel.co.za

The Sea Point Promenade is a broad boardwalk. It has space for people from all walks of life. It runs the length of Sea Point's beachfront from Mouille Point to Bantry Bay. There are play areas, outdoor art and gym installations on the Promenade. It also houses Cape Town's sparkling municipal swimming pool complex, the Pavilion. Included here are a 50m Olympic-size swimming pool, two kiddie splash pools and a deep diving pool.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 until 18:00

Ideal ages: All ages

Weather notes: Sunny, warm weather is great for swimming.

Visit: Beach Road, Sea Point (view on Google Maps)

Website: City of Cape Town

This kiddie zone is the perfect spot for things to do in Cape Town with toddlers. It is in Mouille Point, on the Promenade with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop. There is an "Old Lady" Mini Blue Train, Mini-skate Park and various bike tracks. It also has a jungle gym, an obstacle course and an astroturf soccer pitch.

Opening hours: In summer, Tuesday to Sunday from 09:30 to 18:30.
In winter, Tuesday to Thursday from 12:00 to 18:00; Friday to Sunday from 09:30–18:30; closed on Monday.

Ideal ages: The train is great for the little ones up to six years.

Weather notes: Best suited to fair weather days.

Visit: Next to the Light House, Beach Road, Mouille Point (view on Google Maps)

Website: thebluetrainpark.co.za

The Green Point Urban Park has playgrounds, jungle gym equipment and loads of space for picnics.

Opening hours: Daily from 07:00 to 19:00

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Best suited to fair weather days.

Visit: 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point (view on Google Maps)

Website: City of Cape Town

At the Clay Café in Hout Bay, young Picassos get a chance to paint their own designs on unfired, ready-made pottery pieces.

Opening hours: Daily from 09:00 to 17:00

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: All weather indoor activity.

Visit: 4080 Hout Bay Main Rd, Hout Bay (view on Google Maps)

Website: claycafe.co.za

World of Birds in Hout Bay is the largest bird park in Africa. It provides hours of fascination. Enquire about the bird feeding times for added excitement.

Opening hours: Daily from 09:00 to 17:00

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Best enjoyed in good weather.

Visit: Valley Road, Hout Bay (view on Google Maps)

Website: https://worldofbirds.co.za/

Atlantic Outlook Kayak Tour

Cave Golf at Scratch Patch

Artjamming

Up Cycles

Hop On-Hop Off

Acrobranch Constantia (Hout Bay)

Booking your accommodation in Sea Point is ideal, as it's just minutes from the V&A Waterfront, where a wide variety of activities await children of all ages.

The Table Mountain range is a playground in itself, encircling the City Bowl with countless activities to explore. From Camps Bay, you'll enjoy easy access to these attractions, just a short drive over Kloof Nek Road from your seaside rental brings you to the heart of the action.

No visit to Cape Town is complete without a cable car trip up Table Mountain. However, before you rush to the cableway, confirm the operating hours on their website before you go, as they can change regularly depending on the seasons and weather conditions.

Opening hours: In winter (May to August), the first car up departs at 08:30. The last car up is at 17:00. The last car down is at 18:00. In summer (September to April), the first car up departs at 08:00. The last car up is at 19:00. The last car down is at 20:00.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: The cableway only operates in good weather.

Visit: Tafelberg Road, off Kloof Nek Road, Cape Town (view on Google Maps)

Website: tablemountain.net

Scootours offers non-motorised, eco-friendly fun vehicles for the whole family. Ride around Table Mountain and freewheel down the slopes of Signal Hill.

Opening hours: Three daily tour slots at 10:00, 12:30 and 15:00. Tours are between 90 minutes to two hours.

Ideal ages: 10 years and older, passenger ages 4–9 years.

Visit: 209 Tafelberg Rd, Table Mountain Nature Reserve (view on Google Maps)

Website: scootours.co.za

Visit the most advanced digital planetarium on the African continent. The Iziko Museum Planetarium brings together art, science and entertainment. Its 360° cinema experience gives visitors a virtual voyage of the universe.

Opening hours: The planetary dome shows take place daily from Tuesdays to Sundays.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Suited to all weather conditions.

Visit: 25 Queen Victoria Street, Gardens (view on Google Maps)

Website: iziko.org.za/planetarium

A one-of-a-kind museum designed to spark curiosity and creativity, offering visitors a fun, interactive, and educational experience. Through optical illusions, visual tricks, and hands-on displays, the museum creates a playful environment that challenges perception and captivates visitors of all ages.

Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday from 09:00 until 20:00; Thursday to Sunday from 09:00 until 22:00

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Suited to all weather conditions.

Visit: 10 Kloof St, Gardens (view on Google Maps)

Website: moicapetown.co.za

Downhill Adventures (Gardens)

Climb Lion's Head (Signal Hill)

South African Museum (Gardens)

The Shred Skate Park (Paarden Eiland)

Take note of our comprehensive guide on safety tips for tourists to ensure a happy family vacation in Cape Town.

The South Peninsula comprises the area from Noordhoek's Long Beach to Kommetjie, through to Cape Point. On the False Bay side, the laid-back seaside suburbs of Simons Town, Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay and Muizenberg await.

Find free, fun activities and age-specific playgrounds at the Noordhoek Farm Village. There are also child-friendly restaurants. Do not miss the weekly Village Market on Wednesdays from 16:00 to 20:00 (weather dependent).

Opening hours: Shops open daily at 09:00.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Suited to all weather conditions.

Visit: Corner of Village Lane and Noordhoek Main Road, Noordhoek (view on Google Maps)

Website: thefarmvillage.co.za

Imhoff Farm is home to Higgeldy Piggeldy Farm Yard, Cape Town's most popular, authentic farm experience for children of all ages. Conveniently located in sight of Blue Water Café, your little ones are encouraged to visit the safe Farmyard for outdoor and educational entertainment.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 09:00 until 16:00

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Best enjoyed in good weather.

Visit: Kommetjie Road, Kommetjie (view on Google Maps)

Website: imhofffarm.co.za

Kids never tire of rides, and the Cape Point Flying Dutchman Funicular is a scenic highlight. This funicular railway carries visitors from the car park up to the old lighthouse, offering a fun and memorable journey. While exploring the Cape of Good Hope nature reserve, keep an eye out for baboons on land and whales in the ocean.

Opening hours: Daily from 09:00 to 17:30 in summer and until 17:00 in winter.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Visit when the weather is fair to get the best views.

Visit: Cape Point, Cape Peninsula (view on Google Maps)

Website: capepoint.co.za

Visit Boulders Beach to see an African Penguin colony up close. These charming birds live freely along the sheltered, often wind-free shoreline. It's a great spot for a family beach day, where kids can play by the sea while observing the penguins in their natural habitat. For the best viewing, plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon, especially in January.

Opening hours: December and January daily from 07:00 until 18:30. The rest of the year, daily from 08:00 until 17:00.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Best enjoyed in fair weather.

Visit: Kleintuin Road, Simon's Town (view on Google Maps)

Website: sanparks.org/boulders-penguin-colony

Kids can have loads of fun "scratching" for their favourite tumble-polished gemstones from thousands of polished stones that quite literally cover the floor.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 08:30 until 16:45; on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 09:00 until 17:00.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Under roof sections make this activity suited to all weather conditions.

Visit: Dido Valley Road, Simon's Town (view on Google Maps)

Website: scratchpatch.co.za

With some of the most sought-after properties worldwide, we guarantee your Clifton accommodation will be truly spectacular.

Explore Cape Town's leafy Southern Suburbs, full of surprises and attractions to delight visitors. Just a 20-minute drive from the Atlantic Seaboard, it's the perfect escape from the city buzz.

The Bike Park at Constantia Uitsig is open to cyclists of all ages and skill levels.

Opening hours: Daily from 08:00 to 18:00.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Outdoor cycling is more fun in fair weather.

Visit: Spaanschemat River Road, Porter Reform Estate (view on Google Maps)

Website: bikeparkatuitsig.co.za

Kirstenbosch is a must-visit destination in Cape Town. Kids especially love the Tree Canopy Walkway, while the Summer Sunset Concerts showcase local talent in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Opening hours: Daily in summer from 08:00 to 19:00 and 08:00 to 18:00 in winter.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Best suited in fair weather.

Visit: Rhodes Drive, Newlands (view on Google Maps)

Website: https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch/

This indoor trampoline park provides a jumping rush for kids and parents.

Opening hours: Closed on Mondays. Tuesday to Thursday from 11:00 until 19:00. Fridays and Saturdays from 09:00 until 20:00, and Sundays from 09:00 until 18:00.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Suited to all weather conditions.

Visit: Stadium on Main, 104 Main Road, Claremont (view on Google Maps)

Website: rushsa.co.za

With more than 250 interactive science exhibits and mind-boggling puzzles, the Cape Town Science Centre is a world of discovery under one roof.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 09:00 until 16:30.

Ideal ages: Ages 3 and up will enjoy the experience.

Weather notes: Indoor venue so suited to all weather conditions.

Visit: 370B Main Road, Observatory (view on Google Maps)

Website: ctsc.org.za

A supervised activity and fitness venue inspired by the need for individuals of all ages and abilities to achieve their own greatness. They are currently the largest inflatable and obstacle course in Africa. You can climb, balance, jump and swing across different obstacles using and developing your Ninja skills, plus they have the Warped Wall for every aspiring Ninja to conquer! A great place for family activities and for keeping fit.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 10:00 until 21:00, and Saturdays and Sundays from 09:00 to 21:00.

Ideal ages: Suited to children from the age of three and up.

Weather notes: Indoor venue so suited to all weather conditions.

Visit: Black River Park North, South Park Entrance, 2 Fir St, Observatory (view on Google Maps)

Website: totalninja.co.za

Oude Molen Eco Village (Pinelands)

Rhodes Memorial (Devil's Peak)

Montebello Design Centre (Newlands)

For fun, leisure, and relaxation, GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World is the place to be, the largest entertainment destination of its kind in South Africa. Kids will be entertained for hours with The Magic Arcade's games and rides, The Ice Station, ten-pin bowling, laser tag, and cinemas.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 until 23:00

Ideal ages: Suited to children from the age of five.

Weather notes: Indoor venue so suited to all weather conditions.

Visit: 1 Jakes Gerwel Drive, Goodwood (view on Google Maps)

Website: suninternational.com/grandwest

The Century City development is home to Intaka Island, a 16-hectare wetland where you can spot rare birds and admire majestic flora. Explore the island on a ferry ride or along its 2 km of scenic footpaths. With special holiday programmes, it's a fantastic destination for a family outing.

Opening hours: In summer from 07:30 until 19:00 and in winter, from 07:30 until 17:30.

Ideal ages: All ages.

Weather notes: Best enjoyed in fair weather.

Visit: Park Lane, Century City (view on Google Maps)

Website: intaka.co.za

Cool Runnings is South Africa's first downhill tobogganing track. This 1,2 km track hauls sleds up the mountain before letting them loose on its track down the slopes.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 11:00 until 18:00, weekends and Public Holidays from 09:00 until 18:00.

Ideal ages: Children between 3 to 7 years ride with an adult. Children may ride alone from 8 years and upwards.

Weather notes: Closed in rainy weather.

Visit: Opposite Bellville Velodrome, Carl Cronje Drive, Bellville (view on Google Maps)

Website: coolrunnings.capetown

Bugz Playpark is a fun all-weather theme park with plenty of indoor and outdoor play areas and water slides. It is also a great party venue.

Opening hours: Weekends, school holidays and public holidays only from 10:00 until 16:00

Ideal ages: All ages, but particularly great for toddlers and children under 10. Individual rides indicate suitable ages.

Weather notes: Suited to all weather conditions; however, outdoor areas are closed when it rains.

Visit: 56 Tarentaal Street, Joostenbergvlakte, Kraaifontein (view on Google Maps)

Website: bugzplaypark.co.za

Nu Metro Cinema (Century City)

Battlefield Live SA (Durbanville)

The Cape Winelands is a mere 45-minute drive from the city centre. The Helderberg area features Strand, Gordons Bay and Somerset West. Stellenbosch is a popular, leafy student town. Nearby Paarl and Franschhoek are also worth the visit.

Wine tasting is at the order of the day for adults. Plenty of children's activities make a Cape Winelands visit the ideal family-friendly outing.

Visit the Cheetah Outreach for a chance to meet majestic wild cats and some other animals too.

Opening hours: Daily from 09:30 to 17:00, encounters at 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 17:00.

Ideal ages: All ages, age restrictions apply for certain encounters.

Weather notes: Activities are weather-dependent.

Visit: Paardevlei, De Beers Ave, Somerset West, Helderberg (view on Google Maps)

Website: https://cheetah.co.za/

If you and the kids are up for a bit of adventure, head to Stellenbosch for an exciting outdoor karting experience. After a short drive along a slightly bumpy dirt road, you'll reach two tracks: a main track for adults and a dedicated kiddies' track for little racers.

Opening hours: Only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 until 16:30.

Ideal ages: There is a minimum age limit of 9+ years old or 1.3m in height for the kiddies track.

Weather notes: Best enjoyed in fair weather.

Visit: Intersection R304 and N7, Philadelphia Rd, Cape Farms, Cape Town (view on Google Maps)

Website: https://www.xtremeoutdoorkarting.net/wp/

Step into the enchanting world of the Toy Museum in Stellenbosch, where beautifully crafted 1:12 scale miniatures, room boxes, antique dolls, dinky cars, cuddly toys, and more await to spark your imagination.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 09:00 until 16:30; Saturdays from 09:00 until 14:00.

Ideal Ages: All ages

Weather notes: Indoor venue so suited to all weather conditions.

Visit: Mark St, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch (view on Google Maps)

Website: https://stelmus.co.za/miniature-toy-museum/

Helderberg Farm is a hidden gem in the Boland Winelands. Along with its Tea Garden, braai and picnic areas, animal feeding, and scenic mountain biking and hiking trails, the farm also offers fun extras like strawberry picking and Laser Tag, ensuring there's never a dull moment during your visit.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 08:00 until 17:00

Ideal Ages: All ages

Weather notes: Best enjoyed in fair weather

Visit: Klein Helderberg Road off, R44, Somerset West (view on Google Maps)

Website: https://helderbergplaas.co.za/

Founded in 2017, the Cat Rescue Café in Somerset West was the first of its kind in Africa. Today, it's home to 22 rescued, non-pedigreed cats, all thriving in a loving and healthy environment. The café's mission is to raise awareness about shelter cats and help prevent pet homelessness through education on rescue, adoption, and spay/neuter services.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 until 16:30; Saturdays from 10:00 until 14:00

Ideal Ages: Only 10 years and older

Weather notes: Indoor cafe so suited to all weather conditions

Visit: 35 Bright St, Audas Estate, Cape Town (view on Google Maps)

Website: https://catheaven.co.za/

Waterworld (Strand)

Wild Wild West (Strand)

Exotic Animal World (Stellenbosch)

From outdoor adventures to unique museums and family-friendly attractions, Cape Town is packed with exciting things to do with kids of all ages. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer holiday, there's always something new to discover.

Need Cape Town accommodation? We've got you covered with a range of beautiful, family-friendly homes and apartments, perfectly located for your next adventure. Check out Nox Cape Town or contact our reservations team for more information.