Is 1 Week Enough for Cape Town with Kids?
Yes, absolutely! One week in Cape Town is the perfect amount of time to experience the city’s best family-friendly highlights: Table Mountain, Boulders Beach penguins, the Cape of Good Hope, Kirstenbosch Gardens, Lion’s Head, and the V&A Waterfront – without rushing or exhausting your kids.
1 Week Cape Town Itinerary for Families
Cape Town is such a family-friendly place. Between mountain and sea, playgrounds under palm trees, and cafés that serve babyccinos as beautifully as cappuccinos — it’s a city that works surprisingly well with kids.
We’ve been living here for over a month now, in the leafy Southern Suburbs of Constantia. Our girls, Ruby (4) and Lila (8), go to school nearby, while my husband works from home and I write from cafés.
This one-week itinerary is exactly what we’d plan if you were visiting us. It’s a mix of must-sees, local favorites, and everyday family spots that will make your family time in Cape Town much easier (because happy kids = happy parents).
👉 Don’t have time to read the whole article? These are the best Cape Town Tours!
👉 Find Family-Friendly Hotels in Cape Town.
Overview – Our 7 Days in Cape Town
Where to Stay with Kids in Cape Town
Let’s start with the most important factor of your stay: The area. We’ve stayed in different parts of Cape Town, and these are the ones where we felt safest as a family.
Constantia & the Southern Suburbs
This is where we live right now. And honestly, it’s heaven for families. It’s quiet, full of trees and vineyards, and close to both the mountains and the beach. You’ll find playground cafés, forests, and parks where you can actually relax.
Why we love it: Our girls can roam in peace, baboons occasionally walk past or steal food (yes, really), and we can reach the ocean in 20 minutes.
Family picks:
The Alphen Boutique Hotel – Constantia
- From $320 (€295) per night (Suite)
- Historic 5-star estate with lush gardens, three restaurants, and family-friendly luxury
The Olive Cottage – Constantia
- From $126 (€115) per night (One-Bedroom Apartment)
- Elegant self-catering cottage with a fireplace, private garden, and fully equipped kitchen
Sea Point & Green Point
This area feels young and walkable. The promenade is the big draw. You’ll see kids on scooters, runners, dogs, and some of the best playgrounds in the city.
Family picks:
The Winchester Hotel – Sea Point
- From $277 (€255) per night (Loft Room with breakfast)
- Historic seafront hotel with elegant Cape Dutch architecture
Sea Point Solace
- From $134 (€120) per night
- Stylish, family-friendly apartment with a rooftop pool, balcony, and sea view
City Bowl (Gardens, Tamboerskloof, Oranjezicht)
If you love cafés, culture, and waking up to Table Mountain views, this is your spot. It’s mostly safe during the day (just avoid walking around at night), central, and full of energy. Personally, I prefer the quieter, greener suburbs. But if you enjoy a vibrant city vibe with everything at your doorstep, these areas are a great choice.
Family picks:
Cloud 9 – Tamboerskloof (Gardens)
- From $373 (€335) per night (Heritage Deluxe Family Room)
- Boutique stay at the foot of Table Mountain
Cape Riviera Guesthouse – Oranjezicht
- From $149 (€134) per night (Superior Triple Room)
- Charming guesthouse in a quiet, safe Oranjezicht location
Camps Bay & Clifton
Pure holiday perfection. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but those sunsets are worth every cent. If you can, choose accommodation a little higher up in the hills. The views are even better, and you’ll avoid the heavy traffic that builds up along the beachfront road when everyone heads down to watch the sunset.
Family pick:
Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
- From $400 (€431) per night (Classic Room)
- Rooms with ocean views, kids staying free, 2 pools, gardens, and even a private cinema
👉 You might also like:
– Living in Cape Town with Kids – What It’s Really Like
– Lion’s Head Hike with Kids – Is It Safe? Honest Family Guide
– Cape of Good Hope Day Trip – Family Fun in South Africa
– See Penguins in Cape Town – Boulders Beach with Kids
Day 1 – Arrival & V&A Waterfront
After a long flight, don’t plan too much. Check into your hotel or Airbnb, unpack a little, and head straight to the V&A Waterfront for a relaxed first afternoon.
Let the kids burn off energy at the playground while you grab a smoothie or coffee and sit by the water watching seals pop their heads out between the boats. There’s usually live African music around — drums, marimbas, or singers performing near the amphitheater. This gives you a first little taste of Cape Town’s rhythm and culture.
Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre
Opening hours: Shops & restaurants 9:00 am – 9:00 pm daily
Good to know: Free parking for the first hour; plenty of pram-friendly paths in the whole area.
Day 2 – Table Mountain + Bo-Kaap + Company’s Garden
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
Start your day with one of Cape Town’s biggest highlights: Table Mountain. Go early, as the cable car often stops running when it gets windy in the afternoon. I always buy the tickets online beforehand. You save money and time.
Up top, walk the short Dassie Trail (named after the furry rock rabbits you’ll spot), have a snack (their Chai Latte is pretty good), and soak up the views.
Opening hours: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm (weather and season dependent, check their official website)
Tickets: Adults R450 ($23), Kids 4–17 R225 ($12)
Bo-Kaap
After visiting Table Mountain, drive just ten minutes to Bo-Kaap, Cape Town’s most colorful neighborhood and one of its oldest. The area is famous for its rows of bright, pastel-painted houses, cobbled streets, and rich Cape Malay culture.
We always park near Chiappini Street — it’s quiet, safe, and perfect for a slow walk. You’ll instantly notice the lively mix of colors: turquoise, pink, lime, and yellow houses lined up under Table Mountain’s backdrop.
Kids love it here because it feels like walking through a rainbow village.
Afterward, you can walk along Bree Street for a coffee or lunch. It is full of trendy cafés and still quite family-friendly. I like The Ladder in Bree Street because it has a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and great huge matcha lattes. Here’s where the Cape Townians and Digital Nomads come to work and play board games.
Company’s Garden & Iziko Museum
Head just a few minutes down the road to the Company’s Garden. This is one of the easiest and most relaxed places in central Cape Town to visit with kids. It’s safe, shaded, and there’s also a small playground with swings. It’s clean, fenced, and feels surprisingly calm for being right in the middle of the city.
Next door, you’ll find the Iziko South African Museum, which is great for a short educational break. It has life-sized dinosaur skeletons, a planetarium, and interesting exhibits about wildlife and culture — perfect for curious kids aged 4 and up.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 09h00 – 17h00, Winter weekends: Saturdays & Sundays 08h30 – 16h00
Tickets: Adults: R80 ($4), Kids (ages 5–17): R80 ($4)
Day 3 – Camps Bay + Sea Point Promenade + Hout Bay
Camps Bay
Start the morning at Camps Bay Beach, one of Cape Town’s most famous and beautiful stretches of sand. The beach is wide, clean, and lined with cafés and small shops. Lifeguards are on duty, and the Camps Bay Tidal Pool on the southern end is the safest area for kids to swim. It’s protected from waves and has clear, shallow water — perfect for little ones.
That said, the Atlantic Ocean here is freezing all year round. Even in summer, most people just dip their toes or jump in for a few brave seconds before running back out. So don’t expect a warm-water beach holiday like in Thailand — Cape Town beaches are more about sandcastles, picnics, and the view.
Parking can get tricky after 10 am, so it’s best to arrive early. The most convenient spot is the main parking area next to the Camps Bay Football Club (Google Maps Location). It’s safe, well-located, and usually costs around R60, which is quite pricey for a few hours but worth it for the easy access.
For lunch, stop at Café Caprice, right across the street. They serve all-day breakfast, good smoothies, and sandwiches, and you can still watch the ocean while you eat. I also recommend Gelato Mania Camps Bay. It has terrible reviews on Google Maps, but we love it.
Sea Point
After lunch, head over to the Sea Point Promenade for a walk and playground adventure. The wide pathway runs along the coastline for several kilometers, passing playgrounds, food trucks, and public art. Families love it because it’s flat, safe, and stroller-friendly. There’s also an open-air gym, mini golf, and ice cream stands along the way.
Hout Bay
In the late afternoon, drive 20 minutes to Hout Bay and take a short seal-watching boat ride to Duiker Island. The trip lasts about 40 minutes round-trip, and it’s an easy adventure for kids. You’ll see hundreds of Cape fur seals lounging on the rocks or swimming around the boat.
Seal-Watching
Duration: 40 minutes round trip
Tickets: Adults R139 ($7), Kids R75 ($3,50)
Boat companies: Drumbeat Charters or Nauticat, both at the Hout Bay Harbor
End the day with dinner at Dunes Beach Restaurant & Bar, right on Hout Bay Beach. The food is simple, but the view and the big playground right in the sand make it a great family spot. Kids can dig and play while you finish your meal with the sound of the waves in the background.
Day 4 – Cape Peninsula Day Trip
This is our favorite family day. It’s long and may be exhausting, but unforgettable!
Chapman’s Peak Drive
One of the most scenic drives in the world — and it’s right here between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. The road winds dramatically along steep cliffs with the Atlantic Ocean sparkling below. It’s only about nine kilometers long, but you’ll want to stop often for photos.
There are several safe pull-off areas with benches and incredible views. On clear days, you might even spot dolphins or whales in the distance.
Toll: R66 ($3.50) per car
Open: 6 am – 8 pm (depending on the season)
Important: Check the current road status on the official website.
Boulders Beach – African Penguins
Seeing penguins up close is a highlight for every family visiting Cape Town. Boulders Beach is part of Table Mountain National Park, and it’s the only place in South Africa where you can walk among a colony of endangered African penguins.
The wooden boardwalks make it easy for kids and strollers, and the beach itself is calm, sheltered, and perfect for paddling. Try to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid tour buses and enjoy softer light for photos.
Check out my full guide here: Visiting the Penguins in Cape Town with Kids
Opening hours: 8 am – 5 pm
Tickets: Adults R190 ($10), Kids R95 ($5)
Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope
Many people think this is where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet — but that’s actually a bit further east at Cape Agulhas. Still, this place feels wild, remote, and absolutely stunning.
Drive slowly through the national park, as baboons often sit along the road. Once at the top, you can hike or take the funicular if you’re tired. The views are breathtaking: rugged cliffs, turquoise water, and endless coastline. Bring a light jacket — it’s always windy up there! The small visitor center and café near the parking area are also good for a quick stop before heading back.
You can find all you need to know about a day at Cape Point in this article.
Cape Point National Park
Opening hours: 6 am – 6 pm
Tickets: Adults R400 ($21), Kids R200 ($10)
On the return journey, we love stopping at Noordhoek Farm Village for coffee and a treat. There’s a wooden playground shaded by big trees, local shops, and relaxed restaurants.
Sometimes we end up staying longer than planned, especially when we grab a pizza at Café Roux. They have a proper stone oven, and you can watch your kids play on the playground.
Day 5 – Kirstenbosch Gardens + Tokai Forest + Muizenberg Beach Huts
This is the perfect combo: nature, good coffee, and seaside fun — all within a short drive from each other.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
Kirstenbosch is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, tucked against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. You can easily spend half a day wandering between shaded lawns, exotic flowers, and mountain views. We always bring a picnic blanket and snacks — the girls love rolling down the grassy hills for hours while we relax in the sun.
Don’t miss the Tree Canopy Walkway (nicknamed the “Boomslang”), a curving bridge that takes you through the treetops with breathtaking views of the gardens below. If you visit on a Sunday in summer, there are often live concerts.
Opening hours: 8 am – 6 pm
Tickets: Adults R250 ($12.50), Kids 6–17 R40 ($2)
Tokai Forest & Secret Forest Café
From Kirstenbosch, it’s only a 15-minute drive to Tokai Forest, one of our favorite weekend spots. Tall pine trees, wide trails, and plenty of shade make it perfect for little legs and dog lovers alike. The air smells like pine and earth.
The Secret Forest Café, tucked inside the forest, serves excellent cappuccinos, fresh pastries, simple breakfasts, and dog treats (Ruby loved to buy a pack and gave it to all the dogs around).
When you walk deeper into the forest, you will find two huge tree swings. As you can see in the photo, it’s not only for kids.
Café hours: Monday–Friday 7 am–4:30 pm / Saturday–Sunday 7:30 am–4 pm
Muizenberg Beach & Surf Lessons
End your day by heading to the coast. Muizenberg is famous for its colorful beach huts and long sandy stretch that feels endless. The water is chilly (really chilly!), but the gentle waves are ideal for beginners. Surf schools line the beach, and they’re great with kids — patient, fun, and focused on safety.
Even if you don’t surf, it’s a lovely place to walk, people-watch, and soak in the atmosphere. We always finish with a packet of hot chips from one of the beach cafés and a slow stroll along the promenade, watching the surfers catch their last waves. Beware: it can get incredibly windy here!
Surf hire: from R100 ($5) per hour
Lessons: from R600 ($31)
Day 6 – Constantia Winelands + Blockhouse Kitchen + Cool Runnings Toboggan
By Day 6, we usually slow things down a bit. After a few busy sightseeing days, this one’s all about good food, green spaces, and something fun for the kids at the end.
Groot Constantia Estate
Start your morning at Groot Constantia, South Africa’s oldest wine estate, founded in 1685. The drive through Constantia Valley alone is beautiful — tree-lined roads, mountain views, and calm countryside just 20 minutes from central Cape Town. The estate itself is family-friendly, with huge lawns, fountains, and ducks wandering between the vines.
While you sample some of the estate’s award-winning wines, the kids can run freely on the grass or explore the paths between the old Cape Dutch buildings. There’s also a small museum inside the manor house that gives a glimpse of the estate’s history. If you prefer a sit-down experience, Jonkershuis Restaurant serves great local dishes and has outdoor seating under the trees.
Opening hours: 9 am – 6 pm / Wine tasting: from R130 ($7)
Lunch at Blockhouse Kitchen – Constantia Nek
Just a short 10-minute drive from Groot Constantia, Blockhouse Kitchen is one of our go-to lunch and breakfast spots in Cape Town. It’s set in a stunning location at Constantia Nek, with mountain views and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for families.
What makes it even better is the big wooden playground shaded by tall trees right next to the outdoor seating area. You can actually enjoy your meal while keeping an eye on the kids. And yes, watch out for baboons — they sometimes stroll in as if they own the place. We once had the kids’ waffles stolen right off the plates! It’s funny now, but it’s good to flee inside when they’re around.
Opening hours: 8 am – 9 pm daily
Cool Runnings Toboggan Park (Bellville)
End the day with something completely different — a bit of adrenaline. Cool Runnings in Bellville is Africa’s only toboggan track, and it’s much more professional than you might expect. The ride takes place on a steel track that winds down the hillside, and you control your own speed with a hand brake — slow and scenic or fast and thrilling, up to you.
While it’s a really fun adventure, keep in mind that it can be busy and loud (like in a proper amusement park). Only go if no one is tired or hungry (IYKYK).
Here’s my full guide to tobogganing in Cape Town with kids.
Opening hours: Weekdays 11 am – 6 pm; Weekends 9 am – 6 pm
Tickets: Single R100 ($5); Family Combo R990 ($50) for 16 rides
Day 7 – Lion’s Head & Farewell Sunset
Lion’s Head Hike
End your Cape Town week with a bit of adventure. The Lion’s Head hike starts just ten minutes from the city and offers one of the best views in South Africa. The first part is wide and easy, the middle gets steeper, and the last section includes ladders and chains — or a detour path if you’d rather skip climbing.
It’s doable for kids from around seven years old (read my full guide of Hiking Lion’s Head with kids here). Lila loved the rope section and was so proud to reach the top. From up there, you see Camps Bay, Table Mountain, and Robben Island all at once. Bring water, snacks, hats, and sunscreen — there’s no shade on the trail.
Go early morning for cooler weather or late afternoon for golden light. If you stay for sunset, take a headlamp for the way down. It’s a short but unforgettable hike — the perfect family finale to your Cape Town week.
Farewell Sunset at Signal Hill
For the final sunset of the week, Signal Hill is our spot. It’s easy to reach by car, and the view over Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and the city lights is breathtaking. Bring a picnic blanket, a few snacks, and maybe a bottle of wine — everyone does. The vibe is friendly and relaxed, with locals clapping as the sun dips below the horizon.
Expect some traffic after sunset as everyone wants to go home by then.
Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Cape Town Trip
- Check the wind before Table Mountain and book Cable Car tickets online.
- Pack snacks + water — some parks and beaches have no shops nearby.
- Always bring layers — Cape Town can be hot and freezing on the same day.
- Sunscreen & hats always — the UV is no joke.
- Rent a small car — driving is easy and safe with basic caution.
- Use Uber at night — cheap and reliable.
- Playgrounds we love: Deer Park Café (Gardens), Blockhouse Kitchen (Constantia), Dunes (Hout Bay), Noordhoek Farm Village.
- Indoor backups: PlayStation by Rush and Varsity Club (Plumstead).
Key Takeaways
- One week is plenty — you’ll see Table Mountain, penguins, Cape Point, and still have beach days.
- Stay in the Suburbs (Constantia, Claremont, Newlands…), the north (Lagoon Beach) or Sea Point for the easiest family base.
- Pre-book major attractions and swap days around if the weather changes.
- Add a slow day in the Winelands
- Cape Town feels safe with common-sense habits. Read all safety tips here.
Final Thoughts
This is it — everything I know to help you plan an unforgettable family adventure in Cape Town. From mountain hikes to penguin beaches, forest walks, and sunset picnics — I’m sure you will have an amazing time with your family here!
Book your Cape Town family trip right here!
Do you have any questions left? Or did I miss your secret Cape Town tip? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
FAQ About Visiting Cape Town with Kids
Is Cape Town a good idea for a family vacation?
Yes! Cape Town is one of the best places in the world for a family trip. You get mountains, beaches, wildlife, and culture all in one city. We really love the balance of adventure and calm. One morning, you’re at the top of Table Mountain, the next, you’re meeting penguins at Boulders Beach or walking through Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
What’s the best time of year to visit Cape Town with kids?
The best time is during the dry season, from November to March. Days are warm, skies are clear, and it’s perfect for the beach or outdoor adventures. If you want fewer crowds and better value, visit in April, May, or October — still a good time with mild weather and cheaper prices.
How many days do you need for a family trip to Cape Town?
One week is ideal. It gives you enough time for all the top family-friendly attractions — Table Mountain, Cape Point, the Cape Winelands, and the V&A Waterfront — without rushing the kids. If you have more time, add a return trip up the Garden Route or a few days in the Eastern Cape for a wildlife sanctuary or private game reserve.
Can you hike Table Mountain or Lion’s Head with younger children?
Yes, but choose the route wisely. The Lion’s Head trail is fun for older kids (7+), while the Skeleton Gorge route up Table Mountain is better for experienced hikers. With younger children, take the Table Mountain Cableway to the top — it’s safe, scenic, and gives you that iconic view without the climb.
What are the best things to do with kids in Cape Town?
Our favorites are:
- Penguins of Boulders Beach
- Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
- Sea Point Promenade playgrounds
- Cool Runnings Toboggan Park
- Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
- V&A Waterfront
- Camps Bay Beach
Is Cape Town safe for families and first-time visitors?
Cape Town is a great place for families if you use common sense. Stick to safe areas like Sea Point, Camps Bay, Constantia, and the Southern Suburbs. Use Uber at night, avoid showing valuables, and check local advice about strong winds or road closures. We’ve lived here for months and always felt comfortable exploring with our kids.
Is it easy to get around Cape Town with kids?
Yes, renting a small car is the best way. Roads are good, driving feels safe, and parking is easy in most places. A rental car also gives you freedom to explore Cape Point National Park, and beaches outside the city. Uber is reliable for short rides within the city.
What are the best places for a full-day family trip near Cape Town?
- Cape Peninsula Day Trip – Chapman’s Peak, penguins at Simon’s Town, and the Cape of Good Hope.
- Constantia Winelands – beautiful estates, lawns, and local restaurants with playgrounds.
- Hermanus – about two hours away, great for whale watching (June–November).
- Buffels Bay or Noordhoek Beach – calm and less crowded.
Each is a great spot for the whole family and shows a different side of the Western Cape.
What if we only have a few days in Cape Town?
Focus on the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, and Cape Point. They’re easy to reach from most hotels and give you a full Cape Town experience — mountain, ocean, and wildlife. Even a short walk at Kirstenbosch or an hour at the Cape Wheel will make it feel like you’ve seen a lot.
