Cape Town Attractions
Cape Town Attractions – There are few things South Africans enjoy more than a braai (barbecue) and there are few better places than these Cape Town spots to appreciate the great outdoors. So prep that meat and pack the grill…
Miller’s Point Resort
Drive a few kilometres out of Simon’s Town (after you’ve done your whale watching) on the road to Cape Point, and you’ll spot Miller’s Point Resort. Set at the bottom of the Swartklip Mountains, this little spot offers up a lot of dramatic beauty for the meagre R12 you’ll pay to get in. While you’re waiting for your nosh – and, let’s be honest, braais involve a fair deal of waiting – take advantage of the beach’s sheltered swimming areas.
Website: www.capetown.gov.za/
Entry: R12 adults, R6 children
Contact: 021 786 1142/5503
Buffels Bay, Cape Point
Admittedly, compared to some of the other spots on this list, the fee to get in to the Cape Point section of the Table Mountain National Park is a little steep. But where else do you get to braai alongside buck and Cape Mountain Zebra. Plus, the spectacular views are totally worth it. Cape Point is also home to Chacma baboons and they can get a little aggressive when food is at stake, so be weary. It’s also worth noting the south-easter can really blow this side of the peninsula, so avoid this spot on blustery days. You’ll need to bring your own braai paraphernalia.
Website: www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/
Entry: R125 adults, R65 children
Contact: 021 780 9204
Oudekraal
Between Llandudno and Camps Bay on the Atlantic seaboard, you’ll find Oudekraal. There are about 40 braai spots on the lawns above small protected coves and sandy beaches. They get snatched up quickly, so be sure to arrive early. The sea here is calm and if you don’t mind the cold perfect for swimming. During winter, this spot is closed during the week, but is open on weekends and public holidays. While it is probably best to bring everything you need with you, Linda’s Tuck Shop at the venue does stock braai wood, charcoal, and a small selection of snacks and cold drinks. You can also rent an umbrella and braai grid.
If you don’t want to pay an entrance fee, the nearby Maiden’s Cove – between Clifton and Glen Beach – offers up a similar, albeit less exclusive experience.
Website: www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/
Entry: R35 adults, R20 children
Contact: 021 438 9555
Little Bay
Little Bay in Blouberg, which is just a 20-minute drive from Cape Town, is a great choice for families. Kids can play on the beach while their parents chill on the lawn-covered braai area. The view of Table Mountain from this stretch of coast is the stuff postcards are made of. The wind can get a little nasty, so check the weather report before heading out.
Entry: free!
Tokai Forest
Spend a lazy Sunday afternoon under the tall pine trees at the Tokai Forest braai area. Perennially popular, this braai area, which is situated on the edge of the Tokai Plantation, offers up plenty of space and is a good starting point for walks through the plantation. Be warned though, troops of Chacma baboons do occasionally come down to the picnic site from the mountain, and can be aggressive if confronted.
Website: www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/tourism/activities.php
Entry: R25 adults, R15 children
Contact: 021 712 7471
Wynberg Park
A favourite among locals, Wynberg Park, which is situated on the corner of Klaasens and Trovato Link roads, offers up 22 hectares of beautiful gardens. The source of the Krakeelwater River, the park is well known for its conifer garden and the colourful display of hydrangeas in the summer. For the kids, there’s a playground and a duck pond, and the luscious lawns are great for picnics and braais.
Website: www.capetown.gov.za/en/parks/facilities/Pages/WynbergPark.aspx
Entry: free!
Contact: 021 710 9403
Newlands Forest
Conveniently situated just off the M3, the Newlands Forest picnic and braai area offers up numerous secluded braai spots under the shade of tall pine trees. You can use one of the built-in braai pits or bring along your own portable version. Although this area is closed during the winter months, it is very popular in summer, especially over the weekends. If you want to earn those lamb chops, the braai area serves as the starting point for several hiking trails. As is the case with all public spaces, the consumption of alcohol is prohibited.
Website: www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/tourism/activities.php
Entry: R25 adults, R15 children
Contact: 021 712 7471
Helderberg Farm
If you find yourself in the northern suburbs, Helderberg Farm, which is roughly 12km from Stellenbosch, is a fantastic option. Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, the farm offers up a selection of activities – hiking, paintball, trail running, and strawberry picking – as well as braai areas. You can opt for the general braai area or, if you’re after something a little more exclusive, one of the private braai spots in Granny’s Forest. Booking during the summer season is recommended. You can buy charcoal at the farm, but need to bring along your own wood and braai grid.
Website: www.helderbergplass.co.za
Entry: R50 adults, R25 children. Braai drum: R50.
Contact: 021 855 4308
