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Bond over great food and views at the 9 best picnic spots in Cape Town!
Spending time outdoors with a picnic is a nice way to take a break from city life. It can help reduce stress, lift your mood, and spark creativity. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with loved ones through good conversations and laughs.
When I was younger, my family and I used to go out for picnics on weekends. We’d find a quiet spot under a tree, spread out a blanket, share stories, and take in the view. Those moments really stuck with me.
If you’re looking to create memories like that, I’ve got some great picnic spots in Cape Town to share. Grab your basket and check them out!
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Media From: kirstenbosch_nbg
Address: Rhodes Dr, Newlands
Phone: +27 217 998 783
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Thursday – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Friday to Sunday – 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Website: https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch/
Admission Fees:
- Adult – R230
- Children 6 to 17 Years Old – R40
- Children Below 6 Years Old – Free
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a fantastic spot for a picnic. It’s famous for being the first garden dedicated to a country’s indigenous plants and is considered a cultural landmark.
The garden and nature reserve boast over 22,000 plant species, including rare and endangered ones like the Cape Sugarbird’s habitat plants.
There are plenty of places to spread your blanket—under shady trees, by the pond, and with Table Mountain as your backdrop.
When I visited, I was amazed by the variety of unique plants, each one vibrant in its own way. I found a quiet spot under a tree where I could hear birds chirping. The view was so majestic that I almost forgot about my packed food!
| Pro Tip: You don’t have to bring your own tables or chairs to the garden. Just ask for picnic hampers and other picnic essentials from the Kirstenbosch Tea Room and Moyo restaurant. |
Cape of Good Hope
Media From: larissanobrega
Address: Cape Point Rd
Phone: +27 217 809 526
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Website: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/
Admission Fees:
- Adult – R42
- Children – R21
Enjoy a picnic with good food and conversation while taking in ocean views at the Cape of Good Hope in Table Mountain National Park. This spot offers a front-row seat to the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
You can also try activities like horseback riding, hiking, or cycling to round out your visit.
Wildlife often roams the area, adding to its charm. Keep an eye out for baboons, ostriches, antelopes, and seabirds. They make the atmosphere feel truly untamed!
When I visited, I set up my picnic overlooking the endless stretch of ocean. The crashing waves and salty breeze felt magical!
| Pro Tip: Plan your picnic on a Sunday morning so you can join a free guided walk at Cape Point. |
Silvermine Nature Reserve
Media From: panzallderman
Address: Table Mountain National Park, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve)
Phone: +27 217 127 471
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Website: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/
Admission Fee:
- Adult – R50
- Children – R25
Silvermine Nature Reserve in Table Mountain National Park is another great spot for a picnic. It provides stunning vistas of the nearby mountains and coastline.
While you’re there, try their other activities like hiking and bird-watching!
Check out the Silvermine Reservoir. It’s surrounded by lush plants, and the still waters reflect the nearby mountains. The setting is peaceful, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy nature’s calm.
I had such a good time picnicking here. While I was relaxing on my blanket, I spotted a rare African fish eagle! Its white head and powerful talons were hard to miss as it glided overhead. Moments like that make this place truly special.
| Pro Tip: You may cook braai near the dam. However, during summer and early autumn, braai is only allowed at the designated braai areas to prevent any risk of wildfires. |
Green Point Park
Media From: iyoha_girls
Address: 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point
Phone: +27 214 444 258
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Greenpoint-Park-and-Biodiversity-Garden
Admission Fee: Free
Green Point Park is a great spot for a family picnic. The biodiversity garden is full of indigenous plants, and the wetlands are peaceful. Kids will love the two play parks, and there’s even an outdoor gym if you’re feeling active.
The park also focuses on sustainability, with rainwater harvesting, solar-powered lights, and recycling centers.
Sometimes, you can catch live performances here. Once, while picnicking with my family, a local band played nearby. Their music set the perfect vibe, and as the sun set, the park glowed with warm, golden light—a moment to remember.
| Pro Tip: Check its Facebook page for upcoming events. It’s a great way to add some extra fun to your picnic day! |
Rhebokskloof
Media From: rhebokskloofestate
Address: Noord Agter – Paarl Rd, Windmeul
Phone: +27 218 698 386
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Website: http://www.rhebokskloof.co.za/
Admission Fees:
- Adults – R395
- Children – R160
Looking for a romantic picnic spot? Try Rhebokskloof. The ancient trees offer great shade, and the views of lush vineyards and rolling hills are stunning.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also enjoy activities like mountain biking, hiking, or quad biking.
The picnic baskets are a highlight. They’re packed with gourmet treats and come with a bottle of wine from the Flatlock range—perfect for a relaxed outing.
My wife once surprised me with a picnic here, and it was a moment I’ll never forget. She chose a basket with tender beef tagliata, creamy hummus, cheese, carrot and cumin spread, a fresh baguette, and a velvety raspberry cheesecake. I still smile whenever I think about that day.
| Pro Tips: Add pizza to your picnic food by ordering at their pizzeria. Just remember to pre-book your picnic basket and pizza so everything is ready when you arrive. Make your date extra special! Book their moonlight picnics and enjoy a romantic evening under the moon. |
The Manor
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Media From: nederburgwine
Address: Sonstraal Rd, Dal Josaphat, Paarl
Phone: +27 218 775 155
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Friday – 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Saturday – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Website: https://www.nederburg.com/the-manor-restaurant/
Admission Fee: R540 per basket
The Manor at Nederburg Wine Estate is another great spot for a food-and-wine picnic. The setup here is lovely. There are blankets, pillows, and everything you need under big oak trees.
You can also have some fun with lawn games like croquet and giant Jenga.
I spent an afternoon here with friends. When we opened the picnic basket, we found a great mix of local treats, like chicken skewers, Sicilian aubergine caponata, and a chocolate brownie. There was also a bottle of Nederburg Cuvée Brut sparkling wine—perfect for chilling in the garden, especially after a game of croquet.
| Pro Tip: Set the perfect mood by bringing a portable speaker. Just make sure to keep the volume at a respectful level to maintain the serene ambiance of the estate. |
Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel
Media From: belmondmountnelsonhotel
Address: 76 Orange St, Gardens
Phone: +27 214 831 000
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Website: https://www.belmond.com/hotels/africa/south-africa/cape-town
Admission Fee:
- Adult – R550
- Child – R350
Treat the family to a relaxing picnic at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel. The lush garden is perfect, with blankets and pillows set up under a tall, old tree. They even provide everything you need—crockery, cutlery, and glasses.
For Mother’s Day, I took my wife and the kids to this hotel for a picnic. We had crispy fried chicken, homemade crackers, biltong, and mini cakes. And there was a wine from their Winemasters series for me and my wife to enjoy while watching the kids play in the garden.
You can spend your day lounging in the garden or join activities like garden yoga or culinary kombi tours.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on the Fynbos sunset walks! It’s a guided sunset walk that lets you explore and admire the natural beauty of the Cape at dusk. |
Newlands Forest Park
Media From: gaylefriedman
Address: Table Mountain National Park
Phone: +27 217 120 527
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Website: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/about/contact.php
Admission Fee:
- Adult – R38
- Children – R19
For a picnic surrounded by nature, head to Newlands Forest Park. With scenic views and peaceful streams, it’s the perfect spot to relax with family and friends.
I once had a picnic here with friends. Surrounded by tall trees, it was so peaceful. After eating, we soaked in the beauty of the forest by exploring the trails.
If you’re up for an adventure, you can also check out the hidden waterfalls or do some rock-hopping. Plus, it’s pet-friendly!
| Pro Tip: For a more peaceful vibe, have your picnic by the stream. The sound of flowing water and birds chirping adds to the calming atmosphere. |
Tokai Forest
Media From: sounds_in_the_forest
Address: Tokai Rd, Porter Reform Estate
Phone: +27 217 120 527
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Website: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/tourism/tariffs.php
Admission Fee:
- Adult – R40
- Children – R20
Another great picnic spot is Tokai Forest. You can enjoy your meal under tall pine trees, listening to the birds and the rustling leaves. There are plenty of spots to relax and take in the forest’s natural beauty.
When we settled into our picnic spot, the earthy scent of pine needles and the sound of a nearby stream made it feel like a perfect escape from the busy city. Afterward, we hiked up to take in the beautiful views of the Elephant’s Eye mountain range.
There’s also a lot to do here. You can explore trails like the Tokai Arboretum or hike to Elephant’s Eye Cave. If you’re into biking, the forest has well-maintained trails for all levels.
| Pro Tip: There’s a hidden gem inside Tokai Forest—the Secret Forest Café. Treat yourself to their freshly baked goods and excellent coffee while enjoying the forest surroundings. |
