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Heat up your romance with the best things to do in Cape Town for couples

| Last Updated: July 2024

Have you ever considered Cape Town as a destination for a dreamy couples’ escape?

If you think it offers just the jaw-dropping Table Mountain views or the romantic Atlantic sunsets, think again! There are endless things to do in Cape Town for couples that’ll make you want to tie the knot all over again!

Why don’t you and your partner start planning your romantic getaway to Cape Town now? Let’s explore the best of the best, shall we?

Embark on a luxury sunset cruise with V&A Waterfront

Website: https://waterfrontboattours.co.za/ 

Address: Shop 6A, Quay 5, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Phone: +27 (0)21 419 8951

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 7 PM

One of the best ways to spend an evening is on a sunset cruise with Waterfront Boat Tours. With a good selection of local drinks available, it’s a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the city’s beauty.

We hopped on the 47-ft Powercat called Une Belle Vie and found cosy spots on the upper deck with our glasses of sparkling wine. As we cruised away from the V&A Waterfront, the views of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head were absolutely stunning.

Watching the sun dip into the ocean with the wind in our hair felt magical. The fresh ocean air and the sound of the waves added to the romantic atmosphere. 

Pro Tip:
For a seamless start to your maritime adventure, make it a point to arrive at the check-in office at least 20 minutes early. This not only secures your spot but also respects the punctual departure schedule.

Board a hot-air balloon over Cape Town’s Winelands

Website: https://ballooningcapetown.co.za/ 

Address: Joostenberg Bistro, Klein Joostenberg, R304, Kraaifontein

Phone: +27 67 662 9125

There are so many ways to experience our beautiful city, but few are as exciting—or romantic—as riding in a hot-air balloon. 

We started with pre-flight coffee while watching the setup, which made us excited about what lay ahead. Boarding the balloon, there was a sense of anticipation as we rose into the sky, leaving the city behind for rolling vineyards and grand mountains.

For a solid hour, we just floated, taking in the incredible scenery below. Once we touched down, we celebrated with a drink and then headed back to where we started for a delicious breakfast at Joostenberg Bistro. 

Pro Tip:
Opt for snug, flat-soled shoes to maintain balance during takeoff and landing. Choose comfortable, non-restrictive clothing that allows for easy movement and can be layered to adjust to changing temperatures at different altitudes.

Ride horses at Noordhoek Beach

Media from tazzadams

Website: https://horseridingcapetown.com/noordhoek-beach-rides/ 

Address: Kommetjie, Noordhoek

Phone: +27 (0) 76 251 8584

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 3:30 PM

Riding on Noordhoek Beach felt like stepping into a postcard. As we got ready for our horseback ride, the scenery around Kommetjie was just stunning. 

We started off going through these marshy areas, which was cool, then bam, we hit the beach.

The beach just went on and on, and you could see Chapman’s Peak like a giant guardian in the distance. Then, we passed by the Kakapo shipwreck, a striking sight with its tale of maritime misfortune dating back to 1900. 

Pro Tip:
When mounting a horse, always remember that your confidence and calmness are key; your horse can sense your emotions and will respond in kind. Ensure a smooth mount by using the stirrup for your left foot and the reins in your left hand.

Try wine tasting at Beau Constantia

Website: https://www.beauconstantia.com/ 

Address: 1043 Constantia Main Rd, Constantia

Phone: +27 21 794 8632

Operating Hours:

  • Tuesday to Thursday – 11 AM to 6 PM
  • Friday to Sunday – 11 AM to 7 PM

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of the Western Cape, Beau Constantia is a gem for couples like us. We recently indulged in a wine-tasting experience there, and it was simply divine.

The guided tasting took us through a variety of wines. Some notable ones are Karin with its chamomile and pomegranate notes and Lucca, a spicy blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot.

But it’s not just about the wine; the setting itself is breathtaking. Picture-perfect vineyards stretched out before us, framed by majestic mountains. 

Pro Tips:
Arrive early to secure a spot near the amphitheatre, and enhance your wine-tasting experience with a scenic picnic setup. Remember to chill your bottle of wine before enjoying it, so you can fully appreciate its flavours.

Paint ceramics at Clay Café

Website: https://claycafe.co.za/ 

Address: Clay Cafe, Main Rd, Hout Bay

Phone: +27 71 685 4934

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 5 PM

Tucked away in Hout Bay, there’s this gem called the Clay Café. My partner and I are regulars there, and we absolutely love the whole DIY ceramic painting thing they have going on. It’s such a fun date idea.

You walk in, pick out your ceramic piece, grab some paint, and get to work. The best part is taking home your creations. It’s like a little memory you can keep!

The atmosphere is lively, with good vibes all around. Moreover, the pizza they serve is top-notch, but we’ve found some of the other dishes a bit bland. 

Pro Tip:
Head to the cafe on Date Night Wednesdays for a delightful two-course meal and a bottle of wine, all while enjoying live tunes and painting ceramics together. 

Experience penguin watching at Boulders Beach

Media from enchanting.travels

Address: Simon’s Town

Phone: +27 21 786 2329

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 8 AM to 5 PM

Boulders Beach boasts a charming colony of African penguins that truly steal the show. We were fascinated by these adorable creatures as they went about their daily routines, waddling and swimming in the clear blue waters of the sheltered cove.

Beyond the penguins, the beach itself is perfect for a dip in the ocean. The water is surprisingly warm, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun.

Pro Tip:
For an easy stroll, we suggest taking the left path, which offers flat terrain and excellent views of the penguins. The right path, while scenic, involves more steps and may not be suitable for everyone. 

Drive leisurely along Chapman’s Peak Drive

Website: https://www.chapmanspeakdrive.co.za/

Chapman’s Peak Drive, or Chappies as we locals call it, is a must-do in Cape Town. The drive hugs the coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean and mountains.

You can’t help but stop at the lookout points to snap a few photos. They’re just too good to pass up!

The sunset drives here are stunning, with the sky transforming into a blend of pinks and oranges. The engineering of the road, including bridges and tunnels carved into the mountainside, adds an extra touch of adventure to the journey.

Pro Tip:
Consider travelling from Noordhoek to Hout Bay. This route allows you to drive alongside the cliff edges, making it convenient to stop and soak in the views without crossing traffic. 

Hike Lion’s Head for sunrise

Address: Signal Hill Road

Lion’s Head is one of those places in Cape Town where you just have to experience a sunrise hike.

We decided to give it a shot one weekend, and it turned out to be quite the adventure. The hike itself was tougher than we expected, especially towards the top where we had to navigate through some tricky boulders. 

The view up there was totally worth it. Once we reached the summit, we were greeted by an incredible 360º panorama of the city, the ocean, and of course, Table Mountain. 

Pro Tip:
Always remember to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, and indeed, carry at least two litres of water per person to stay hydrated. 

Book a scenic flight with Cape Town Helicopters

Website: https://www.helicopterscapetown.co.za/ 

Address: 36 E Pier Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront,

Phone: +27 21 418 9462

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 8 AM to 6 PM

Cape Town Helicopters is an absolute must-do for couples seeking an unforgettable adventure in our beautiful city. We took the Hopper Helicopter Flight tour, and it was beyond anything we could have imagined. 

The views are spectacular, especially as you fly over the Atlantic Seaboard beaches. You’ll see Cape Town Stadium, Lions Head, and the gorgeous shores of Clifton and Camps Bay.

There’s something truly special about sharing such an intimate moment high above the world with your loved one. It’s a memory that we’ll cherish forever.

Pro Tip:
To capture the breathtaking views without any glare, opt for wearing dark clothing when taking a helicopter tour. Darker hues will minimise reflections on the windows, ensuring your photos are as clear and stunning as the scenery itself.

Attend a Screening at Galileo Open Air Cinema

Website: https://thegalileo.co.za/ 

Phone: +27 71 471 8728

Galileo Open Air Cinema offers a magical experience under the stars, perfect for a romantic evening. The venue boasts an incredible atmosphere with stunning views, creating a setting that feels almost otherworldly.

We arrived early, set up our cosy seating area, and took a leisurely stroll around, soaking in the beautiful scenery.

The variety of food trucks provided delicious options, though we wished for more halal choices. The friendly ushers enhanced our night, especially with their efforts to entertain the children. 

Pro Tip:
Always pack an additional blanket—even if the day is warm, temperatures can plummet after sunset. 

Visit an art exhibition at the Norval Foundation

Website: https://www.norvalfoundation.org/ 

Address: 4 Steenberg Rd, Tokai

Phone: +27 87 654 5900

Operating Hours:

  • Wednesday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM

The Norval Foundation is a special place dedicated to showcasing 20th- and 21st-century visual art. When we visited, we were impressed by how the pavilions, designed by Heatherwick Studio, blended perfectly with the landscape. 

Inside, we explored a variety of exhibitions, from vibrant paintings and detailed sculptures to intriguing photography and modern media.

The sculpture garden was a highlight for us. We spent a lovely afternoon wandering around the grounds, enjoying the art and the beautiful scenery.

Pro Tips:
Pair your visit with a culinary adventure at Grub & Vine Norval, situated at the museum. We recommend ordering the Summer Du Jour menu, featuring canapés and scallops that are as delightful as the art on display.

Join a street art tour in Woodstock

Website: https://www.jumaarttours.co.za/woodstock-street-art-tour 

Address: Woodstock Exchange, 66 Albert Road, Woodstock

Woodstock, once a bustling seaside resort and now a semi-industrial area, has transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and hip coffee shops. So, we decided to join Juma’s street art tour, and it was a blast.

Juma is like your friendly neighbour who knows everything about the murals and the artists behind them. As we walked, he shared stories about social issues and community empowerment reflected in the art.

We even stumbled upon this vibrant mural showcasing local flora, which was pretty cool. The tour starts at the Woodstock Exchange and takes about an hour or so, but it’s worth every minute to see the positive change happening through art.

Pro Tip:
Stretch before you start and take stretch breaks during the tour to keep your muscles happy. This simple step can make your walk more comfortable and enjoyable, letting you focus on the amazing art around you!

Wander Bo-Kaap’s vibrant streets

Media from capetowngetaway

Bo-Kaap is a vibrant neighbourhood in Cape Town that really caught our eye. The colourful houses lifted our spirits and got us excited to explore.

It’s kind of funny because, despite all the bright colours, the area has a bit of a heavy history. Back in the day, it was where slaves lived after being brought to the Cape by the Dutch.

But walking through those streets, you wouldn’t necessarily feel that weight. It’s like the past is painted over by the present.

Pro Tips:
Check out the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn more about the area’s background. Also, visit some cool shops around with loads of traditional African art, which you’ll love browsing through.

Snorkel with seals with Animal Ocean

Website: https://www.animalocean.co.za/ 

Address: 8 Albert Road, Hout Bay

Phone: +27 72 296 9132

Duiker Island, near Hout Bay, offers the chance to snorkel with Cape Fur seals. For my partner and me, snorkelling was a great way to enjoy the water without braving the cold depths of diving.

Animal Ocean, the go-to for marine wildlife experiences, set us up for the trip. Clad in thick wetsuits and vests to keep the cold Atlantic at bay, we hopped on a boat from the harbour to the island.

Once we got into the water, it was amazing to see these seals up close, swimming around us like curious little puppies. After about 30 minutes or so, we hopped back on the boat where they had hot chocolate and biscuits waiting for us.

Pro Tips:
For the best seal snorkelling experience, aim for the summer months from November to March when the weather is warm and the water conditions are ideal.

Go quad-biking at Atlantis Dunes

Website: https://www.wildx.co.za/ 

Address: 0 Dassenberg Dr, Atlantis

Phone: +27 82 066 1197

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 8 AM 5 6 PM

Atlantis Dunes is this massive stretch of sand just outside Cape Town. Riding those quad bikes there with WildX was a blast.

The soft, white sand dunes, some as high as 50 metres, provided a picturesque backdrop for our escapade. Guided by knowledgeable instructors, we felt safe and confident exploring the area, despite our lack of prior experience.

After our 50-minute ride, we were already planning our next visit to tackle sandboarding. 

Pro Tip:
Secure your permits for quad-biking in advance. Arriving early will help you beat the rush and sort out any necessary paperwork, ensuring you have more time to enjoy the dunes!
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