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There’s nothing better than a fun day out with the kids – whether it’s during the school holidays, a long weekend, or just a spontaneous family outing. Finding a spot that keeps both kids and parents happy is key.
Here are over 50 venues across the country that cater to families with kid-friendly activities, dedicated kids’ menus, and play areas perfect for tiring the little ones out, while parents can enjoy a delicious plate of food and glass of wine.
Cape Town and surrounds
Aegir Project Brewery Noordhoek
(Noordhoek, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: Outdoor space to run, complete with a jungle gym, and dedicated menu for the kids.
Parent perks: Artisanal beers on tap, piping hot pizzas and burgers.
Why visit: A relaxed family-friendly spot with top-notch food, close to the beach and pet-friendly.
Moody Lagoon at Benguela Cove
(Fisherhaven, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A pirate-themed adventure park featuring an 18-hole mini-golf course and a splash pad with water tunnels and sprayers. There is also a dedicated menu!
Parent perks: Enjoy a quiet lunch on the veranda with panoramic views of the Bot River Lagoon, while sipping on estate wines served at cellar door prices.
Why visit: Scenic views of the lagoon and Atlantic Ocean from the large veranda.
Cape Point Vineyards Courtyard 
(Noordhoek, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: A large jungle gym, expansive lawns to run around, and a dedicated play area for toddlers.
Parent perks: Shaded deck seating close to the jungle gym, award-winning wine selection, al fresco dining, shaded patio, and picnic benches.
Why visit: Great food, stunning views, and a stress-free family outing.
Clay Café
(Multiple Locations)
Fun for the kids: Kids can unleash their inner artist and choose from a variety of ceramics to paint while enjoying a delicious bite to eat.
Parent perks: Join in the creative fun while sipping on an ice-cold beer or a crisp glass of wine and something delicious from the menu.
Why visit: Multiple venues across the Cape. Great for groups, parties and events.
Die Damhuis
(Melkbosstrand, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: A massive jungle gym and sandpit will keep the little ones entertained for hours.
Parent perks: Fresh seafood, an extensive wine list, and shaded outdoor seating.
Why visit: Ocean views make it the perfect spot for a laid-back family day by the beach.
De Oude Social Café
(Bellville, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: A grassy area to sprint, roll, and play, plus a wooden jungle gym and kids’ menu.
Parent perks: Delicious wood-fired pizza and live sport.
Why visit: Tempting weekly specials make it the perfect spot to meet up with friends and family.
De Vette Mossel – Hermanus
(Hermanus, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A massive wooden play area that includes a bridge, a climbing wall, and a sandpit. Older kids will love the zipline and trampoline, while everyone can enjoy traditional old-school games in a safe, sandy environment.
Parent perks: A 7-course seafood feast served rolling buffet style, featuring West Coast snoek, mussels, and freshly baked potbrood.
Why visit: It’s a unique, three-hour dining experience that feels like a beach party. Because it’s a set menu with all-you-can-eat portions, making it perfect for hungry families!
Folk Cafe St. James
(Muzienberg, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: A secure playground with a wooden jungle gym and a Little Folks breakfast menu featuring French toast!
Parent perks: An all-day menu focused on seasonal ingredients, wood-fired pizzas and a deli stocked with fresh bakes. The outdoor deck offers a great view of the play area so you can relax while they play.
Why visit: Located right next to the iconic St. James tidal pool, making it the best spot for a post-swim lunch. With live music on the weekends and a pet-friendly policy, it’s the perfect spot for everyone in the family.
The Eatery Wood Fired Grill
(Claremont, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: A delicious selection of milkshakes and kids’ meals, plus a play area.
Parent perks: A large deck opposite the jungle gym for parents to keep an eye on the little ones.
Why visit: Pet-friendly too, so the whole family can enjoy a day out.
The President Hotel
(Bantry Bay, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: A dedicated play area with a jungle gym, jumping castle, soft play blocks, and kiddies menu.
Parent perks: Signature cocktails, a delicious tapas menu, and plenty of events make The President Hotel the perfect spot for a date night with the kids in tow.
Why visit: The famous swimming pool is open to everyone and includes a separate shallow pool for little ones.
Strolla Restaurant & Bar
(Sea Point, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: A dedicated indoor games room with Xbox, movies, and a Lego wall. Little ones can also get stuck into a yummy menu featuring favorites like the “Dogfather” hot dog and creamy milkshakes.
Parent perks: Seaside dining with a menu featuring fresh sushi, cocktails, and thin-base pizzas. The outdoor deck is wind-protected and offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Why visit: Perfectly positioned on the Sea Point promenade, and pet-friendly it’s an ideal stop after a family walk.
The Lawns Restaurant
(Camps Bay, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: Massive lawns and a jungle gym with swings. They also have an interactive build-your-own-pizza option on the menu as well as ice cream, popcorn, and candy floss.
Parent perks: Shaded seating pods and breathtaking mountain views paired with a fresh Mediterranean menu.
Why visit: Its location makes it feel like a hidden forest sanctuary right above Camps Bay. It’s also pet-friendly and sits right next to popular mountain trails, making it a great stop for the whole family.
London Road Bistro at The Hyde Hotel
(Sea Point, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: The Hyde & Seek indoor playground is a winner, featuring a fun jungle gym and a dedicated space for kids to play safely. They also offer a kiddies’ menu, and regular movie nights.
Parent perks: A diverse, Halal-friendly menu ranging from Buddha bowls to hearty burgers in a calm, stylish setting.
Why visit: Just a short walk from the promenade, it offers a reliable spot with secure parking no matter what the Cape Town weather is doing.
The Winelands
Banhoek Chilli Oil Company
(Stellenbosch, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: Little ones are encouraged to kick off their shoes and explore the dedicated play area and lawns. The menu keeps things simple with tasty options like margherita pizza and pomodoro pasta.
Parent perks: Tables are conveniently located within the kids’ area, perfect for keeping an eye on younger adventurers.
Why visit: It’s a great experience where you can enjoy a chilli oil tasting or take a walk along the factory’s experience walkway to see how the oil is made.
Bosjes Kombuis
(Ceres, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A large playground, climbing nets and a mini zip line. The kiddies’ menu offers favourites like bacon mac & cheese, chicken strips, and homemade waffles.
Parent perks: Bistro-style dining in a glass-walled restaurant with 360-degree mountain views. The seasonal menu focuses on farm-to-fork dishes, and the large outdoor deck is perfect for keeping an eye on the little ones in the garden.
Why visit: After lunch, you can explore the famous sunken chapel, walk the indigenous gardens, or let the kids spot giraffes and springbok on a family-friendly hike through the estate.
Boschendal Werf Picnics
(Franschhoek, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: Kids can explore the Tree House Playground with slides, hideouts, and an MTB pump track. There are also fun lawn games at the picnic area.
Parent perks: Seasonal and fresh picnic baskets to enjoy, along with Boschendal’s award winning wines.
Why visit: Live music and regular family-focused events.
Du Vin Restaurant
(Stellenbosch, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A large outdoor jungle gym sits right next to the seating area, alongside a putt-putt course for some family competition. They also offer a unique kiddies sushi pairing and fun meals like spaghetti and meatballs.
Parent perks: Asian-fusion cuisine served in a relaxed Izakaya style, perfect for sharing. You can enjoy fresh sushi, bao buns, and dim sum while seated under old oak trees on the terrace.
Why visit: Enjoy a professional wine tasting alongside a full bistro lunch.
Festa
(Wellington, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A massive grass field perfect for a game of soccer, plus a wooden jungle gym and a mini pump track where they can zoom around on their bikes. There is also a dedicated kids’ menu with all the favourites.
Parent perks: Situated on the Kleinevalleij Estate, this spot offers beautiful views of the Bainskloof mountains and a menu filled with specialty wood-fired pizzas and Mediterranean-style small plates.
Why visit: The wide-open spaces and kick off your shoes atmosphere make it a top pick for a family afternoon, plus they often host live music and events.
Le Pommier Wine Estate
(Stellenbosch, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A dedicated outdoor play area with a jungle gym, swings, and sandpits, plus plenty of lawn for running. They also offer unique pairings, including a juice and pizza pairing or a flavored milk and sweet surprise tasting.
Parent perks: Keep an eye on your little ones from under the trees in the summer months, or cosy up by the fireplace when it gets chilly.
Why visit: Welcoming, fuss-free spot for families. With weekly specials like kids eat free on weekdays from 16h00 – 18h00.
Hazendal Wine Estate
(Stellenbosch, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: Home to Wonderdal, an immersive edutainment experience where kids (5 – 13) explore science and nature through interactive indoor and outdoor zones.
Parent perks: While the kids are supervised at Wonderdal, parents can enjoy a day of incredible food and great wine at the Wine Lounge, Mark’s, Golf Bar and Siyalima.
Why visit: Between the classic car collection, the Marvol Art Gallery, and the state-of-the-art driving range, there is truly something for every family member to enjoy.
The Millhouse Kitchen
(Somerset West, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: Plenty of outdoor space and a jungle gym.
Parent perks: Enjoy a seasonal menu with a close eye on the kids.
Why visit: The cosy environment and welcoming team make it feel like home.
Mont Marie Restaurant
(Stellenbosch, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A natural outdoor playground featuring a large sandpit, wooden jungle gym, and slides. The kiddies menu covers everything from pizzas to classic burgers and milkshakes.
Parent perks: The outdoor terrace is tented for shade and offers a clear view of the play area and the banks of the Blaauwklippen River.
Why visit: With resident farm dogs and ducks wandering the gardens, it feels like a true country escape just outside of town.
Nederburg
(Paarl, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: Cupcake decorating workshops, milk and cookie pairings, jungle gyms, zip lines, swings, treehouses, and more.
Parent perks: Tuck into a seasonal menu or enjoy a range of wine tastings, including exclusive vintages.
Why visit: The relaxing lawns and pet-friendly grounds make it the ideal venue for a family outing.
Perdeberg Wines
(Paarl, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A secure garden play area with a jungle gym, swings, and slides. On weather-permitting weekends, a jumping castle is added to the mix. The kids menu features DIY pizzas where little chefs can add their own toppings, plus a dedicated kiddies’ pairing of three cookies with a decorating kit and fruit juices.
Parent perks: Known as the home of Chenin Blanc, the estate offers unique pairings for adults, including candy floss and Cap Classique or a gelato and wine tasting.
Why visit: Opt to sit in the kids’ area to keep an eye on the little ones.
Rickety Bridge Wine Centre
(Franschhoek, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: Tastings aren’t just for grown-ups! Little ones can join in on the fun with kiddies pairing including: Apple juice and wine gums, crème soda and sour worms, and strawberry flavoured milk with Smarties.
Parent perks: Choose from a variety of wine tasting flights and experiences.
Why visit: Soak up the sun outside on the terrace during the warmer months or cosy up by the wood-burning fireplace when it cools down.
Rhebokskloof Restaurant
(Paarl, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A dedicated garden area with a large jungle gym and plenty of open lawns for ball games. The kids menu features treats like pizzas and creamy mac and cheese.
Parent perks: Enjoy Spanish-inspired tapas or hearty country classics while sitting on the terrace seating under massive oak trees offering a perfect view of the dam and the play area.
Why visit: The estate is completely pet-friendly and known for its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Spier
(Stellenbosch, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: Grape juice tastings, educational insect activities, an elemental play garden (close to Vadas Smokehouse), eagle encounters, bike rides through the farm, and more. A special kids’ picnic basket is also available from Spier Picnics.
Parent perks: Wine tasting, lunches, picnics, and more, all tied up in a relaxing location.
Why visit: The whole farm is a playground! With a variety of activities and things to do, this is the perfect venue for a family day out.
The Farmhouse at Blaauwklippen
(Stellenbosch, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: A massive outdoor play area with a giant wooden jungle gym, zipline, swings, and access to a world-class bike park and pump track right next door.
Parent perks: Freshly roasted Brix speciality coffee and a deli menu featuring paninis, quiche, and fresh pastries.
Why visit: Combine a visit to the weekend market with a cycle on the trails or a leisurely picnic on the sprawling lawns.
Tokara Deli
(Stellenbosch, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: An outdoor playground that features treehouses connected by rope bridges and tunnels. There’s also a kiddy menu featuring breakfast, lunch and sweet treats.
Parent perks: Large floor-to-ceiling glass windows allow you to keep a close eye on the play area while enjoying your meal. The shop is also stocked with extra virgin olive oils and artisanal deli goods to take home.
Why visit: Sitting at the top of Helshoogte Pass, the views of the Simonsberg mountains are unmatched. Take a family stroll through the sculpture garden and orchard walkway that connects the deli to the main winery.
Warwick Wine Estate
(Stellenbosch, Cape Town)
Fun for the kids: With fountains, a jungle gym, and a large garden to explore, there’s so much to keep the kids entertained. Plus, a special kiddies’ picnic basket will keep their tummies full.
Parent perks: Relaxing lawns, shaded pods around the dam,and delicious artisanal picnic baskets.
Why visit: Rolling views of the Simonsberg mountains over the dam.
Garden Route
Clay Café – George
(George, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: Let them unleash their inner artist with a selection of ceramics to paint, before fueling up with some food and heading to the outdoor jungle gym.
Parent perks: Get involved in the fun! Create your own ceramic masterpiece while enjoying good food, drinks, and company.
Why visit: Regular specials and events make it the perfect family-friendly activity.
De Vette Mossel – Grootbrak
(Groot Brakrivier, Garden Route)
Fun for the kids: A beachside adventure land featuring two wooden lighthouses, a zipline, a climbing wall, and trampolines. Kids can play in the sand or explore the giant bird nest while parents enjoy the 7-course seafood feast.
Parent perks: An authentic feet-in-the-sand experience with an endless supply of seafood prepared on open fires. The rolling buffet includes everything from freshly baked potbrood to West Coast snoek and mussels.
Why visit: With a dedicated meat potjie for non-seafood eaters and a relaxed, rustic vibe, it’s the ultimate spot for a family kuier by the ocean.
La Famiglia Mediterranean Restaurant
(George, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A dedicated outdoor play area with a jungle gym. Inside the clubhouse, there is a special pizza-making station where little ones can get hands-on. The menu features panko chicken strips, fish goujons, and mini pizzas.
Parent perks: Authentic Mediterranean dining with a focus on wood-fired dishes and fresh seafood. The restaurant’s modern, glass-fronted design offers a high-end escape with a cozy fireplace for cooler Garden Route days.
Why visit: Sweeping views of the Outeniqua Mountains and the manicured greens. It’s a warm, family-run spot that lives up to its name, making every guest feel like part of the family.
Luka Vineyards
(Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape)
Fun for the kids: A special picnic basket filled with delicious kid-approved snacks, plus an expansive lawn for running around.
Parent perks: Choose the perfect picnic from a selection of tempting baskets.
Why visit: Located between Plett and Knysna, Luka Vineyards is an ideal pit-stop on your Garden Route adventure.
Durban
Create Ceramics
(Umhlanga, Durban)
Fun for the kids: Little ones can pick and paint their own ceramic figures, from cute animals to cartoon characters. While munching on a delicious menu.
Parent perks: Join in the painting or simply relax with a barista-made coffee or a light snack.
Why visit: Great indoor activity for rainy days or a break from the beach. Once your piece is painted, the studio glazes and fires it for you to collect later as a unique keepsake.
Donna Modern Italian
(Ballito, Durban)
Fun for the kids: A supervised outdoor playground that allows kids to burn off energy safely. The kiddo menu features Italian favorites like baby Margherita pizzas, creamy mac and cheese, and spaghetti bolognese.
Parent perks: A menu that blends traditional Italian heritage with modern techniques. Enjoy signature dishes like prawn linguine or mushroom risotto while keeping an eye on the play area from the vibrant dining deck.
Why visit: Located in the heart of Salt Rock, it’s a brilliant spot for a family-style feast.
La Piazza
(Umhlali, Dolphin Coast)
Fun for the kids: Dedicated play area with a jungle gym and kids’ menu. Every Tuesday, kids eat free, and little ones under 8 get one hour of free play at Bambini Land with a kiddies’ meal.
Parent perks: Enjoy a relaxing family outing paired with a mouthwatering Italian menu. The restaurant is designed with multiple seating areas, including a verandah that offers a clear view of the play zones so you can dine in peace.
Why visit: Their weekly specials are designed for both adults and children, and change every month.
The Fun Factory Cornubia
(Umhlanga, Durban)
Fun for the kids: A full undercover play area, and kid-friendly favourites are available on the menu.
Parent perks: The menu features plenty of options for parents to enjoy while the little ones play.
Why visit: Regular character appearances, themed entertainment, and a top spot for celebrations.
Johannesburg
Clay Café Illovo
(Illovo, Sandton)
Fun for the kids: Kids can choose from over 180 ceramic pieces to paint and personalise, while the menu is packed with favourites like margherita pizza, chicken strips, and milkshakes.
Parent perks: Relax with a coffee and something to eat or join in the painting for a bit of art therapy.
Why visit: The perfect spot for a rainy day activity or a birthday celebration. Once finished, your masterpieces are glazed and fired in a kiln for you to collect as lasting keepsakes.
Gioia / Tei Avon
(Parkwood, Johannesburg)
Fun for the kids: Different play sections for various age groups with a variety of activities and equipment to keep the little ones entertained.
Parent perks: Childminders ensure you can take a step back.
Why visit: Regular quiz nights, live music, and more.
JoyJozi
(Dunkeld, Johannesburg)
Fun for the kids: From an array of outdoor activities like gardens, bicycle tracks, and splash pads, as well as indoor options for rainy days, JoyJozi is geared for keeping the little ones entertained.
Parent perks: Not only is JoyJozi for the kids, but parents are welcome too and can enjoy something from their large menu in a relaxed setting.
Why visit: With little guests in mind, the whole venue has been carefully designed for maximum fun.
The Creatory
(Linden, Johannesburg)
Fun for the kids: The little members of the family can get creative while letting their imaginations run wild with painting, drawing, and exploring.
Parent perks: Mom and Dad aren’t excluded! Pick up a paintbrush and get creative with the kiddos.
Why visit: The Creatory offers a variety of classes and workshops, perfect for a crafty family outing.
The Fun Factory Morning Glen
(Sandton, Johannesburg)
Fun for the kids: A fully undercover play area featuring multi-level climbing structures and regular visits from costumed characters. The menu offers favourites like ribs, burgers, and cheesy mac, followed by a build-your-own ice cream option!
Parent perks: A comfortable, colourful dining space where you can enjoy a full bistro menu from pastas to burgers and grills, all while keeping an eye on the kids.
Why visit: Reliable, weather-proof destination for active play. And, the dedicated party pods make it a top choice for hosting large groups of little ones.
Vitality HealthyFood Studio
(Sandton, Johannesburg)
Fun for the kids: Vitality hosts regular kids’ cooking classes for ages 8 and up, where tiny chefs can learn to chop, mix and cook.
Parent perks: There are weekly healthy cooking classes for adults too!
Why visit: The rooftop kitchen not only offers stunning views of the city, they also cover a variety of cuisines, along with baking sessions for both sweet and savoury treats.
Pretoria & surrounds
Clay Café
(Multiple locations)
Fun for the kids: A large selection of fun ceramics to paint, plus a mouthwatering kiddies’ menu.
Parent perks: Take part in the creative fun and paint away while enjoying a delicious plate of food and a relaxed drink.
Why visit: Fun for the whole family!
Create
(Multiple locations)
Fun for the kids: Tiny painters can get creative with a selection of child-friendly items to paint, plus a kids’ menu with tasty favourites.
Parent perks: An extensive menu with something for everyone, including a great selection of creative cocktails.
Why visit: All venues have a relaxed environment that offers the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch or special event celebration.
Huckleberry’s
(Muckleneuk, Pretoria)
Fun for the kids: An expansive lawn, equipped with fun games and equipment, plus a kids’ menu offering a variety of options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Parent perks: The family-friendly space means parents can enjoy a leisurely lunch while the little ones have a blast!
Why visit: Located in a park, it gives families the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
LA Vie Lente Bistro & Venue
(Tierpoort, Pretoria)
Fun for the kids: Children can run and play outside on the huge lawn, as well as play in the dedicated play area with toys and a seesaw.
Parent perks: The laid-back environment makes it the ideal location to relax and enjoy moments with the family.
Why visit: A small, regularly changing menu means that every dish is fresh and seasonal.
Montanellis Family Restaurant
(Pretorius Montana, Pretoria)
Fun for the kids: The play area features both indoor and outdoor sections with climbing structures, colourful toys, and creative corners. The specialised kiddies’ menu offers favourites like Montapalli’s pork ribs, chicken strips, and fun milkshakes.
Parent perks: A warm setting with a menu that ranges from sizzling grills and fresh seafood platters to hearty oxtail stew. The Sunday family buffet is a local favourite, offering a generous spread of roasts and sides.
Why visit: The focus is on family-style hospitality – with secure play zones and a welcoming team, it’s a reliable spot for everything from a quick breakfast to a large family celebration.
Molitva Orthodox Mediterranean Restaurant
(Krugersdorp, Gauteng)
Fun for the kids: In addition to the delicious kids’ menu, they also have jumping castles, water slides, and art on the weekends.
Parent perks: Parents can snack on a selection of tapas-style plates or tuck into heartier dishes while the kids play.
Why visit: Molitiva is set amidst stunning mountain and countryside views.
PLTFRM Wolwespruit
(Erasmuskloof, Pretoria)
Fun for the kids: The playground features tunnels and slides, plus a separate sandbox for younger ones. Active kids can join the Slurrp Club for games or bring their bikes to tackle the large pump track and dedicated kid-friendly MTB trails.
Parent perks: Large outdoor deck and cozy bean bags with a menu filled with creative tapas, wood-fired pizzas, and high-quality meat cuts.
Why visit: Nestled within a 15km trail park, it’s the ultimate weekend destination for active families with the added bonus of being a pet-friendly venue that even has a dedicated menu for dogs.
Social Grill Pretoria
(Pretorius Park, Pretoria)
Fun for the kids: A large, safe indoor area featuring a sandpit and arcade games. The kiddies menu offers all the favourites, including mini beef sliders, ribs, and ham and mozzarella pizzas.
Parent perks: A trendy spot known for its excellent steaks and wood-fired pizzas. You can relax in private booths or on the large deck while enjoying live music on the weekends.
Why visit: Located right next to Woodlands Mall, it’s convenient, yet relaxing. Whether it’s for a souvla Sunday Greek-style braai or a casual family lunch, the warm service makes everyone feel welcome.
The Barn Restaurant – Irene Farm
(Centurion, Gauteng)
Fun for the kids: A storybook farm experience where kids can visit the cows and newborn calves, and climb on antique tractors. There is also a jungle gym, a toddler splash pool, and several dams filled with ducks and geese to feed.
Parent perks: The restaurant offers a relaxed farm-to-table menu and famous weekend breakfast and lunch buffets. Shaded outdoor seating under old oak trees provides a perfect view of the farm animals.
Why visit: It’s a true farm in the city where the atmosphere is nostalgic
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