There’s nothing better than rolling out a picnic blanket and some of your favourite snacks in a beautiful location. Cape Town summers offer some of the best weather for picnics and it’s time to make the most of it in these wonderful Mother City picnic locations.
Whether you’re looking for uncrowded picnic places in Cape Town or the best free picnic spots Cape Town has to offer, you’ll find them in this list. Ready to explore the picnic locations Cape Town has in store?
Secret Picnic Spots Cape Town
These self-catering picnic spots in Cape Town are lesser-known by the masses and provide a perfect location to escape the throngs of people that swarm to Cape Town in the summer months.
1. Disa River Gorge
This little-known picnic spot is located in the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. Head to the top of Cecilia Contour Path and follow the signs to Disa Kloof. Here you’ll find a hidden gem – a picturesque gorge with a small stream running through it, shaded by trees. It’s the ideal place to relax and enjoy some quality time with your family or friends.
2. Blaauwberg Beach Nature Reserve
This secluded beach is definitely one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets. Located on the West Coast between Melkbosstrand and Big Bay, Blaauwberg Beach Nature Reserve is perfect for a day out with the family. The kids can run around and explore while you enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade.
3. Rietvlei Wetland Reserve
This is one of the best picnic spots in Cape Town if you’re looking to escape the city for a day. Rietvlei Wetland Reserve is located just off the N1 freeway, about 30 minutes from the city centre. The reserve offers stunning views of wetlands, mountains and wildlife – it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
4. Tietiesbaai
Tietiesbaai is another secluded beach spot on the West Coast, about 2 hours drive from Cape Town. This beautiful bay is surrounded by cliffs and is a popular spot for fishing, swimming and picnicking. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
5. Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve is located in the Overberg region, about 2 hours drive from Cape Town. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Bontebok antelope. There are several picnic spots dotted around the reserve, so you can choose your perfect spot to enjoy some time in nature.
6. Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Cape Town and it’s easy to see why. The beach is located in a sheltered cove and is home to a colony of African penguins. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing day out with friends or family. Best of all, it’s free to visit.
7. Silvermine Nature Reserve
Silvermine Nature Reserve is located in the Table Mountain National Park and offers a variety of hiking trails to explore. The reserve also has a large dam, perfect for swimming on a hot summer’s day. After working up an appetite, you can enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the scenic spots.
8. Oudekraal Beach
Oudekraal Beach is a secluded beach located within Table Mountain National Park. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic picnic for two or a day out with friends. The beach is situated at the foot of the Twelve Apostles mountain range and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
9. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is world-renowned and offers a stunning setting for a picnic. The gardens are located at the foot of Table Mountain and are home to a variety of indigenous plants. There are several picnic spots dotted around the gardens, so you can choose your perfect spot to enjoy the views.
10. Green Point Park
Green Point Park is located just behind the V&A Waterfront and offers stunning views of Table Mountain. The park is popular with joggers, walkers and picnickers alike. There are several grassy areas to enjoy a picnic, as well as a playground for the kids.
Free Picnic Spots in Cape Town
If you’re on a tight budget, then these places to picnic in Cape Town provide a free alternative. All you need to buy is the snacks and bring along a picnic blanket and you’ll be sorted.
11. Muizenberg Beach
This vibrant beachfront is located just 30 minutes from the city centre and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and surfing. There are several restaurants and cafes along the beachfront, so you can grab a bite to eat before finding the perfect spot to lay down your picnic blanket.
12. Noordhoek Beach
Noordhoek Beach is one of the longest beaches in Cape Town and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot for horse riding, walking and picnicking. There are several restaurants along the beachfront, so you can refuel after a day in the sun.
13. Hout Bay Beach
Hout Bay is a beautiful seaside village located just 20 minutes from the city centre. The village has a lovely beach flanked by a promenade, perfect for an afternoon stroll. There are several picnic spots along the water’s edge, so you can enjoy stunning views of the bay while you relax with friends or family.
14. Tokai Forest
Tokai Forest is one of the largest urban forests in Cape Town and offers a serene setting for a picnic. The forest is located in the southern suburbs of Cape Town and is a popular spot for mountain biking, hiking and picnicking. There are several picnic spots located along the trails, so you can find your perfect spot to relax.
Final Thoughts on Parks in Cape Town for Picnics
If you’re looking for the best picnic areas in Cape Town, you’ve come to the right place. With so many beautiful parks and reserves to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. So what are you waiting for? Grab a picnic blanket and head to one of these stunning spots for a day in nature.
