Top 10 Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa: Ocean Views, Mountains, & Historical Islands

Our relaxed, early morning travel style is something we love, so much so, we wrote a blog and 2 free downloadable travel guides on it, “Your Daily Slow Travel Planner + Bonus Slow Morning Blueprint” request your free copies at the top of the page or through one of our pop ups.

For more on Cape Town, checkout our upcoming blog posts, “4-days in Cape Town, South Africa, Viewpoints, Beaches, Penguins, & More”, and “Travel Guide to Cape Town, South Africa: Where to Stay, Eat, & Essential Tips”. For flights, stays, car rentals, and activities, we use Expedia, for tours, classes, and activities, we use Get Your Guide or Viator.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you choose to make a booking or purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend places, experiences, and products that we have personally used or genuinely believe add value to a trip.

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction to Cape Town
2. Top 10 Things to do in Cape Town, South Africa
3. References
4. The Wrap Up

1. Introduction to Cape Town:

Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is one of the world’s most breathtaking and diverse travel destinations. Founded in 1652 as a supply station for the Dutch East India Company, Cape Town is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From dramatic coastal drives and pristine beaches to vibrant neighborhoods, world-class wineries, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, the city offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, this guide highlights the top 10 things to do in Cape Town to help you experience the very best of South Africa’s spectacular coastal gem.

If you’re planning a trip, here are the top 10 things to do in Cape Town, South Africa that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

2. Top 10 Things to do in Cape Town, South Africa:

1. Table Mountain-

Towering 1,086 metres (3,563 feet) above Cape Town, Table Mountain is one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Estimated to be more than 260 million years old, the mountain is famous for its distinctive flat summit, which stretches approximately 3 kilometres across and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can reach the top via the rotating Table Mountain Aerial Cableway or by hiking one of several scenic trails. The mountain is also home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, forming part of the UNESCO-listed Cape Floral Region, one of the richest botanical areas in the world. Whether viewed from below or explored from its summit, Table Mountain is an unforgettable highlight of any visit to Cape Town.

Don’t miss:

• Sunset or early morning visits
• Hiking at the top of the mountain  
• Spotting local wildlife like dassies

2. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden-

Nestled against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Established in 1913 to protect and showcase South Africa’s unique flora, the garden spans more than 500 hectares and features an extraordinary collection of indigenous plants, including many species found nowhere else on Earth. Visitors can wander through vibrant flower displays, peaceful walking trails, and themed gardens, or stroll along the famous Boomslang Canopy Walkway for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As part of the UNESCO-listed Cape Floral Region, Kirstenbosch offers a spectacular introduction to South Africa’s rich biodiversity and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Pictured above is the stunning Protea, one of the many indigenous floral plants found here and our personal favourite.

Don’t miss:

• Summer sunset concerts
• The Boomslang Canopy Walkway
• Picnics on the lawns

3. Castle of Good Hope-

The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa and one of Cape Town’s most important historic landmarks. Constructed between 1666 and 1679 by the Dutch East India Company, the pentagonal fortress was built to protect the growing settlement at the Cape and served as a military stronghold, administrative center, and residence for colonial officials. Today, the castle houses museums and exhibits that showcase South Africa’s colonial history, military heritage, and cultural artifacts. Visitors can explore its well-preserved bastions, dungeons, courtyards, and historic chambers while gaining insight into the complex history that helped shape modern Cape Town. With its distinctive architecture and rich historical significance, the Castle of Good Hope offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. If the timing works out they also hold a monthly market in the cobbled courtyard of the castle, with vendors selling local, handmade clothing, houseware, accessories, art, and bouquets of beautiful locally grown flowers like the protea.

Don’t miss:

• Guided historical tours
• The Moat around the castle
• Courtyard architecture
• Monthly market

4. V&A Waterfront-

The V&A Waterfront is Cape Town’s vibrant harbour district, where history, culture, shopping, and entertainment come together against the stunning backdrop of Table Mountain. Named after Queen Victoria and her son Prince Alfred, who helped establish the harbour in the 19th century, the waterfront has evolved into one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations. Visitors can explore a wide variety of shops, restaurants, markets, and attractions, including boat tours, museums, and the Two Oceans Aquarium. The bustling marina, lively atmosphere, and spectacular waterfront views make it an ideal place to relax, dine, and experience the energy of Cape Town while enjoying some of the city’s most iconic scenery.

Don’t miss:

• Restaurants with harbour views
• Street performers and live music
• Boat trips around the harbour & to Robben Island

5. Milnerton Beach-

Milnerton Beach is known for its iconic view of Table Mountain reflected in the lagoon waters. It’s a quieter, more relaxed beach compared to some of Cape Town’s busier spots.

Located just north of Cape Town’s city centre and stretches along the Atlantic coastline. This expansive sandy beach is a favourite spot for photographers, walkers, and water sports enthusiasts. The beach is particularly popular at sunrise and sunset when the changing light creates stunning reflections across the ocean and the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain. While strong winds and currents make swimming here unadvisable, Milnerton Beach is an excellent destination for kiteboarding, beachcombing, and capturing some of Cape Town’s most iconic coastal scenery. Milnerton Beach is also known for its shark teeth washing up on shore, so if you look hard enough you may find one.

The wreck of the Commodore II is one of Milnerton’s most fascinating hidden treasures, with a history that spans Hollywood, war, and the sea. Built in Seattle in 1919, the vessel served as a cargo ship before appearing in the 1935 film Mutiny on the Bounty starring Clark Gable. During the Second World War, it was repurposed as a floating coal hulk in Cape Town Harbour, supporting wartime operations. By 1946, the aging ship had reached the end of its service life and was stripped, set ablaze, and left to drift before eventually running aground near Milnerton Lagoon. For more than 60 years, the wreck was largely swallowed by the shifting shoreline and forgotten beneath the sand until a powerful storm in 2008 exposed its remains once again. Today, the weathered timbers of the Commodore II offer a rare connection to Cape Town’s maritime past and provide a unique focal point along the shores of Milnerton Beach.

Don’t miss:

• Sunrise/Sunset photography of Table Mountain reflections
• Kite surfing
• Long beach walks
• The Commodore ll , Shipwreck

6. Robben Island-

Located approximately 7 kilometres off the coast of Cape Town, Robben Island is one of South Africa’s most significant historical landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is best known for serving as a prison during the apartheid era, where former South African president Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years of imprisonment. Over the centuries, Robben Island was used as a prison, military base, and leper colony, reflecting many chapters of the country’s complex history. Visitors can take a ferry from the V&A Waterfront to tour the island, explore the former prison, and gain a deeper understanding of South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy. A visit to Robben Island offers a powerful and moving insight into the resilience and courage of those who fought against apartheid.

Today, guided tours are led by former political prisoners, offering powerful and emotional insight into the country’s history.

Don’t miss:

• Ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront
• Prison cell tours
• Historical museum exhibits

7. Boulders Beach-

Boulders Beach is one of Cape Town’s most unique and beloved attractions, famous for its colony of endangered African penguins. Located near the charming seaside town of Simon’s Town, the beach is sheltered by enormous granite boulders that are estimated to be more than 500 million years old, creating calm, sheltered coves, and crystal-clear waters. Since establishing a breeding colony here in 1983, the penguins have become a major draw for visitors, who can observe them up close from a network of boardwalks designed to protect their habitat. With its striking scenery, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly atmosphere, Boulders Beach offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience one of South Africa’s most iconic natural attractions.

Don’t miss:

• Penguin viewing boardwalks
• Swimming in calm coves
• Visiting early to avoid crowds

8. Cape of Good Hope-

Standing at the southwestern tip of the Cape Peninsula, the Cape of Good Hope is a place where dramatic cliffs, crashing ocean waves, and untamed natural beauty create one of South Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. Often mistaken as the southernmost point of Africa, the cape has long captured the imagination of explorers and sailors since Portuguese navigator Bartolomeu Dias first rounded it in 1488. Today, visitors can walk scenic coastal trails, admire panoramic ocean views, and encounter local wildlife, including ostriches, baboons, and Cape Mountain zebras, (always remember, never approach a wild animal and keep you car window rolled up).  As part of the protected Table Mountain National Park, the Cape of Good Hope offers a memorable blend of history, adventure, and spectacular scenery that makes it one of Cape Town’s most rewarding day trips.

Don’t miss:

• Hiking trails with ocean views
• Wildlife spotting (baboons, ostriches, etc.)
• Photo stop at the iconic sign

9. Muizenberg Beach-

Muizenberg Beach is one of Cape Town’s most popular seaside destinations, famous for its colourful Victorian-era beach huts, long stretch of golden sand, and laid-back coastal atmosphere. Located along the warmer waters of False Bay, the beach is widely regarded as the birthplace of surfing in South Africa and is one of the best places in the country for beginners to take a surf lesson. Gentle waves, family-friendly swimming conditions, and a vibrant beachfront lined with cafés and shops make Muizenberg a favourite among both locals and visitors. Whether you’re learning to surf, enjoying a leisurely walk along the shore, or photographing the iconic rainbow-coloured beach huts, Muizenberg Beach offers a quintessential Cape Town beach experience.

Don’t miss:

• Surf lessons for beginners
• Colorful beach hut photos
• Cafés along the promenade

10. Hout Bay-

Hout Bay is a picturesque coastal village on Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard, framed by towering mountains on one side and a working harbour on the other. Once a quiet fishing community, it has grown into a lively destination known for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and relaxed seaside charm. Visitors can stroll along the harbour to watch fishing boats come and go, browse local craft markets, or enjoy a meal of freshly caught fish and chips overlooking the water. From the harbour, boat trips also depart to Duiker Island, home to a large colony of Cape fur seals. With its blend of mountain scenery, ocean views, and authentic coastal atmosphere, Hout Bay offers a classic slice of Cape Town life.

Don’t miss:

• Fresh seafood at the harbour
• Boat trips to Seal Island
• Chapman’s Peak scenic drive

3. References:

For our Cape Town Travel Series, we created our top things to do, itinerary, and tips and recommendations from our own experiences we had while exploring this rugged and beautiful region of South Africa, as well we read the DK Eyewitness Travel Top 10 Cape Town which helped shape our adventure. In addition, we like to explore the official tourism websites, (Capetown.travel) attraction sites, public transportation resources when needed (like buses, trains, and ferries), and a few local food blogs to see what local foods piques our interest. Google Maps for driving and walking distances, and tour apps for any activities, like Get Your Guide, Viator or Expedia. We hope you find these Top things to do, helpful when planning your own adventure to this beautiful and unique coastal region of South Africa.

4. The Wrap Up:

Cape Town is one of those rare destinations where nature and city life blend seamlessly. One moment you’re hiking a mountain or watching penguins on the beach, and the next you’re enjoying world-class food with ocean views.

From the heights of Table Mountain to the history of Robben Island and the relaxed coastal charm of places like Muizenberg and Hout Bay, every stop adds something unique to your journey.

If you plan your time well, Cape Town will easily become one of the most unforgettable places you ever visit.

Our relaxed, early morning travel style is something we love, so much so, we wrote a blog and 2 free downloadable travel guides on it, “Your Daily Slow Travel Planner + Bonus Slow Morning Blueprint” request your free copies at the top of the page or through one of our pop ups.

Plan Better. Travel Slower. Capture More.

Thank you,

Beth

Beth de Verteuil

Wild Meadow Studio

Plan. Travel. Capture.

www.wildmeadowstudio.com