Skip to main content
Things to do

Picturesque picnic spots in Cape Town

Cape Town is a city blessed with breathtaking landscapes, and what better way to enjoy them than with a relaxing picnic? The Mother City offers a variety of beautiful spots perfect for a picnic. From lush gardens to picturesque beaches and tranquil parks, here are the best picnic spots in Cape Town.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Kirstenbosch is one of the most famous and loved botanical gardens in the world, set against the backdrop of Table Mountain. The sprawling lawns, scenic walks, and diverse plant species make it an ideal spot for a laid-back picnic. Whether you choose a spot under a shady tree or by one of the water features, you can enjoy stunning views and natural beauty.

The gardens are well-maintained, with plenty of grassy spots perfect for laying out a blanket. In the summer months, you can enjoy the popular Summer Sunset Concerts, which are an extra bonus if you’re visiting during that time.

Company’s Garden

  • Location: Cape Town City Centre
  • Entrance: Free
  • More info: See TripAdvisor

The Company’s Garden is an urban oasis right in the heart of Cape Town. It’s a peaceful escape surrounded by museums, historical buildings, and the beautiful greenery of the park. The garden is a great place for families and individuals to enjoy a relaxing picnic while exploring the surrounding attractions and feeding the squirrels and doves. With large lawns, shady trees, and plenty of benches, the Company’s Garden provides a serene environment in the midst of the city hustle. While you can bring your own picnic, there’s also a cafe for a snack or drink if you prefer to purchase something on-site.

Green Point Urban Park

The Green Point Urban Park is a large, lush park ideal for a picnic, offering beautiful views of Signal Hill and Cape Town’s skyline. It’s perfect for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of space to spread out a blanket, kick back, and enjoy the surroundings. The park is well-maintained and offers ample space for picnicking, walking, and even bird watching. It’s especially great for families, with large open fields, gardens, and a play area for kids.

Newlands Forest Picnic Area

  • Location: Newlands
  • Entrance: Free for Newlands Forest, but there is an entrance for the picnic and braai area
  • Website: https://www.cityofcapetown.info/newlands-forest

Newlands Forest Picnic Area is a serene escape located at the foot of Table Mountain. It provides an ideal setting for a peaceful day out in nature, surrounded by towering trees and fresh mountain air. Perfect for those looking to unwind, this picnic area offers ample space for families and friends to relax and enjoy homemade meals or snacks. The entrance is after the entrance to Newlands Forest, as you drive on the M3 towards Cape Town. A tranquil and shaded spot with plenty of green space to lay out your blanket. You can also explore the forest’s scenic walking trails, making it a great location to combine a bit of light hiking with a refreshing outdoor meal. Whether you’re seeking solitude or enjoying quality time with others, Newlands Forest delivers a rejuvenating natural experience.

Clifton Beaches

Clifton’s beaches are perfect for a picnic with a view. The four beautiful beaches here offer soft sand, turquoise waters, and stunning backdrops of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. You can enjoy a relaxed beach picnic as the sun sets and watch locals and tourists alike enjoying the beach. While you can bring your own picnic, remember that the beaches can get busy, especially in summer. The iconic white sand makes for a perfect backdrop for a picnic, but it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a prime spot.

Cape Point Nature Reserve

Cape Point is an iconic natural wonder located at the tip of the Cape Peninsula. The rugged beauty of this area, along with its dramatic landscapes, makes it a perfect spot for an unforgettable picnic. While you’re there, you can also take a walk to the famous lighthouse or explore some of the walking trails. Surrounded by crashing waves and rugged cliffs, Cape Point offers a sense of isolation and beauty that makes it a perfect spot for a scenic and peaceful picnic. You can bring your own picnic, or purchase something at the nearby restaurant, which overlooks the stunning scenery.

Noordhoek Farm Village

  • Location: Noordhoek, Cape Town
  • Booking Required?: Yes, it’s recommended to book for picnic hampers.
  • Website: Noordhoek Farm Village

Noordhoek Farm Village is a family-friendly spot that offers a relaxed vibe for a picnic. The charming village is surrounded by open fields and natural beauty. While it’s possible to bring your own picnic, the village also offers picnic hampers to pre-order, making it even easier to enjoy a hassle-free meal. A quaint, peaceful village with grassy lawns, picnic tables, and a relaxed atmosphere. The village is also home to restaurants, shops, and a local market on Saturdays.

Tokai Forest

Tokai Forest is located on the slopes of Table Mountain, offering a tranquil, shaded spot to picnic among towering trees. The forest is great for a peaceful escape and is well-known for its walking trails and serene environment. It’s ideal for those looking for a quieter place to enjoy the outdoors. Tall pine trees, a forested atmosphere, and plenty of picnic spots to enjoy a relaxed day out. The surrounding area is perfect for walks, cycling, and even bird watching.

Buitenverwachting Wine Estate

Buitenverwachting, a beautiful wine estate in the Constantia wine valley, offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing picnic. While you can bring your own picnic, the estate offers gourmet picnic baskets to enjoy while you overlook the vineyards and gardens. It’s a peaceful retreat with exquisite scenery. Vineyards, panoramic mountain views, and an elegant environment. If you’re looking for a hassle-free experience, the picnic baskets filled with fresh local produce are an excellent choice.

Spier Wine Estate

  • Location: Stellenbosch, Cape Town
  • Booking Required?: Yes, for picnic baskets.
  • Website: Spier Wine Estate

Spier Wine Estate, located in the heart of the Stellenbosch wine route, is a fantastic picnic spot. You can bring your own picnic or opt for one of their famous gourmet picnic baskets. The estate also offers lovely outdoor spaces to relax, making it ideal for a day out in nature. The estate offers beautiful picnic areas under the trees, next to the river, or near the vineyards. The picnic baskets are filled with fresh, local produce, perfect for enjoying in the tranquil surroundings.

Groot Constantia Estate

  • Location: Constantia, Cape Town
  • Booking Required?: Yes, booking a picnic hamper is recommended.
  • Website: Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia, one of the oldest wine estates in the country, offers visitors a wonderful opportunity for a scenic picnic surrounded by vineyards and history. While you can bring your own picnic, the estate offers special picnic hampers filled with delicious local treats for a complete experience. Beautiful views of the Constantia valley, lush lawns, and the tranquil atmosphere of a wine estate. It’s the perfect setting for enjoying a leisurely picnic while sipping on some of Cape Town’s finest wines. Cape Town’s natural beauty and abundant green spaces make it one of the best cities in the world for picnicking.

Whether you’re looking to relax in a park, enjoy beachside views, or have a peaceful meal surrounded by nature, the Mother City has a picnic spot for everyone. From free spots where you can bring your own food to areas where you can order gourmet hampers, you’re sure to have a wonderful outdoor experience.

You may be interested in: