Looking for the best family-friendly places to visit along the Cape South Coast? See my recommendations below.

The Cape South Coast is one of South Africa’s most scenic and diverse regions, with rugged coastlines, charming seaside towns, and abundant marine life. Located at the southernmost tip of the country between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, it incorporates the Cape Whale Coast, a region focused on whale watching and coastal attractions. We spent some time exploring this area.

11 Family-friendly places to visit along the Cape South Coast

1. Hermanus

Hermanus is known as the whale watching capital of South Africa, even recognized by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) as one of the 12 best whale watching destinations in the world. From July to November every year, this small town buzzes with activity as large numbers of Southern Right Whales come from the cold Antarctic waters to the warmer waters of Walker Bay, to mate, calve and breach, attracting visitors from far and wide. A whale crier announces the daily arrival of the whales by blowing his kelp horn! The town also has stunning coastal walks, excellent seafood restaurants, and the annual Whale Festival.

Stay at The Marine.

2. Gansbaai

Gansbaai

Just a short drive from Hermanus, Gansbaai is renowned for its shark cage diving experiences where adventurous travellers can come face-to-face with great white sharks in their natural habitat. The town is also a gateway to the scenic Walker Bay Nature Reserve, with its pristine beaches, caves, and hiking trails.

We went on a Marine Big Five tour in Gansbaai and saw four of the Big Five (Sharks, whales, seals and penguins). Our tour included a visit to Dyer Island, a marine nature reserve and breeding ground for 1,800 African Penguins and numerous other seabirds, as well as Geyser Rock Island, a small island in the reserve which is home to a colony of 60,000 Cape fur seals.

Read about our Marine Big Five tour.

3. De Kelders

De Kelders – View from the cave

De Kelders is a hidden gem along the Cape South Coast, with striking coastal views, dramatic cliffs, and a series of fascinating caves, like the famous Klipgat Cave, which has significant archaeological importance. It is also a popular location for land-based whale watching, as the cliffs provide an excellent vantage point for spotting whales.

4. De Hoop Nature Reserve

Fynbos and dunes in De Hoop Nature Reserve

De Hoop Nature Reserve is a spectacular 36,000 ha reserve in the Overberg region, with serene beaches, sand dunes, and an array of wildlife, including Cape mountain zebras, bontebok, and over 260 bird species. The entire De Hoop coastline is a Marine Protected Area, prohibiting fishing and the removal of marine organisms, and its wetlands are of international importance. This gives rise to some of the richest examples of intertidal ecosystems in the province. It is also part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, the world’s smallest and most threatened plant kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Whale Trail is a popular hiking route in the reserve that offers breathtaking coastal views.

Stay at Morukuru Beach Lodge.

5. Cape Agulhas

Cape Agulhas

While many people believe that Cape Point is where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet, officially they meet at Cape Agulhas, which is also the southernmost tip of the African continent.  The iconic red-and-white lighthouse is the second oldest lighthouse in South Africa and the surrounding region boasts shipwrecks, rocky shores, and a rich maritime history.

6. Arniston

Arniston

Surrounded by exquisite beaches, white sand dunes and lush nature reserves, the charming seaside town of Arniston has been a holiday destination since the early 20th century. Kassiesbaai in Arniston is one of the last working fishing villages in South Africa, which is a national heritage site.

The nearby Waenhuiskrans Cave, accessible at low tide, is a natural wonder worth exploring. It is believed to be big enough for an ox wagon with a full span of 16 oxen to turn around in!

Stay at the Arniston Spa Hotel, the only hotel in the town.

7. Stony Point Nature Reserve

Stony Point Nature Reserve

It may not be as well-known as Boulders Beach but Stony Point Nature Reserve in Betty’s Bay is home to one of the largest African penguin breeding colonies in the world. A wooden boardwalk allows visitors to observe these charming birds up close while respecting their natural habitat.

8. Harold Porter National Botanical Garden

Harold Porter National Botanical Garden

The Harold Porter National Botanical Garden, also in Betty’s Bay, is a magical garden with indigenous fynbos, waterfalls, and scenic walking trails. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and is part of the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas UNESCO World Heritage Site.

9. Kogelberg Nature Reserve

Kogelberg Nature Reserve

Kogelberg is a biodiversity hotspot with some of the most pristine fynbos landscapes in South Africa. The reserve offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and panoramic mountain views.

Stay in Kogelberg Nature Reserve.

10. Rooisand Nature Reserve

Wild horses in Rooisand Nature Reserve cc. Kleinmond Tourism

Rooisand is a hidden gem for bird lovers, with wetlands that attract a variety of waterbirds like flamingos and pelicans. The reserve also features wild horses that roam freely. They are believed to be descendants of horses abandoned by British soldiers after the Anglo-Boer War (1899–1902).

Do check the road conditions before going as they are generally not good.

We were lucky to spot the wild horses from the golf course at Arabella Hotel, Golf and Spa, which lies on the edge of the Botrivier Lagoon, adjacent to the Rooisands Nature Reserve.

Stay at Arabella Hotel, Golf and Spa.

11.  Stanford

Stanfrod view from the river (cc. Deposit Photos)

Stanford is a picturesque village along the banks of the Klein River, with a delightful blend of nature, history, and small-town charm. River cruises provide a unique way to take in the scenery and spot birdlife, while kayaking offers a more active way to explore the waterways. For history lovers, Stanford’s well-preserved heritage buildings and quaint streets offer a glimpse into the past.

I have only listed places that are on or near the coast. However, there are many inland gems in the Cape South Coast region too. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the magic of the Cape South Coast!

See 9 Cape West Coast towns you should visit

See 63 Best things to do in Cape Town.

11 Family-Friendly Places to Visit Along the Cape South Coast

Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.