Romantic Things To Do in Cape Town
Visiting Cape Town with your special person? You’re in luck!
Love is in the air! The unapologetic natural beauty of the glorious Mother City is synonymous with romance and big romantic gestures. Deemed the best and most beautiful city in the world, you can’t help but fall head-over-heels in love with her beauty, charm, vibrant energy, stunning natural wonders, and incredible landmarks and attractions – and the same applies to your significant other!
Whether you’re eager to get engaged, go on a memorable couple’s escape, magical engagement trip, or enthral your love with some of the Mother City’s most romantic activities, experiences, and adventures – Cape Town is exactly where you need to be.
Here are some of the most romantic things to do in Cape Town for couples or even if you’re looking to spoil yourself with some good ol’ self-love!
#Take an Aerial Cableway ride up Table Mountain at sunset
There is just something EXTRA special about going on a stunning sunset Aerial Cable Way ride up the tall-standing Table Mountain with your significant other – Undoubtedly making it one of the top romantic things to do in Cape Town all year-round.
While admiring Table Mountain from below is every bit as beautiful, few things can compare to the view you’ll experience from the top of one of the New7Wonders of Nature. Plus, you and your partner get to tick something truly thrilling off your Cape Town bucket-list!
While you’re up there, why not pair your sensational Table Mountain sunset backdrop and breathtaking view over the vast Atlantic, Lion’s Head, Camps Bay, glorious Mother City and beyond, with a lovely picnic and celebratory bottle of bubbly on one of the rocks or beautiful spots scattered along the Table Mountain summit?!
What are you waiting for? Book your Table Mountain Aerial Cableway ticket right now from WebTickets.
#Go to the Pink Flamingo Rooftop Cinema
The Pink Flamingo Rooftop Cinema in Cape Town is dedicated to restoring the true experience of cinema!
Photo credit: Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel
Located in the heart of Cape Town’s lively CBD, the infamous Pink Flamingo open-air Rooftop Cinema is part drive-in, part social event, and part adventure. Set in the Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel – the only designer Rooftop Airstream Trailer Park in the world – The Pink Flamingo celebrates the silver screen in a silver setting – right beneath the night sky.
Showcasing an array of films, including all your favorite classics, watching a movie under the Cape Town night sky and Mother City moonlight while surrounded by their amazing gleaming vintage Airstream Trailers, is by far one of the most romantic things to do in Cape Town. Not to mention one of the most unique and memorable too!
On an open-air rooftop that is The Grand Daddy Hotel’s Airstream Penthouse Trailer Park, the Pink Flamingo Rooftop Cinema is all about celebrating the occasion, the glamour, the romance, the ritual, and the wonderful world of make believe that is the movies.
If you want to up the romance factor, you can order a delicious picnic basket or decide to spend the night in one of their magical themed trailers.
**Note: You can choose from three unique seating options: General Seating, the Love Seat, and the Couch. Each ticket includes a welcome drink, a bag of sweets and popcorn.
Watching an open-air rooftop screening at the Pink Flamingo Rooftop Cinema is by far one of the best and most romantic things to do in Cape Town for couples!
#Book a romantic picnic at Boschendal
Photo credit: Boschendal Wine Estate
Romantic Cape Winelands picnic for two anyone? Nestled in the breathtaking Franschhoek Valley is a 300-year-old wine farm that serves up a romantic experience for two – the one and only Boschendal Wine Estate of course!
Dappled sunlight with a generous relaxed atmosphere set the scene for a romantic and memorable affair. Choose between a table & chair or picnic blankets and lawn chair option – the choice is yours. You are also more than welcome to bring your own blankets and chairs along if you so choose and enjoy a leisurely, tranquil afternoon complemented by the best local, seasonal produce and treats packed for your indulgence.
That’s not all! To top it off, your romantic picnic for two will be perfectly paired with sensational sweeping views of the majestic Cape Winelands and beyond. What more could you possibly ask for?
#Go on a Sunset Champaign Cruise
There is nothing that says romance quite like a romantic sunset cruise with your partner through the waters of the glorious Atlantic.
Not only do you get to enjoy an afternoon / evening of pure extravagance and luxury with your significant other but have the remarkable opportunity of watching the magnificent sunset, all while being surrounded by picturesque views of the glorious Mother City in all her glory.
There are countless charters and sunset cruise options to choose from. Each offering their own unique packages and specials to make your sunset cruise experience that much more memorable.
#Enjoy a Couple’s Massage
Photo credit: One&Only Cape Town
Its no secret that the Cape is known for its spectacular spas and tranquil sanctuaries. From vineyard retreats to luxurious urban oases, and even a slick sky-scraping city spa where you can escape into a parallel universe for an hour or two – there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.
Why not treat yourself and the special person in your life to a day of pampering and relaxation at one of Cape Town’s incredible spas? From aromatherapy massages, mineral scrubs, or a destressing deep-tissue massage to an indulgent pampering session, facials, detox treatments, and of course the holy grail – a romantic couple’s massage – there’s a spa treatment for every occasion.
The onsite spa treatments are tailored to suit the needs of you and your partner, plus you can add in cocktails or a romantic dinner for two – turning your spa day into a whole romantic experience you won’t soon forget.
Here are some of the best spas in Cape Town and the Winelands, perfect for a day of pampering, indulgence, relaxation, and rejuvenation:
- One&Only Cape Town Spa
- The Twelve Apostles Spa
- Librisa Spa at the Belmond Mount Nelson
- Steenberg Spa
- Mai Thai Wellness Spa
- Fresh Wellness Spa at The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel
- Heavenly Spa by Westin
- The Alphen Spa
- Angsana Spa at The Vineyard Hotel
- Sanctuary Spa at the Waterfront
- Spa at Cape Grace
- Jiva Spa at Taj Cape Town
- Lanzerac Spa (Stellenbosch)
- The SPA at Spier (Stellenbosch)
- Delaire Graff Spa (Stellenbosch)
- Majeka House Spa (Stellenbosch)
- The Hydro at Stellenbosch (Stellenbosch)
- Babylonstoren Garden Spa
- Leeu Spa by Healing Earth (Franschhoek)
- Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa
- Lurra Spa at Erinvale
#Go Horseback Riding on the Beach
Photo credit: Imhoff Equestrian Centre
Picture this: You’re on one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town, the sun is setting, the ocean waves are crashing at your feet, and you’re blissfully galloping along the shoreline on horseback with the love of your life by your side – a pretty perfect picture isn’t it? Well, it doesn’t have to be!
While it may sound like a scene straight out of a romance novel, it can just as easily be your reality! Going on a romantic and magical horseback ride on the breathtaking Noordhoek Beach at sunset is undoubtedly one of the best activities for couples in Cape Town – hands down!
Besides the sheer unapologetic natural beauty that surrounds you, you’ll also trot past a shipwreck (among many other things) as you explore one of the longest (and most beautiful) beaches on the coastline.
Have a look at our ‘Best Cape Town Beach Horse Riding Experiences’ blog for some great ideas.
#Romantic sunset drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive
Named one of the most magnificent coastal drives in the world, Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of Cape Town’s most sought-after attractions. This captivating coastal road ribbons along the Atlantic coastline between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. Besides showcasing some of the most sensational views over the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll pass rugged mountains, picturesque white-sand beaches, and vibrant fishing harbors along the way.
If you’re looking to experience something extra special, nothing beats a sunset drive along the amazing Chapman’s Peak. It isn’t known as one of the best sunset spots in the city for nothing.
** Important note: Chapman’s Peak Drive may be closed during severe weather, or because of road maintenance. Contact the customer service line (021 791 8220) or visit their Facebook page or website to check the current status.
- Location: M6 | Chapmans Peak Drive, Atlantic Seaboard, Cape Town
- Best time: Best during daylight hours | Particularly beautiful at sunset
- Cost: Chapman’s Peak Drive is a toll road, and as such requires as toll tariff fee. Each category of vehicle pays a different tariff and the tariff is applicable in each direction.
- Toll Details: Click here to find out more about the Chapman’s Peak Standard Toll Tariffs | Click here to find out more about Chapman’s Peak Day Passes | Click here to find out more about Chapman’s Peak Frequent User Benefits
#Watch The Sunset From The Chapman’s Peak Look-out Cave
While we’re on the all-important topic of Chapman’s Peak – Watching the sunset from the Chapman’s Peak Look-out Cave – one of Cape Town’s most remarkable hidden gems and secret sunset spots – is without a doubt one of the most romantic things to do in Cape Town.
**Note: Beyond Chapman’s Peak’s undeniable beauty, irresistible allure, and spectacular sweeping views, it is known for its amazing array of hidden gems and secret spots scattered along the route. One of these hidden gems being the secret Look-out Cave.
Like all of the Mother City’s best kept secrets, you may need to wander a little off the beaten path to find it. Make your way along Chapman’s Peak Drive until you reach the famous Chapman’s Peak Lookout Point – This is where the real adventure begins!
Positioned just below the pass, you’ll have to climb over the railing and carefully make your way down the mountainside to reach the Lookout Cave. Once you’ve reached this cool secret hideaway and stunning sunset spot, it’s time to sit back, relax and soak it all in. The sheltered sand-stone cave boasts the perfect view over Hout Bay and Atlantic Ocean. An extra bonus is that it has enough space to enjoy a picnic and a few sundowners paired with one hell of a view, all of which can be enjoyed with that special someone by your side.
#Enjoy a romantic dinner at Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic in Hout Bay
Photo credit: Chefs Warehouseat Tintswalo Atlantic
Located on Chapman’s Peak Drive, right on the ocean shore, you’ll be treated to uninterrupted ocean and mountain range views, complemented by the sound of waves lapping gently against the rocks of the hotel and restaurant’s outdoor deck.
Each table at Chefs Warehouseat Tintswalo Atlantic overlooks the spectacular view from all angles, taking your ocean-front dining experience to the next level. As for the food, you can look forward to Chef Liam Tomlin’s famed tapas-for-two concept with seasonal ingredients that are exquisitely plated.
- Location: Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Town
- Contact details: 021 541 0165 | [email protected] | www.chefswarehouse.co.za/cw-tintswalo
- Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: Lunch: 12pm – 2pm | Dinner: 6pm – 8:30pm | Sunday Dinners from 6:30pm | Reservation required
#Go on an exhilarating & stunning sunset hike
While hiking might not seem like the most romantic thing to do with your partner, you may be pleasantly surprised. In fact, an extraordinary and exhilarating hiking adventure with your significant other paired with some of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever encounter makes for an unforgettable bucket-list worthy experience.
Cape Town is the ultimate hiking mecca. Boasting a variety of beautiful and thrilling hiking trails, ranging from beginner to advanced, there is something for every avid hiker at heart. Even if you’ve never hiked a day in your life, Cape Town’s thriving hiking scene welcomes you with open arms.
To take it to the next level, the Mother City is home to some seriously sensational sunset spots and hiking routes. Its no surprise that going on the ultimate sunset hike with your partner has become one of the top romantic things to do in Cape Town all year-round.
To ensure you have the absolute greatest experience, here are some of the best sunset hikes in Cape Town to add to your Cape Town hiking bucket-list:
- Kloof Corner
- The Pipe Track
- Lion’s Head
- Signal Hill
- Lion’s Head Loop Hiking Trail
- Elephant’s Eye Cave
- Table Mountain
To find out more about these amazing hiking trails – Check out our ‘Best Sunset Hikes in Cape Town’ blog.
#Watch the sunset from one of Cape Town’s magnificent sunset spots
Cape Town is home to some seriously spectacular sunset spots. There is no denying that the Mother City is pure sunset bliss, known for her stunning sherbet colored sunsets that set the sky alight in a beautiful celebration of colors.
Going on the ultimate sunset chasing adventure has become one of the top things to do in Cape Town all-year round. But sometimes you need to wander a little off the beaten path to find the real sunset hidden gems – That’s when the real sunset adventure begins!
**Here are our top secret sunset and overall best sunset spots in Cape Town, all of which deserve a prime spot on your sunset bucket-list:
- Look-out Cave on Chapman’s Peak Drive | *Secret Sunset Spot
- The Clifton Ridge Rocks | *Secret Sunset Spot
- Lions Head
- Table Mountain
- Signal Hill
- Llandudno Beach
- The ‘Sunset Rock’ | *Secret Sunset Spot
- Diaz Beach | Cape Point | *Secret Sunset Spot
- Kloof Corner
- Bloubergstrand Beach
Check out our ‘Best sunset spots in Cape Town’ blog for everything you need to know about Cape Town’s magnificent and magical sunset spots.
#Visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
If you and your significant other are head-over-heels nature lovers, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is the perfect picturesque fairy tale escape.
Located right at the base of the renowned Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Gardens is acclaimed as one of the Great Botanic Gardens in the World, showcasing one of the most remarkable displays of indigenous natural beauty in the city.
Boasting endless stretches of lush greenery, lovely lawns, age-old trees, secret waterfalls and flowing streams, a glorious diversity of flora entirely indigenous to Cape Town, and spectacular views and surrounding scenery, this natural gem creates a breathtakingly beautiful and romantic setting for an unforgettable day spent in Cape Town.
To make this special occasion even more enthralling, Kirstenbosch offers hidden rock pools, forest escapes under the trees, secret waterfalls, the infamous Treetop Canopy Walk (known as the ‘Boomslang’), and lovely pathways complimented by incredible views of Table Mountain.
**Pack a lovely picnic basket with champagne and celebrate a romantic day in style in one of the most beautiful settings in Cape Town.
**To find out more about Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, have a look at our ‘Top 5 Reasons To Visit Kirstenbosch Gardens’ blog
#Take a trip up Signal Hill
Planning a romantic trip up Signal Hill will without a doubt be an equally magnificent and memorable experience. Regarded as one of the most stunning and sought-after locations in Cape Town, the view from its 350m high summit is nothing short of spectacular. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain, Lions Head, and the glorious city of Cape Town, you’ll be utterly mesmerized.
If you’re looking to make your Signal Hill excursion extra memorable, why not plan a romantic picnic at sunset? Signal Hill isn’t known as one of the best sunset spots in Cape Town for nothing. The golden sunlight will add to the magical atmosphere making it a moment neither of you will ever forget.
**Extra Signal Hill Insight: In the evenings, Signal Hill is known as ‘lovers lane’ – popular with couples who are up there to enjoy the lights and the romance of the Table Mountain backdrop, particularly during summer when Table Mountain is lit at night.
#Explore the beautiful Hidden Valley
Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain near Stellenbosch, Hidden Valley is one of the Cape Winelands’ most beautiful Wine Farms. For those who love to go slightly off the beaten track in search of Cape Town’s best kept secrets and lesser-known hidden gems, Hidden Valley is the perfect place for the perfect romantic day out with the one you love.
The jewel of the farm is shrouded by fynbos, vineyards, and olive groves, and boasts spectacular views of vast mountain ranges, thriving vineyards, and stunning surrounding scenery.
To add an extra special touch, Hidden Valley Wine Farm offers you a delightful picnic basket to enjoy, plus you can enjoy a wonderful wine tasting experience and celebrate in true Cape Winelands style.
#Visit Klein Roosboom Boutique Winery
Photo credit: Klein Roosboom Boutique Winery
Known as the keeper of one of Cape Town’s best-kept wine tasting secrets, Klein Roosboom Boutique Winery is any head-over-heels wine lover’s dream wine escape. Offering wine enthusiasts one of the most unique and enthralling wine tasting experiences, its hard to resist a visit to this beautiful one-of-a-kind Western Cape wine gem.
Beyond merely enjoying a tasting of Klein Roosboom Boutique Winery’s array of exceptional wines, you get to do so in a destination that is truly unlike any other – your very own cave! How amazing is that?!
Klein Roosboom has reclaimed and lovingly restored their former wine storage facilities (‘caves’), creating romantic wine tasting nooks ideal for a cosy tasting-for-two – Undoubtedly making it one of the most romantic things to do in Cape Town for couples.
Each cave has been tastefully decked out with roses, old-fashioned decor pieces, and soft natural lighting, creating the most magical romance-filled setting and mood for a memorable occasion and celebration.
