With the upcoming school holidays fast approaching, local parents are already arranging ahead to ensure that those dreaded words “I’m bored!”, don’t become a regular occurrence. Fortunately, Cape Town is an exciting city and Blouberg and the stunning surrounding areas are jam-packed with things-to-do when the schools are closed.
If you are planning a family holiday to Cape Town during the school holidays, enjoy Blouberg Holiday Rentals’ selection of stunning self-catering apartments, homes and villa’s the areas of Bloubergstrand, Sunset Beach, Century City, Milnerton and Melkbosstrand.
Our top 10 School Holiday Activities to enjoy around Cape Town:
Wizard of Oz Musical, Artscape Theatre: From the 16th September to the 8th October, kids and adults alike can enjoy the magic of the classic Wizard of Oz musical by attending a live production at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town city. This community theatre adaptation will take spectators through the adventures of a young girl named Dorothy Gale, who gets swept up by a twister and finds herself in another world. She encounters witches, makes friends with unusual characters and travels through an otherworldly and imaginative universe. Expect music, fun and to be charmed during this live show! Tickets cost anywhere from R150 to R370. Visit www.artscape.co.za for more information, or call 021 410 9800.
Fantasy Skate, V&A Waterfront: Open 7 days a week from the 30th June to the 31st October, families can explore the popular V&A Waterfront as kids enjoy this synthetic ice rink, located on the Pierhead Wharf. Using real skates, kids (over 4 years old) and adults can enjoy an amazing ice skating experience together. Fantasy Skate’s synthetic ice rink was developed by skating professionals in Canada and is operated by a local in Cape Town. It is good to note that proceeds go to the rotary charity. Open weekdays from 11 am to 6 pm, and on weekends from 10 am to 7 pm. Tickets cost only R30 per person, for a 20 minute slot. To get in touch, email info@thebluetrainpark.com, or call 084 314 9200.
Ratanga Junction, Century City: With the recent announcement that Ratanga Junction theme park will be closing its doors in May 2018, locals as well as tourists have their hearts set on visiting this beloved landmark in Century City one last time. During the upcoming school holidays (from 29th September – 8th October), Ratanga will be open daily for tons of family fun, thrilling rides like the famous Cobra rollercoaster and Monkey Falls, as well as over 27 various attractions available for all to enjoy. There are a few restaurants to visit at Ratanga Junction, to keep you fully energized for your day of adventures For more info, call 021 206 1111 or visit www.ratanga.co.za.
Tobogganing at Cool Runnings, Durbanville: The Cool Runnings Taboggan Family Park is the only toboggan track in Cape Town, appropriate for adults and kids over 3 years old. Much like skiing in the snow, guests climb in a “sled” and go down a toboggan steel track (1.25 kilometers) with twists and curves, traveling at the maximum speed of 40 km per hour. There are picnic tables for parties and Cool Runnings also has its own casual restaurant, serving snacks, meals like burgers and pizzas and an assortment of cold drinks and hot drinks. The prices are affordable and Cool Runnings is open from 9 am to 6 pm weekends and from 11 am to 6 pm weekdays. For more info, visit: www.toboggan.co.za or call 021 949 4439.
Glowing Rooms SA, Milnerton – An amazing experience awaits for families and friends of all ages – show of your mini-golf skills by visiting South Africa’s first glow-in-the-dark mini-golf course! With enchanting surroundings that are brought to life in 3D illusions, a world of blended colours and wonderland inspired settings can be discovered. There is also a private and special themed UV event room, for those celebrating a birthday or special event, with disco light tables and chairs and even a sound system. Located in The Gallery at Milnerton, The Glowing Rooms will be open in the school holidays from Tuesday to Sunday. Visit http://www.glowingrooms.co.za for more info, or call 021 551 2244.
Cape Town Science Centre, Observatory: This amazing and interactive Science Centre in the trendy Observatory suburb of Cape Town is all about inspiring our future, as it is said “play is the highest form of research”. A fun-filled and educational centre, The CTSC is equipped with mind-boggling puzzles, brain twisters and even a human gyroscope. From the 30th September to the 8th October this year, kids can enjoy a range of activities and creative challenges. The holiday programme is still to be published, which you can keep track of directly by visiting www.ctsc.org.za, or by calling 021 300 3200. Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 4:30 pm and Sundays and public holidays from 10 am to 4:30 pm.
Two Oceans Aquarium – It is always a good time to visit the captivating Two Oceans Aquarium with the kids in tow. The school holidays are even more exciting, with additional attractions for the little ones that include awesome Penguin Encounters, Microscope and Touch Pool Exhibits, Predator Exhibits and fun extras like face painting and mascots. The I&J Kids Play Centre also offers a ton of fun for children. By booking tickets on the Two Oceans Aquarium website, 10% discounts are afforded. From Jellyfish, clown fish and the unique and fruity Pineapple fish to sharks and stingrays, this spectacular Aquarium will keep everyone fully entertained. For more information, visit www.aquarium.co.za, or call 021 418 3823.
Small Bay Beach, Bloubergstrand: Found along Bloubergstrand’s stunning coastline, Small Bay Beach is the “small sister” beach of the more frequented Big Bay beach front. This beach is less busy than Big Bay beach, making it ideal for intimate family outings and soaking up the sunshine. Breathtaking views of Table Mountain from across the ocean can be enjoyed by all, while activities like surfing and kite-flying are great on windy days. Just a few minutes’ walk from this gorgeous beach is a selection of Blouberg’s ocean-facing cafes and restaurants, many of which offer kiddies menu’s and places to play. If you are planning to spend a day here, be sure to bring some warm clothes along for when the cool wind picks up.
Cape Town Ostrich Ranch, Cape Farms: For a memorable day spent with the entire family, the Cape Town Ostrich Ranch is a fun and educational family run farm. With a playground and a few fun crafts to engage in, children have no shortage of things-to-do here. There are a few small animals to visit at the farm, as well as of course the Ostriches themselves, including the little baby ostriches. Be daring and sit on an ostrich – this is so safe that even a baby can do it. Guests can even spot the smallest Ostrich in the world, registered with the Guinness Book of Records! Feed the ostriches, balance on Ostrich eggs and even enjoy amazing meals at the lovely restaurant, which offers a kids menu too. Visit their website for more info, https://www.ostrichranch.co.za
Intaka Island, Century City: Perfect for warm days of fresh air, Intaka Island can be discovered only minutes from the popular Canal Walk Shopping Mall and is considered a favourite among attractions in Century City. Kids, teenagers and adults can enjoy a number of attractions here, such as a tranquil (about 35 minute long) ferry ride through the Grand Canal and guided or self-guided trails and tours. Rare and abundant birds can be spotted, as well as beautiful South African flora. Intaka Island often feature school holiday programmes to educate and entertain children, and the entry to this island is affordable at only R12.50 for adults and R7.50 for children, while kids under 12 enter for free. For more information, visit www.intaka.co.za
Have a look at Blouberg Holiday Rentals blog post about Winter Attractions by clicking here, to discover even more adventures while enjoying your time in Cape Town.
