Cape Town, Curated: A Guide to Beaches, Bites & Bucket List Moments

High Tea at Silo Hotel: Elevate your afternoon with High Tea at Silo Hotel. Savor exquisite teas and treats against the stunning backdrop of Table Mountain and the bustling harbor.

Glen Beach: Perfectly hidden between Camps Bay and Clifton with stunning views of the Twelve Apostles. You won’t find many tourists or beach peddlers here, which makes it perfect for a morning beach dip or afternoon tanning.

Dolphin kayaking: I’ve kayaked with Brad twice and both times have not been disappointed! The first trip, we saw a mother with an infant dolphin within five feet of our kayaks. The second time, we saw at least 10 dolphins swimming all around us. This time there was a larger group kayaking nearby as well, but Brad created a private and curated experience with just the three of us and we got to have a longer and more intimate encounter with the dolphins.

Cape Malay cooking class: Unreal how delicious the samosas are, and I can promise you will cook fusion foods in ways you would not expect. Fayruza is a very welcoming host to her family home with incredible views of all three peaks.

African fabric jewelry making: Come to learn about shweshwe cotton fabric only made in South Africa and Bo Kaap neighborhood, and leave with two beautiful handmade pieces that make the perfect souvenir or gift!

Skin renewal Cape Quarter: I visited Reikardt five times during my stay and can’t rave more about my experience. I was met with incredible professionalism, the most modern technology, and a fraction of the cost compared to prices in the US. I got laser, chemical peel, and microneedling treatments and my skin has never looked better! Reikardt’s perfectionism is reassuring and we always found a way to laugh even during the most painful of procedures!

Hike the Three Peaks: Hike Lions Head, Devil’s Peak, and Table Mountain for the most rewarding views at the top! And to tell everyone you did it. Table Mountain also has a cable car, which is what I opted for.

Flight lesson: Take an introductory flight lesson at Morningstar Flight Academy for a once-in-a-lifetime experience to fly a tiny two-person plane. You will also get an amazing view of Cape Town from above and see Robben Island as well. (And it’s much cheaper than a helicopter tour.)

Bantry Bay: Best for tanning and socializing. Many people come here for cold plunges next to the boulder and to picnic with friends! Always a welcoming and young energy here.

World of Birds: This zoo in Hout Bay has a monkey encounter activity every day from 11:30–1 pm and 2–3:30 pm that you can’t miss. It’s 10 minutes of the cutest little monkeys jumping on your head and eating seeds from your hand.

Breakfast

• The Charles Cafe: The best chocolate croissants in Cape Town.

• Jarryd’s: Great food with a little shop in the back that sells cute bikinis.

• Kleinsky’s: Can’t go wrong with their bagels.

• Strangers Club: Be sure to come on the earlier side as they can get a bit crowded. Lots of local artisan goods sold in the shop here as well!

Lunch

• Nü at Sea Point: Great casual spot for lunch and smoothies. The manager, Sibu, is the most wonderful guy and will surely brighten your day if you stop by!

• Oranjezicht Market: Anything you could want you can find here.

Dinner

• La Colombe: Recommended for Dinner. Best fine dining spot in Cape Town. Make sure to reserve a table at least a month in advance.

• The Butcher Shop & Grill: Amazing tiramisu.

• Bobo’s: Funky vibe with delicious French cuisine.

• Scarpetta: Best Italian in Cape Town.

• Biltong Craft at Mojo Market: Best biltong there is. Premium Wagyu is my personal favorite.

• Nikkei: New and trendy Japanese Peruvian restaurant. The Beer Braised Sesame Short Rib and Miso Caramel Chocolate Fondant are incredible!