As the sunny season continues its charm offensive, Cape Town offers no shortage of ways to soak up the sunshine and make the most of this magical season in the Mother City. From world-class cultural experiences to incredible hikes, here are 7 not-to-miss experiences this summer.
The Best in Live Entertainment
- Theatre Under the Stars
Nestled in the historic suburb of Wynberg, lies Maynardville Park, home to Cape Town’s beloved open-air amphitheatre hosting talent from across South Africa. This summer, you still have time to catch these two shows shining under the southern stars.
Romeo & Juliet enchants until 25 February, transporting audiences to Verona with a fresh take on the Shakespeare classic. On 25 February, Friends in Harmony: A Choral Celebration unites voices from Cape Town’s diverse communities, celebrating life through song.
Maynardville provides a magical escape into music and theatre. As summer evenings beckon, these shows let you enjoy world-class talent against an unbeatable outdoor backdrop to truly transport you into another world.
- Catch a Show under the Stars
From the oak-lined streets of Stellenbosch to the lush Kirstenbosch gardens, outdoor cinema viewing has become a must-do in Cape Town during summer.
For Valentine’s month, the Galileo Open Air Cinema sets up its silver screen at iconic venues:
- 14 Feb – The Proposal at Nooitgedacht Wine Estate
- 15 Feb – The Wedding Singer at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
- 16 Feb – Gnomeo and Juliet back at Kirstenbosch
- 17 Feb – Romeo and Juliet at Lourensford Wine Estate
Cosy up under the countless stars with popcorn and wine in hand, and let these romantic classics transport you during balmy February nights. A sweet cinema date for couples and friends alike.
- Sip Sundowners on Alto Estate Fridays
Every Friday evening through March, the acclaimed Alto Estate in Stellenbosch hosts its famed Sunset Rouge evenings from 5-9PM. As the winelands glow in golden hour, sip award-winning vintages on the deck against a sweeping backdrop of vineyards and craggy mountains.
To set the mood, local musicians provide live tunes while the last of the sunlight fades behind the Simonsberg peaks. With delectable food pairing perfectly with Alto’s renowned wines, it’s a sublime way to ring in the weekend.
Venture Outdoors in Nature
- Embark on a Full Moon Hike Up Lion’s Head
When the full moon makes its monthly return, every active Capetonian (dogs included!) and visitors embark on a lunar trek up one of Cape Town’s iconic peaks. This is a tried-and-tested must-do Cape Town experience to rub shoulders with the locals and admire some of the best views in town while keeping fit. As dusk settles in, wind along the torch-lit trails up 669m Lion’s Head, the prominent outcrop guarding the harbour and city bowl.
A glowing procession from base to summit begins under the giant moonrise. The 45-minute hike offers stunning views of Cape Town illuminated at night, with the bright moonlight guiding you safely to the top. Gaze back at the glittering metropolis nestled by the Atlantic, and soak up this unbeatable full moon sight.
- Awaken Your Senses with Secret Sunrise
Ease into the day by joining global movement Secret Sunrise’s silent guided meditation and dances on Cape Town beaches. Synchronise movement with music as the glowing sun peeks over the horizon – a blissful way to celebrate life.
- Take Cold Sea Plunges
Local favourites like Saunders Rock tidal pool on the Atlantic Seaboard or Dalebrook tidal pool on False Bay offer brisk but beautiful cold water swims. Take the plunge and charge up for your day – it’s a Capetonian tradition during summer (and sometimes the winter!) months.
- Join a Beach Cleanup
What better way to enjoy Cape Town’s breathtaking coastline than by keeping it pristine? On 9 March at Table View’s Kite Beach, join the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation to collect trash.
Meeting at 9AM in front of the beachfront KFC, volunteers will be armed with bags and gloves to scour the sand for litter during this fun TrashBash event. Bring gloves, a bucket and good vibes!
With endless fun under sunny skies, blissful memories await this Cape Town summer. Whether you’re a visitor or local, get out there and make them!
