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November in Cape Town: The calm before festive season

As we amble towards another picture-postcard summer, the Mother City is on the cusp of a bumper tourist season. Nestled between the blossoming spring and the vibrant festivities of the upcoming holiday season, November is the calm before the storm.

We invite you to mix up your routine, get out and enjoy some of our favourite spots, savouring the culinary delights, and revelling in all the cultural treasures that make Cape Town come alive in November.

From sipping world-class wines amid lush vineyards to exploring the vibrant arts and crafts markets, there’s a wealth of new experiences waiting to be discovered. Let’s become tourists in our own city and celebrate Cape Town’s gems before the world arrives.

Here are our team’s recommendations for a perfect day in Cape Town. 😀🌞

Saunders Rock Beach

Beach, Bathe, Brunch:

Start with a morning walk or run on the promenade followed by a cold water ocean tidal pool dip. A delicious brunch at all-time favourite La Perla – the fantastic seafront restaurant, and end the afternoon sunbathing at Saunders’ Rock Beach session.

Museums, Movies & Mountains:

A perfect November day can start with a mesmerizing stroll through the Glass Museum at Glenelly Wine Estate, then indulge in the nostalgia of catching a movie at the Labia Theatre and end off with a cablecar ride up Table Mountain watching the sun set over the city.

Grand Africa Café & Beach

Sunday-Funday:

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast at Oranjezicht Market, then head out on a thrilling jetski ride at Oceana Boat Club (which offers tranquil kayaking trips too). Afterward, enjoy pizza and cocktails at Grand Beach Cafe before heading out on a scenic drive along the Atlantic Seaboard – leisurely beach walks, sunbathing, and sunsets along the trendy spots on the Camps Bay strip.

Sun, Sea, Fish & Chips:

We recommend starting the day early and enjoying a drive along the False Bay coast making a midway stop at Millers’s Point to your dip in the waters. They then head to Kalky’s for a delightful lunch, followed by a refreshing afternoon swim at Dalebrook Tidal Pool.

Dalebrook Tidal Pool

Vergelegen Wine Estate

Winelands Day Out:

Another one of our favourite activities is heading out to the Winelands and starting the day with a fabulous brunch, followed by a wine tasting and a late afternoon picnic at Vergelegen Wine Estate. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful spring weather and indulge in the region’s finest culinary and wine offerings.

Family-Fun Weekend at Drakenskloof:

Drakenskloof is a hidden gem nestled in a fynbos ravine. This idyllic retreat offers luxurious comfort as well as a plethora of activities that cater to both adults and children. Enjoy scenic walks and drives amidst the lush landscape or engage the little ones in delightful pursuits like collecting eggs for breakfast pancakes and interacting with friendly donkeys, adding a touch of rustic charm to your stay. The house exudes 5-star comfort, providing a haven of relaxation after your day’s adventures. A mere 1.5 hours from Cape Town makes for an ideal destination for your next family-friendly escape or a romantic getaway.

A Whirlwind City Tour:

Take advantage of the beautiful spring weather, and explore the city on a Red Bus City Tour while creating precious memories with family and friends. As the sun sets, gather the clan and enjoy a wonderful braai.

Chapmans Peak Drive cc More Quarters

Just the Two of You:

Cruise down the scenic coastal road, indulging in a refreshing coffee break at Chapman Peak’s kiosk, before stopping for lunch at Massimo’s in Hout Bay. Returning via the charming towns of Kalk Bay and Glencairn is an essential part of a perfect November day – a cherished activity free from bustling crowds.

A day in Stellenbosch:

Another fabulous November day in Cape Town can include wine tasting at Peter Falke Wines, where you can relax on the lawn and soak up the sun and head out on a strawberry picking adventure. We recommend making a refreshing strawberry daiquiri when back at home 😉

A City Eats Tour:

Another fabulous November day in Cape Town can include a guided eats tour in the city that shows you what life is like as a local in Cape Town.  You will climb under the skin of the city and taste its flavours, stop to chat in local cafes and explore our history, and our people, and also sample the incredible cuisine.

Active Outdoors Day:

Explore the outdoors in nature with a forest hike with Mother City Hikers at Silvermine Waterfall Loop – this trail is ideal for smaller children and offers picturesque water streams. After the hike, enjoy a picnic where kids get to enjoy the children’s play area at Cape Point Vineyards to wrap up the day.

Kids play area at Cape Point Vineyards

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Family, Nature, Entertainment:

Indulge in family time with wine tasting and lunch in Constantia, then head over to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens for a leisurely hike or walk followed by a picnic with an open-air movie or Summer Sunset concert.

Wine & Workshops:

November is a great time to visit Boschendal to savour their incredible selection of wines and have lunch at the Werf Restaurant which offers a charming garden to explore. And on weekends enjoy their vibrant market and attend one of their various workshops. You can also enjoy browsing through the shop, which is filled with locally produced treats that are simply irresistible.

Meal at Boschendal cc Claire Gunn


In this article
  • Introduction
  • Beach, Bathe, Brunch
  • Museums, Movies & Mountains
  • Sunday-Funday
  • Sun, Sea, Fish & Chips
  • Winelands Day Out
  • Family-Fun Weekend at Drakenskloof:
  • A Whirlwind City Tour
  • Just the Two of You
  • A day in Stellenbosch
  • A City Eats Tour
  • Active Outdoors Day
  • Family, Nature, Entertainment
  • Wine & Workshops
  • Events in November in Cape Town:

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