Experience Cape Town Like a Local: Our Top Things To Do

When in Cape Town, do as the Capetonians do! Whether it is your first visit to Cape Town or your tenth, it can be tricky to find the best things to see and do beyond the obvious. It is absolutely worth visiting Robben Island and Boulders Beach and there is no doubt that the view from the top of Table Mountain is breath-taking, but if you have seen and done these before or are looking to “do as the locals do” then you have come to the right place.

At Mahlatini Luxury Travel, we don’t just know Cape Town, we live here. With an office in the heart of the city and a team of dedicated Travel Experts who call it home, we offer a personalised gateway to unique local experiences.

A Family Day in Noordhoek with Dave

“Nothing beats a day in Noordhoek with my wife and kids,” says Travel Expert Dave Schubach. “We start with a walk or surf at Long Beach, followed by lunch and wine tasting at the incredibly scenic Cape Point Vineyards, which overlooks Long Beach and offers exquisite sunsets. We then spend the evening at Café Roux, a family-run venue where live music and a local crowd create the perfect end to the day."

A Tidal Pool Dip with Nicole

When Nicole Sorour, our Marketing Communications Specialist, needs to reset and feel refreshed, she heads to Saunder’s Rocks Beach, a wind protected tidal pool haven located in Sea Point. “After a chilly dip, I love to reward myself with a hot chocolate and a delicious breakfast at Oranjezicht Farmer’s Market at the V&A Waterfront, just a 3-minute drive away. Open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 2 pm, this is a foodie affair with fresh, local produce front and centre (you have to try Kleinsky's bagels!). Other notable Cape Town tidal pools would be Dalebrook and St James tidal pools in Kalk Bay."

Wine Estate Adventures with Megan

Marketing Co-ordinator, Megan Phillipson’s ideal weekend includes exploring scenic wine estates in and around Cape Town. “This is a great way to combine diverse food and wine offerings with nature and the outdoors! For luxury, Delaire Graff Estate in Stellenbosch is unmatched. If you’re after something more unique, Klein Roosboom in Durbanville has private cave tastings where you can indulge in a platter or deli picnic with live entertainment afterward. I also love Spice Route in Paarl for their variety of food experiences. Peter Falke in Stellenbosch is especially fantastic during the summer months as they stay open a little later (until 8 pm). There, you can tuck into platters, enjoy their wine bar, and lounge on huge bean bags nestled under the shady trees."

Scenic Open-Air Cinema with Caroline

“There’s nothing quite like a summer night at Kirstenbosch for the Galileo Open Air Cinema,” says Caroline Groenveldt, Travel Expert and Team Leader. “Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cape Town’s most iconic botanical garden, it’s a magical way to enjoy classic films under the stars. If you don’t have time to prepare a picnic to take with you, there are excellent local food vendors on site. Just be sure to bring some cash, as not all stalls accept cards. My top tip? Find your spot on the lawn first, then head to the food stalls early. The queues can get long, and most vendors close once the movie begins.”

Delicious Kalk Bay Eats with Jessica

“For a relaxed summer evening, I always recommend a scenic drive to Kalk Bay Harbour,” says Travel Expert Jessica Maybery. “Here, you’ll find some of the best fish and chips served in enamel plates, with unbeatable ocean views. Also in Kalk Bay, Olympia Café and Bakery is a hidden gem, famous for its freshly baked goods and charmingly unpolished atmosphere. If you're a chocolate lover, you have to visit Honest Chocolate Café, a local artisanal chocolate café. You can indulge in their selection of hot drinks, cakes, hand-crafted chocolates and ice creams, with dairy-free and vegan options available."

Markets & Marine Life with Bronwyn

Travel Expert Bronwyn Bredell recommends a taking a late afternoon boat trip to spot Cape Fur seals, followed by a visit to the lively Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay which is open from Friday to Sunday. “Live music, food, and great vibes make it one of our favourite weekend hangouts. Sometimes we will go next door to visit Hout Bay breweries for some amazing craft beers. Nearby, my kids love visiting Acrobranch, an an outdoor aerial tree adventure park which is open on most weekends."

Why Book Your Cape Town Holiday with Mahlatini?

When it comes to luxury travel in Cape Town, Mahlatini is a local expert with global insight. We specialise in tailormade luxury holidays curated with care, deep local insight and meticulous attention to detail.

With an office in Cape Town and a team of well-travelled specialists on the ground, we bring you insider access to the very best the city has to offer. From hidden beach retreats to gourmet tastings and immersive local experiences. Whether you're planning your first South African safari or a return trip to explore deeper, we’ll design an itinerary that perfectly suits your style.

Plan your next Cape Town holiday with Mahlatini for a personalised luxury travel experience. Voted the World's Best City in 2025 for the 11th year in a row, there's never been a better time to go. Ready to travel like a local? Speak to a Cape Town travel specialist today.