Cape Town’s Best Date Ideas: A Local’s Guide to Romantic Adventures

I'll set up for success at any of these locations, but the rest is up to you my friend ? 

SUNDOWNERS AT SUNSET ROCK

A good viewpoint is a place of endless possibilities and romance. We see it in films, and we see it in proposal pictures on social media...this is where the magic happens. If you’re looking to impress someone in Cape Town, then here’s the inside scoop on a hidden hangout. At the top of Bantry Bay is (very literally) nicknamed spot called The Rock and it’s either the start of a scenic walk or an ideal place to watch the sunset. Go the extra mile with a little picnic, if you’re feeling fancy. 

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MORO GELATO ON THE PROMENADE

If you like long walks on the beach, I raise you with long walks on the promenade. It offers the same exquisite ocean and sunset views, but with a long stretch to walk along without the sand. The promenade is along Sea Point's coastline and is heaven on earth for runners, walkers and joggers. A perfect date for the restless and the romantic. You can even meander down onto one of the beaches and make your move. Throw in the best gelato in town & an African Sunset...I can feel the chemistry from here!

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 LIVE JAZZ AT ASOKA

Maybe you’re looking for something with a sophisticated and cosy ambience, where you can sit back with a good Old Fashioned and tuck into a few tapas. Asoka is your place with its rich dark woods, greenery and trees sparkling with fairy lights. Every Tuesday from 8 PM to 10 PM this bar transports guests with live jazz followed by a DJ set. A perfect progression if you ask me. 

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 WATCH A MOVIE AT THE LABIA THEATRE

The pride and joy of local cinephiles, The Labia Theatre opened in 1949 as an Italian Embassy ballroom and operates today as a movie theatre with old-world charm. An alternative circuit of quality films makes this an ideal first-date destination. Tedious blockbusters don’t inspire much conversation, but something indie and arthouse is likely to make you both dig a little deeper. Arrive early and enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace, or bring it inside to sip during the film. You don't get more cultured than this!

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PICNIC AT KIRTSENBOSCH GARDENS 

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is nestled along the slopes of Table Mountain. In the summer months, the lawns are littered with groups of friends and families relaxing, playing board games, snacking and drinking wine. Bring along a picnic blanket, a bottle of wine and a few of your favourites from the best local delis. Check out Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts online for a live performance. These usually run from November through to April. 

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POTTERY PAINTING AT CLAY CAFE

I know what you think...nothing kills a mood like pottery. But don't mock it til your try it. Plus...they serve wine. Instead of just sitting across from each other and making small talk about how ‘great’ the food is, why not flex your creativity or have a laugh about your lack thereof? Clay Café has upgraded our basic lunch or dinner dates with a fun activity that we can leave with a nice addition to our homes. Choose from an array of unfired pottery pieces, colourful paints and tools to create a personalised item. Hot tip: If the date is going well, hand over your mug as a gift with a cute message at the bottom.

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OCEAN KAYAKING, TADEM BIKES & THE ORANJEZICHT MARKET

The good people at Atlantic Outlook know how to make or break a relationship. Tandem kayaking and cycling required coordination and team work. No better way to test a new dynamic: Doing both in the same morning! Added bonus, their HQ is located right by the Oranjezicht Market. The perfect spot to grab some delicious grub and a few drinks. Maybe shares a desert if you haven't yet killed yourself or each other.

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SUNDOWNERS AT THE CHAPMANS PEAK CAVE

There no greater flex than pouring a world class drink in a world class location. This is were local craft gin, ice cold tonics, a few botanicals for flavour at the Chapman's Peak Cave provides a world-class experience!

At the end of the lookout point, you notice a path way down the rock face on right hand side. Be VERY CAREFULLY step through the railing & cautiously descend the path down the cliff. The cave is located directly below the lookout point. P.s. DO NOT do this if you are afraid of heights OR if the weather is bad (strong winds and/or rain.)

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SPEND THE DAY EXPLORING THE GARDENS AT BABYLONSTOREN

Babylonstren know a thing or two about aesthetic! You can spend the entire day exploring the gardens alone! Breakfast at the Greenhouse, lunch at the world-famous Babel or wine tasting at their incredible tasting room (just be aware of the long drive home) can add layers to this experience. The long drive provides the perfect setting to learn more about your day-mission co-pilot. A little introverted or shy? Do some research into his/her favourite music to fill the silence.

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BONUS: WEEKEND WALKS TO THE SECRET FOREST CAFE

This recommendation ticks all the boxes! Get your daily dose of nature and your caffeine fix. The little walk to the cafe provides the perfect setting to learn a thing or two about each other.

The trail starts at the Tokai Park parking area next to the Lions Club. Take the very first path & stay until the end. About 2km down the path, you'll see a wooden walkway. Follow the walkway straight to the café.

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I better be invited to the wedding...