There’s nothing quite like a Cape Town braai. Good food, cold drinks, friends and family, and a day spent outdoors - what more do you need?
Whether you’re after an ocean view, a shady spot among the trees or a mountain escape, Cape Town has plenty of places to unpack the cooler box, light the fire and settle in for the day.
So grab the boerewors, pack the picnic blanket and get ready to braai your way around the city.
Here are seven braai spots in and around Cape Town to add to your list.
Maiden’s Cove
Best for: Ocean views and sunset
Cost: Free
Tucked between Clifton and Camps Bay, Maiden’s Cove combines a laid-back braai with some of Cape Town’s most impressive coastal views.
The grassy picnic area overlooks the Atlantic, with views of the Twelve Apostles, Table Mountain and the surrounding coastline. There are designated braai facilities, making it a popular spot for spending an afternoon outdoors before watching the sunset.
The area is fairly exposed, so check the weather before heading out on a particularly windy day.
Why go: Beautiful ocean views and a classic Cape Town backdrop.
Tokai Forest
Best for: A shady family braai
Cost: R44 per adult; R22 per child for South African citizens and residents
SADC Nationals: R90 per adult, R45 per child
International Visitors: R200 per adult, R100 per child
Tokai Forest offers a greener alternative to the city's coastal braai spots. The picnic and braai areas are surrounded by trees, providing plenty of shade and space for families and larger groups.
It’s a good option for a relaxed afternoon outdoors, particularly if you want somewhere where you can spread out, eat and enjoy the surrounding forest.
Why go: Plenty of shade, greenery and space for groups.
Wynberg Park
Best for: Family days out
Cost: Free
Wynberg Park is more than just a place to braai. The spacious park has grassy areas, picnic and braai facilities, walking paths, a duck pond and a children's playground.
That makes it an easy choice for families who want to spend the whole day outdoors, with plenty for children to do while the adults get the fire going.
Why go: Family-friendly facilities and plenty of space to relax.
Oudekraal
Best for: A coastal day out
Cost: R44 per adult; R22 per child for South African citizens and residents
SADC Nationals: R90 per adult, R45 per child
International Visitors: R200 per adult, R100 per child
Located within Table Mountain National Park between Llandudno and Bakoven, Oudekraal offers a braai experience surrounded by dramatic mountain and ocean scenery.
The sheltered cove has designated braai areas and is also popular for swimming, snorkelling and picnicking. You can easily turn a simple braai into a full day beside the water.
Why go: Mountain views, ocean access and a full day of outdoor activities.
Blaauwberg Nature Reserve
Best for: A beach-and-braai day
Cost: R20 per vehicle; R20 per adult; R15 for children aged 3–17, tertiary students and senior citizens; under-3s enter free.
Blaauwberg Nature Reserve is another option for those who like their braai with a view of the coast.
The reserve has designated braai and picnic areas with built-in braais, picnic tables, toilets and a small playground. Its proximity to the beach means you can combine lunch around the fire with a walk along the coast.
And, of course, there’s that iconic view of Table Mountain across the bay.
Why go: Beach access, family facilities and spectacular views.
Silvermine
Best for: A mountain escape
Cost: R44 per adult; R22 per child for South African citizens and residents
SADC Nationals: R90 per adult, R45 per child
International Visitors: R200 per adult, R100 per child
If you want to combine your braai with mountain scenery, Silvermine is a strong contender.
The picnic area sits among the fynbos near the Silvermine Reservoir, offering a scenic setting for a day outdoors. There are also walking and hiking routes nearby, so you can work up an appetite before settling down for lunch.
Because Silvermine falls within Table Mountain National Park, braaiing is subject to fire-risk restrictions and seasonal conditions.
Why go: Mountain scenery, fynbos and the chance to turn your braai into a full day in nature.
Newlands Forest Picnic Site
Best for: A leafy escape
Cost: R44 per adult; R22 per child for South African citizens and residents, plus R25 per vehicle.
For a braai surrounded by trees rather than sand or ocean, Newlands Forest offers a peaceful setting on the slopes of Table Mountain.
The picnic area is surrounded by greenery and provides an opportunity to escape the city's busy streets without travelling far.
Why go: A forest setting close to the city.
Good to know: Newlands Forest Picnic Site is subject to seasonal closures, so check its current operating status before planning your visit.
Before you go
Braai facilities, opening hours, entry fees and fire restrictions can change, particularly during periods of high fire risk. Check with the relevant park or venue before heading out and use designated braai areas only.
Pack the meat, bring the cooler box and, most importantly, leave no trace when you’re done.