Best Winter Things to Do in Hout Bay

Hout Bay, like so many other beautiful parts of the Mother City, is a glorious destination to explore during summertime as balmy beach days, thrilling outdoor excursions and special sunsets set the tone for summer and fun in the sun.

What many people don’t know, though, is that Hout Bay is just as beautiful and lovely to explore in wintertime.

Sure, there are misty and rainy days to navigate but, with so many wonderful indoor experiences and delightfully cosy spots in and around our charming coastal village, there’s plenty to savour in winter too!

In this post, we share our best winter things to do in Hout Bay.

Visit Noteworthy Local Hout Bay Markets

Photo credit: houtbayvillagemarket.co.za

The Bay Harbour Market, near the historic Hout Bay harbour, is a Cape Town institution of note. Locals and tourists alike love this vibey indoor market, where everything from local handmade wares to second-hand books, gifts, delicious food and South African keepsakes vie for your attention - and money.

And, while we certainly love The Bay Harbour Market and highly recommend a visit, another long-standing, enjoyable market is the seasonal Hout Bay Village Market, which operates outdoors in Mainstream Park.

And while it isn’t truly a winter experience (it’s generally on from spring to autumn), it’s near enough to the start of winter to warrant a mention. For example, the 2026 market ended on 8 June.

This family- and pet-friendly craft market, held on Sundays, offers a variety of different stalls selling everything from artisan goods to fresh food and drinks.

So, if you are looking for some market fun, give The Bay Harbour Market or Hout Bay Village Market a try!

Get Creative at Clay Cafe

Photo credit: Clay Cafe Hout Bay via Facebook

If you are seeking a great, family-friendly wintertime experience in Hout Bay, there are few better than spending a day at the rather iconic Clay Cafe Hout Bay.

This branch offers both a child-friendly restaurant and an awesome painting cafe in one. Best of all, this is an experience young and old can enjoy together, before, after or even during their meal.

And, if the weather plays along (we do get some stunning winter days in Cape Town, after all), there is also a wonderful outside play area for kids to enjoy.

As an added bonus, you can also host pretty parties and events here.

Browse a Local Gallery or Museum

Photo credit: Hout Bay Museum via Facebook

Many people who visit Hout Bay come for the travel experiences, outdoor adventure, breathtaking scenery or delicious food and drink options on offer here.

While we’re massive fans of all of the above, it must be said that there is more to Hout Bay’s gems than just these more obvious joys.

For example, it is well worth exploring Hout Bay's various, interesting galleries and its fascinating museum. They are especially ideal for Cape Town’s often unpredictable winter weather as you largely remain indoors.

The most famous gallery is probably the Hout Bay Gallery. This contemporary art gallery, first established in 1974, focuses on sculpture, fine art prints and painting.

As for the museum, it was originally opened in 1979 and now carefully documents the history of charming Hout Bay, showcasing its forestry, tourism, mining and fishing industry from the olden days to the still-thriving present.

The museum is open Monday - Friday from 8am - 4pm but is closed on weekends and public holidays.

Dine Out in Hout Bay

Photo credit: Nostos Cape Town via Facebook

Of course, no winter post on Hout Bay is complete without mentioning the wonderful dining experiences you can enjoy here.

Whether you are craving authentic Greek cuisine, fresh Italian pasta, gelato or tasty pizza, fresh coffee and baked goods or even just some fish and chips, there is no shortage of excellent food spots in Hout Bay.

As an added advantage, many of these top food spots are within easy driving or walking distance of our accommodation, especially our expansive, centrally located Harbour View apartment.

Enjoy a Cosy Coastal Getaway

Lastly, why not spend the majority of your winter moments holed up in one of our luxurious self-catering apartments?

We cater to every kind of traveller: couples, families with kids, solo travellers and even business travellers in our respective one-bedroom Riverview, two-bedroom The Boardwalk and three-bedroom Harbour View DK Villa apartments.

They all offer secure parking, modern appliances and stylish, yet comfortable furniture and decor; are well-positioned in Hout Bay; and each offer incredible views of the local scenery, including the mountains and ocean.

And, because we are very passionate about showcasing the beauty and many great experiences of our beloved Hout Bay, don’t be shy to ask us for recommendations.

Otherwise, browse our guidebooks and discover great Hout Bay places of your own choosing!

For more information or to book a cosy Hout Bay getaway with DK Villas, please contact us directly or visit our full website: www.dkvillas.co.za.