The Best Pet-Friendly Venues in Cape Town

Cape Town is an extremely pet-friendly city, with tons of activities, restaurants and outdoor explorations for pets to be involved in. We’ve rounded up our favourite pet-friendly venues and activities in Cape Town in partnership with MedicalAid.Com. This in-depth pet insurance aggregator and comparison tool gives you peace of mind when it comes to pet insurance and safety in South Africa.

A great pet health care plan is a lot like a great medical aid plan for people—it gives pet owners peace of mind that they’ll be able to get the best care for their beloved companion if they get sick or injured. Read on to explore some of our top pet-friendly venues in Cape Town.

Museum of Dogs

A must-visit for any pet lover in Cape Town, the Museum of Dogs is dedicated to celebrating dogs and exploring their role in history as comforters, friends, and workers through captivating stories and interactive displays.

The museum features a diverse range of exhibitions, including ceramic art, photography, paintings, dog-themed films, canine-inspired music, and more. Make sure to get a coffee and explore the dog-themed gift shop.

Leashes required: Yes

Cost: Adults – R100 | Kids under 16 – R50 | Kids under -10 free

When: Tuesday to Sunday | 10am – 5pm
Where: 95 Keerom St, Gardens, Cape Town

Red Sofa Cafe

Red Sofa is a neighbourhood cafe in the heart of Vredehoek, serving delicious and homely meals seven days a week. The space is perfect for a morning of work or catching up with friends, with a roaring fire to keep you warm and an adjacent deli with a variety of treats. Make sure to bring your pet friends!

Leashes required: Yes

When: Monday Friday: 7am – 4.30pm | Saturday & Sunday: 8am – 4.30pm
Where: 21 Derry St, Vredehoek, Cape Town

Weekend Markets in Cape Town and Surrounds

Oranjezicht City Farm Market

The Oranjezicht City Farm Market offers visitors a range of fresh local produce, including organic veg and fruit at their seasonal peak, freshly baked bread, organic honey and dairy products, fresh seafood, free-range meat and eggs, as well as plants and seedlings, compost and gardening supplies and equipment.

There are also various stalls offering artisanal food and refreshment with a range of delicious cooked, baked and raw foods, fresh beverages and good coffee.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Wed: 5pm – 9pm | Sat: 8:15am – 2pm | Sun: 9am – 2pm
Where: Granger Bay Blvd, V&A Waterfront

De Waal Park

A haven for dogs and their owners, De Waal Park is one of the only fully enclosed parks in Cape Town, making it a safe space for dogs to roam and explore freely with other furry friends.

Coffee is available in the park, as well as a kid’s play area and walking paths for a leisurely stroll among the trees. The central fountain is also popular among inquisitive dogs.

Leashes required: No

Where: Molteno Road & Kamp St, CBD, Cape Town

Under the Trees Market

This authentic outdoor market houses a wide selection of artisanal and original products displayed via sun-kissed stalls that are diplomatically arranged amongst the trees. Under The Trees Market is a place to find stunning local creations and enjoy an educational conversation with the crafters and bakers themselves.

Guests are encouraged to bring their four-legged friends or even take one home at the adoption stall.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Sundays | 10am-3pm
Where: False Bay Rugby Club, Sports Complex, Constantia, Constantia Main Road, Alphen, Cape Town

Massimo’s

Massimo’s is an authentic Italian pizzeria and restaurant, with a cosy ambiance and world-renowned dishes. If you bring your dog, take a seat at one of their picturesque outdoor tables, and your furry friend will even receive a doggy menu for their own treat!

For every dog meal purchased, R3 is donated to the Underdog Project, which supports vulnerable children and dogs in Cape Town.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Monday – Thursday: 4pm – 9pm | Friday – Sunday: 12 noon – 9pm
Where: Shop 4, Oakhurst Farm Park, c/o Dorman way and Main Rd, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Company’s Garden

Situated in the middle of the bustling Cape Town CBD is a lush stretch of greenery and walkways, which have been enjoyed by visitors for the sheer beauty of its flora and the allure of its historic setting since it was proclaimed for public use in 1848. The Company’s Garden also offers a great space for city-dwelling dogs to explore a taste of nature.

Make sure to grab a coffee or a bite to eat at the Company’s Garden Cafe, a stylish spot which offers a shaded terrace and a dog-friendly environment.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Garden is open daily, 7am – 6pm | Cafe is open daily, 8.30am – 5.30pm
Where: 12 Government Ave, CBD, Cape Town

Vegan Goods Market

The Vegan Goods Market takes place every first Sunday of the month. It is a welcoming and inclusive space where people can conveniently and easily shop for vegan, eco-friendly and cruelty-free food, beverage, home, and body products.

The market is a meeting place for people from all walks of life, to meet others who are on the same journey as them, to support local, up-and-coming businesses, as well as enjoy a lovely day out with their friends and family, and that includes the doggies too!

Leashes required: Yes

When: First Sunday of the month | 10am – 3pm
Where: The Range, Orpen Rd, Tokai, Cape Town

Noordhoek Farm Village

With its laid-back farm vibe, awesome eateries, and loads of entertainment, Noordhoek Farm Village is one of Cape Town’s most-loved local hangouts.

Just 25 minutes from the city, you’ll also find a cosy country pub, live entertainment at Café Roux, the Cape’s best bakery, handcrafted ice cream, a raw juice bar, a boutique hotel (with an underground bar!), a wide range of shops and so much more. There are also various grassy spots for your dog to explore.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Daily | 8am – 10pm
Where: Noordhoek Farm Village, Corner of Village Lane &, Noordhoek Main Rd, Noordhoek, Cape Town

Maria’s Greek Cafe

Maria’s Greek Cafe is a staple of Cape Town eateries, with a modern take on traditional Greek dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant spills onto the bordering Dunkley Square, making it the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors with your family and dog alike.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Tuesday – Saturday: 8.30am – 10pm | Sunday: 10am – 4pm | Monday: 11am – 10pm
Where: 31 Barnet St, Gardens, Cape Town

Cooling Off In Cape Town This Summer Clovelly Beach

Take a Walk on a Dog-Friendly Beach

Not every beach in Cape Town allows dogs, but the ones that do are a great place for your dog to let off some steam in an open, expansive area. Some of the beaches on which dogs can run freely include:

Clifton 1st
Clovelly
Danger Beach
Glencairn Beach
Lagoon Beach
Long Beach
Windmill Beach

Refer to the City of Cape Town for the full list of beaches that allow dogs, both for free running and on a lead.

Milkwood Jeffry’s Bay Farmer’s Market

Milkwood Market is a family-friendly market situated in Jeffreys Bay, nestled under the Milkwood Trees. The perfect place to meet friends while enjoying good food, music & a variety of handmade products & so much more. The market is also pet friendly, so make sure to bring your dog.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Various Saturdays | Next 30 August 2025 | 9am – 1pm
Where: Fountains Mall, Jeffry’s Bay

Deer Park

Deer Park Cafe is a neighbourhood favourite that opens onto a public play park overlooking the city, shaded by stone-pine and yellowwood trees.

A dedicated committee has managed to turn this park into one of the best-equipped playgrounds in town, which also has space for dogs to play and explore.

The cafe menu changes regularly but there are always authentic Indian dishes, as well as vegan and vegetarian options, a fresh pasta, choice of hand-rolled, wood-fired pizzas, and a popular children’s menu. Free-range, fresh, local, seasonal ingredients are complimented by good coffee, wines, craft beers and cocktails.

Leashes required: Yes (in cafe)

When: Park is open daily, 7am – 7pm | Cafe is open daily, 8am – 9pm (except until 8pm on Saturday)
Where: 2 Deerpark Dr W, Vredehoek, Cape Town

Radloff Dog Park

Radloff Dog Park, situated alongside the Lourensford river, offers a paerfect environment for dogs and owners alike to explore the outdoors. The park features a slow-flowing river where dogs can cool down, while well-maintained grass allows them to run freely without a leash.

Visitors can enjoy walking or jogging along the path, and kids can splash in the water or make use of the adjacent skate and bike park.

Leashes required: No

Where: 15 Radloff Park River Trail, Radloff Park, Cape Town

The Backyard Cafe

The Backyard Cafe is a hidden gem, tucked away in a beautiful garden setting, and is a great spot for a coffee or catch-up with friends. Situated in the garden of quaint furniture shop The Opposition, the Backyard Cafe is a secret Cape Town oasis, and is also extremely friendly towards dogs.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Daily | 8.30am – 4.30pm
Where: 4 Sol Cohen Rd, Heathfield, Cape Town

Root44 Market

The Root44 market is an indoor and outdoor experience, with funky live entertainment, an awesome selection of food and wine, and the perfect place for leisurely browsing.

Every weekend, the market hosts different live musicians to keep you entertained in a variety of genres. Enjoy a glass of wine and a family day out.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Saturdays and Sundays | 10am – 6pm
Where: Root44, Corner of R44 and Annandale Rd, Stellenbosch

Take on a Trail Run Together

Cape Town is no short of trail running routes, and active dogs are the perfect companions for a high-energy run among the beautiful mountains. Our guide offers our favourite trail running routes across the city, which you can take on based on skill level and difficulty.

Our Guide to Trail Runs in Cape Town

Green Point Park & Cafe

Green Point Park is a secure, natural place to get some fresh air and be social. The park offers rolling green fields and a beautiful natural biodiversity. Dogs can explore the park on a lead, or romp in the designated off-leash park area.

The Park Cafe also offers a selection of treats and meals, and looks out from the verandah over the park’s grassy expanse.

Leashes required: Yes (except for designated area)

When: Park open 24 hours | Cafe open daily, 8am – 5pm
Where: Green Point Park, Bay Rd, Green Point, Cape Town

Olive Bistro

The Olive Bistro is a family-owned restaurant in the heart of Durbanville, with a warm and inviting ambience will make you feel welcome. It offers a reliable menu with all the hits, and its outdoor area means that dogs can soak up the ambiance too.

Live music on certain days turns the space into a relaxing environment with a classic feel.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Monday – Saturday: 11am – 11pm | Sunday: 11am – 5pm
Where: 9 Main Road c/o Queen And Main Durbanville, Cape Town

Warwick Wine Estate

Warwick Wine offers guests the chance to enjoy themed wine tastings, vineyard drives and curated picnics in the heart of Stellenbosch. Make a day out of exploring the farm’s offerings with your furry friend, and make sure to take home one of the estate’s iconic wines.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Daily | 9am – 5pm
Where: R44, Stellenbosch

Aegir Project Brewery

Aegir Project prides itself on creating high-quality food and beer, and creating a space of connection and friendship. The brewery offers a wide range of beer options, as well as breakfast, snacks and meal options.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Daily | 9am – 11pm
Where: 65 Beach Road, Noordhoek, Cape Town

Simon’s at Groot Constantia

Simon’s Restaurant at Groot Constantia Wine Estate is a celebration of the richness of the Cape Winelands, with mountain views, a variety of food options, and a cosy dining experience.

The restaurant also offers a dog-focused menu, which includes high-protein, sensitive stomach and healthy meat options for your dog to enjoy.

Leashes required: Yes

When: Daily | 7am – 11pm
Where: Groot Constantia Wine Estate, Groot Constantia Rd, Constantia, Cape Town

Tips for Exploring Cape Town with Pets

Many spots in Cape Town are pet-friendly, but certain etiquette needs to be taken to ensure the safety of you, your pet and others around you. We would recommend:

Making sure you have a leash on you at all times
If travelling on public transport (i.e. MyCiti bus), ensure that your pet has a carrier to travel in
Be mindful of wildlife on hikes or in nature areas
Check local Facebook groups or blogs for pet-friendly meetups and connections in the city
Make sure you pick up after your pet in all public areas

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