Nestled along a stretch of pristine coastline in the Western Cape, not three hours from Cape Town, the Arniston Spa Hotel is the kind of destination that makes you want to linger a little longer. With its breathtaking sea views, family-friendly atmosphere, and easy access to one of South Africa’s most picturesque fishing villages, it recently provided a dream weekend getaway for us and our young children.
Based on our personal experience, here’s why a stay at Arniston Spa Hotel with your family is an absolute must:
1. Just Steps Away From the Beach
It’s rare to find a hotel so perfectly positioned. Step out of the doors of the Arniston Spa Hotel, stroll across the lawn and a quiet road, and you’ll be at the edge of a fantastic little beach with soft white sand and calm tidal pools. These provided the perfect playground for our toddler to explore at low tide, while the warm, shallow waters – with a turquoise hue reminiscent of more exotic destinations like the Maldives or Seychelles – were perfect for paddling.
2. Great In-House Facilities
Beyond the beach, Arniston Spa Hotel boasts excellent facilities to keep guests entertained. A refreshing pool offers relaxation, while complimentary bicycles are available for exploring the scenic coastline and village at your own pace. Just be advised that they don’t have children’s bicycles or seats so if you need these I recommend bringing your own along.
3. Spacious, Family-
Friendly Rooms
One of the biggest concerns we often have when traveling with young children is space. Thankfully, Arniston Spa Hotel offers plenty of room for little ones to roam without feeling cramped. Our room had a large king-size bed for mom and dad, a single for our toddler, plus a separate seating area and even a private balcony with table and chairs for unwinding after a busy day or enjoying the luxury of room service.
4. Fabulous Dining Options
The Arniston Spa Hotel spoils guests with dining choices. The upmarket restaurant, The Dining Room, offered an elegant dining experience with impeccable sea views. But for a more relaxed meal, the Bistro Restaurant provided poolside service and a terrace overlooking the ocean. And not to be missed is the amazing buffet breakfast that caters to all tastes and preferences with cold meats, fruits, an egg station and even pancakes and scones – a hit with our little girl!
5. A Kids Club
Arniston Spa Hotel understands the needs of parents traveling with young children. During school holidays, they offer a drop-and-go kids club in the conference room, complete with hourly craft activities and even a jumping castle outside, ensuring that both parents and kids have a memorable and stress-free vacation.
6. Loads to Explore
Beyond the hotel, Arniston and its surroundings offer plenty of attractions for families. A highlight for us was the nearby fishing village which provides an authentic glimpse into the Western Cape’s fishing culture with local crafts to browse and affordable seafood to enjoy.
7. A Safe, Tranquil Environment
Unlike larger resorts, Arniston Spa Hotel maintains a quiet, laid-back atmosphere that is ideal for families seeking a peaceful retreat. With no bustling high streets or commercial distractions, parents can relax knowing their children can play freely and safely on the hotel’s grassy areas.
8. Member of Cape Country Routes
As a member of Cape Country Routes, Arniston Spa Hotel guarantees quality hospitality and authentic local experiences, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and cared for. And if you want to continue from here on a roadtrip exploring some more of South Africa’s hidden gems, you can find great deals at the route’s other member properties.
Staying at the Arniston Spa Hotel as a family was a truly special experience. The combination of beachside bliss, warm hospitality, and family-friendly amenities made it a hassle-free holiday that we’d gladly repeat. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Arniston delivers on all fronts— with a spectacular ocean view as an unforgettable bonus!