Where to take dad this Father's Day in South Africa

This Father's Day, South Africans have a fantastic array of experience-rich getaways and activities to spoil Dad with something truly memorable.
ADVERTISEMENT
Forget the usual ties and mugs. This year, give him moments to savour, whether he's a sports fanatic, a bush adventurer.
FATHER'S DAY, GAME DAY
Treat Dad to game day at The St. Andrews Pub in Somerset West's Lord Charles Hotel, Tribute Portfolio.
This South African Scottish-inspired pub has been lovingly refreshed, retaining its leather booths, warm wood accents, and trophies dating back to Gary Player's heyday.
With big screens, craft beers, a fine whisky list, and nearby top golf courses, it's perfect for dads who love to swing, sip, and cheer.
ADVERTISEMENT
FOR THE WILD AT HEART DAD
If Dad thrives in the great outdoors, the Protea Hotel by Marriott Polokwane Ranch Resort offers 1000 acres of bushveld adventure, according to Time Out.
He can tackle thrilling South African 4×4 trails, enjoy golf, and go on game drives before winding down with a classic bushveld braai and a soak under the stars.
FOR THE SUPER FAN DAD
Football lovers will adore the Orlando Pirates-themed room at Protea Hotel Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge.
Walls adorned with iconic imagery and memorabilia make it a dream stay.
ADVERTISEMENT
Plus, Cape Town's attractions and the V&A Waterfront are just minutes away. This is perfect for reliving the big plays and soaking in the atmosphere.
FOR THE DAD WHO NEEDS A BREAK THIS FATHER'S DAY
Some dads just want to relax. The Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers in Century City offers modern suites, panoramic views. Dad will get access to the award-winning Life Day Spa.
Deep-tissue massages, sauna sessions, and a rooftop pool help Dad recharge in style.
FATHER'S DAY FOR THE GIN GEEK
At the Gin School in Protea Hotel Mossel Bay, Dad can distil his custom bottle, guided by local experts.
ADVERTISEMENT
This hands-on coastal experience blends calm with creativity — a refreshing way to celebrate Father's Day and escape to South African the coast.
FOR THE LAID-BACK FOODIE
Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Durban Umhlanga Ridge is a stylish yet relaxed spot for dads who prefer burgers over brunch.
Known for gourmet burgers and indulgent milkshakes, it offers a sun-soaked escape near the beach, complete with a heated pool and cool cocktails.
FOR THE WHISKEY LOVER
In Sandton, The Bull Run at Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika offers a whisky and tapas pairing experience on 15 June.
ADVERTISEMENT
With a warm atmosphere and expertly selected pairings, it's ideal for dads who appreciate bold flavours and meaningful conversations. This is a fine alternative to the usual Sunday roast.
MAKING MEMORIES THIS FATHER'S DAY
Whether it's a wild ride through the bush, a handcrafted gin bottle, or the perfect pub seat for the big game, these experiences capture the spirit of celebration that South African dads deserve.
So, this Father's Day, swap clichés for adventure, relaxation, and quality time. After all, the best gift is time well spent together.
WHICH OF THESE FATHER'S DAY EXPERIENCES WOULD YOU CHOOSE FOR YOUR DAD?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
ADVERTISEMENT
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

IOL News

an hour ago

• IOL News

Prince Kaybee praises R Kelly's songwriting amid ongoing abuse debate

R Kelly's talent is recognised by many, including South African DJ Prince Kaybee, who recently expressed his admiration for Kelly's songwriting abilities on X. This accolade, while highlighting his tremendous contributions over a decades-long career, struggles to overshadow an array of severe allegations that have tainted his public image. R Kelly , the controversial yet undeniably influential figure in the R&B music scene, has recently been ranked number 9 on Billboard's list of the Best R&B Singers of All Time. Throughout his career, spanning over three decades, Kelly has sold more than 75 million records worldwide, solidifying his position as one of the best-selling music artists in history. Renowned for his vocal prowess and songwriting capabilities, some of his most iconic hits include 'I Believe I Can Fly', 'Bump n' Grind', 'Your Body's Callin'' and 'Ignition (Remix)'. He has earned numerous accolades, including three Grammy Awards for 'I Believe I Can Fly', the theme song for the 1996 blockbuster film 'Space Jam'. Despite these musical achievements, Kelly's story is inextricably linked with allegations of misconduct and abuse that have emerged in recent years, affecting the enjoyment of his music by many. Currently imprisoned at the Federal Correctional Institute in Butner, North Carolina, Kelly is serving time after being convicted of sex trafficking and racketeering in 2021. Following an additional conviction in 2022 for producing child sexual abuse images and enticement of minors, his legacy continues to spark polarised opinions. Even amid this turmoil, his talent is recognised by many, including South African DJ Prince Kaybee, who recently expressed his admiration for Kelly's songwriting abilities on X. 'I know he is f#cked up, but there is NO ONE, 'dead or alive' that's going to be a better R&B songwriter or singer than R. Kelly,' Kaybee stated, igniting a wave of mixed reactions from fans and followers alike.

Eyewitness News

an hour ago

• Eyewitness News

[GALLERY] Walking among giants: Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre launched in Free State

Jacques Nelles 23 June 2025 | 7:35 Free State Department of Tourism SANParks A model of Lesothosaurus diagnostics 'The distinguished lizard of Lesotho' on display at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State, on 21 June 2025. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN JOHANNESBURG - Ledumahadi mafube, a 12-ton, 12-meter-long South African dinosaur first discovered in 1989 by James Kitching in the Free State, is considered the heaviest dinosaur to have roamed the prehistoric Golden Gate Highlands National Park. It is also one of the first dinosaurs to be given a proper African name - "The Giant Thunderclap" - inspired by the sound it may have made as it thundered through the Free State roughly 200 million years ago. The Ledumahadi mafube dinosaur model at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State, on 22 June 2025. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN This massive sauropodomorph is one of South Africa's more well-known dinosaurs, now brought to life in full-scale artistic models at the newly launched Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State. Parts of the found skeleton of the Ledumahadi mafube dinosaur on display at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State, on 21 June 2025. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN The state-of-the-art centre, officially opened by Minister of Tourism Patricia De Lille, is a collaboration between the Department of Tourism and SANParks, designed to enhance the visitor experience at the park. The facility features several life-sized sculptures and provides an exceptional educational experience in paleontology, archaeology, and geology geared towards inspiring curiosity in both young and old visitors about our country's ancient past. A display of dinosaur eggs at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State, on 21 June 2025. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN Early BaSotho communities discovered fossilised bones and footprints of unknown creatures scattered across their homelands, sparking the creation of myths and legends that still echo in BaSotho folklore today. The legend of Kgodumodumo tells of a monstrous being that terrorised villages, devouring anything in its path. When it moved, it shook the very mountains of the BaSotho homeland. One brave young man, Moshanyana wa Senkatana, who grew up hiding from the beast, grew strong and clever in his constant efforts to evade it. After the creature swallowed half his people, he allowed himself to be eaten, armed with food and fire, and ultimately cooked the beast from within, killing it and freeing those trapped inside. Visitors to the newly launched Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN His Majesty Moremoholo Mopeli of the Bakoena Kingdom, who cut the ribbon alongside Minister De Lille on 22 June 2025, expressed his pride in seeing the heritage of his people displayed in such a powerful way. "A lot of the information you see here, the storytelling, the narration, was done by us and our people," he said. A model of Heterodontosaurus tucki on display at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN The centre now employs at least 15 permanent staff, many from the surrounding communities. Locals are encouraged to offer goods and services to both domestic and international tourists, with the hope of growing the local economy through this new attraction. A visitor looks up at a model of Dracovenator regenti, the apex predator of South Africa 200 million years ago on display at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN Funded by the European Union, the R120 million Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is a celebration of African history, science, and storytelling. An artist's reconstruction model of a 'Massospondylus', South Africa's most famous dinosaur on display at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN For a limited time, SANParks is offering free access to all South African citizens until 30 September 2025, an open invitation to walk among giants and rediscover the ancient wonders beneath our feet. Visitors take pictures of an artist's reconstruction model of a 'Massospondylus', South Africa's most famous dinosaur on display at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in SANParks' Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State, on 22 June 2025. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN

IOL News

an hour ago

• IOL News

Celebrating female talent: Relebogile Mabotja and Makhadzi nominated for the 2025 Basadi in Music Awards

Relebogile Mabotja scored nominations across radio, TV and podcasting. Image: Supplied As the countdown begins for the 2025 Basadi in Music Awards, South Africans have cast their votes for the female trailblazers who are reshaping the entertainment landscape. The awards honour women shaping the entertainment landscape through creativity, resilience and influence. The Basadi in Music Awards has long stood as a beacon for recognising female talent, and this year takes a significant leap forward with an expanded range of categories. Women from various sectors of the entertainment industry will receive awards across new categories like Manager of the Year, Makeup Artist of the Year, Podcast Presenter of the Year and Choreographer of the Year, in addition to traditional honours. Among the notable nominees this year, Relebogile Mabotja leads the nominations pack with a remarkable three nominations in the categories Entertainment Radio Presenter of the Year, Entertainment TV Producer of the Year and Podcast Presenter of the Year. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Makhadzi, DJ Zinhle and Zee Nxumalo are also on the list. Mabotja will be up against the likes of Lootluv, Dineo Lusenga and "The Real Housewives of Durban" reality star, Laconco in respective categories. Speaking on her triple nomination, Mabotja said: "It's such a blessing to be recognised across the different mediums I pour my heart into. Each space allows me to connect with people in a unique way, and I'm so grateful to every listener, viewer, subscriber, follower and voter who has supported my journey and continually shares love for my work." Joining Mabotja in the fray is singer Makhadzi, who has received two nominations for her electrifying hit "Number 1" vying for both Dance Artist of the Year and Artist of the Year. Makhadzi. Image: Instagram The competition is fierce, especially in the coveted DJ of the Year category, where DJ Zinhle will face off against notable figures such as Lerato Kganyago, Lamiez Holworthy, Kele Megano and DJ Tshepi. The emerging talents, including newcomers like Nonny Muji, Ayarhkay, Lani M and Mega Snowflake, add another layer of excitement to this year's nominations. Hloni Modise Matau, CEO of the Basadi in Music Awards, expressed her excitement for this year's event: "These awards celebrate female excellence in the music industry. While progress has been made, there is still work to be done. Big things happen when women support each other. This is for all queens with big dreams who may be hesitant, I want them to see that achieving greatness is possible." As anticipation builds for this extraordinary celebration of feminine excellence, the Basadi in Music Awards continue to forge pathways for recognition and empowerment, proving that the contributions of women in entertainment are both vital and transformative. The 2025 Basadi in Music Awards will be held on August 1 and 2 at the Joburg Theatre.