Relax in colourful beach huts and stroll along the Historic Mile boulevard for a glimpse into Cape Town’s colonial origins.

Muizenberg is a suburban beach area with iconic surfing spots and picturesque bird-watching reserves. The district played a major role in Cape Town’s past and contains many buildings of historic importance.

Bring your family to enjoy the cheerful atmosphere among the colourful Victorian bathing boxes of Muizenberg Beach. Let the kids clamber over the playground’s red, yellow and blue frames. The bay area also contains a mini-golf complex and a swimming pool with water slides.

The beach has a gentle incline, sheltering rocks and dramatic scenery. Note that the water is warmer here than on the Atlantic Coast. The fairly placid waves at Surfer’s Corner provide excellent conditions for beginners.

Visit the charming Rhodes’ Cottage Museum overlooking the ocean in the shadow of the Muizenberg Mountains in southwestern Muizenberg. Peruse the museum dedicated to British businessman and imperialist Cecil Rhodes, who spent the final years of his life in this house. Enjoy a cup of tea and chat with the volunteers who operate the museum funded by donations.

The cottage is part of the “Historical Mile” that includes the Het Posthuys, which is Dutch for Post Office. Find out about early colonial history in this site that served as a lookout post for the Dutch. Hear how the building was also used as a naval storage facility and a pub, before being turned into a museum.

Watch a performance at the nearby Masque Theatre, which puts on live musicals, dramas, dances and film shows.

The scenic highlight of this region is the Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve. Bring binoculars to spy the flamingoes and pelicans among other birds in this 5,000-acre (2,000-hectare) park. Travel northeast to the False Bay Nature Reserve, with a bird sanctuary, viewing towers and museum.

Muizenberg overlooks False Bay in the southern suburbs of Cape Town. Drive south for 15 miles (24 kilometres) or take the train to the Muizenberg Railway Station near the coast. Nearby districts include St. James, Kalk BayOpens in a new window and Fish HoekOpens in a new window.