Walk the Kleinmond lagoon boardwalk at dawn or dusk to spot the feral horses grazing on the marshland. They are wild and keep their distance but photogenic against the mountain backdrop.
The Kogelberg Hiking Trail (8km circular) starts 10 minutes from town. Permit R50. The fynbos is dense, the waterfalls are seasonal (best Jun-Oct), and you are unlikely to see another person.
Where the Palmiet River meets the sea, a natural pool forms between rocks. The river side is warm, the ocean side is bracing. Locals swim here year-round. No facilities -- just bring a towel and shoes for the rocks.
Two-bedroom stone cottage on the edge of the Kogelberg Reserve. Self-catering with a fully equipped kitchen, braai area, and mountain views from the stoep. Sleeps 4. The hiking trail starts 500m from the front door. No TV, no WiFi -- by design. From R1,200/night (peak R1,800).
Three-bedroom beach house 200m from the sand. Open-plan living area with sea views, full kitchen, enclosed garden with braai. Sleeps 6. Walking distance to the lagoon, the beach, and the two restaurants in town. WiFi included. From R1,500/night (peak R2,200). Minimum 2-night stay.
Four self-catering chalets set along the Palmiet River. Each sleeps 2-4 with a private deck over the water. Kayaks available for guests (free). The river is swimmable in summer. Bird life is extraordinary -- kingfishers and fish eagles are regulars. From R950/night (peak R1,400). No children under 12.