Mother’s Day is almost here—Sunday, 11 May, to be exact—and if you haven’t even thought about a gift yet, you’re not alone. But procrastination doesn’t mean you have to settle for something last-minute and lifeless.
At Men’s Health, we believe in showing up for the women who’ve always shown up for us—moms, grandmothers, aunts, stepmoms or anyone who’s played that role. That’s why we’ve rounded up 24 thoughtful, well-curated gifts that feel personal, practical and actually cool.
From books she won’t want to put down and beauty sleep essentials to activewear, fragrance, and gadgets she’ll genuinely love, we’ve covered all the bases. And yes, a few of these picks are still available in-store or come with instant digital delivery—perfect for those of us making moves at the eleventh hour. Mom deserves more than flowers (though we’ve included those too). This year, go beyond the basic and show her some real appreciation.
READ MORE: The Mother’s Day Gift Guide That Will Make You Son of the Year, Guaranteed
For the Mom Who Deserves to Recharge in Style
She’s always looking after everyone else—now it’s her turn. These gifts are all about slowing down, sipping up, and getting the kind of rest that feels as good as it looks.
Hydration, but make it iconic. This viral tumbler keeps drinks cold for hours, fits in a car cupholder, and comes in aesthetic colours she’ll love. Bonus: she’ll actually want to drink more water now.
Upgrade her bedtime with this silky sleep set, including a satin pillowcase, scrunchie and eye mask. It’s gentle on skin and hair and makes beauty sleep feel like actual luxury—because moms deserve more than just a nap.
A full year of wellness, strength, style and expert advice delivered to her door. Whether she’s into fitness, recipes, or a little motivational reading, Women’s Health is a gift that keeps on giving—month after month.
For the Mom Who Deserves Her Flowers (Literally)
You can’t go wrong with blooms on Mother’s Day. Whether she’s a fan of bold bouquets, delicate arrangements or thoughtful add-ons like candles and chocolates, these local go-tos make it easy to deliver beauty straight to her doorstep.
Petal & Post curates daily seasonal bouquets and delivers them same-day in Cape Town, Joburg and Durban. Each arrangement is wrapped with care and paired with a handwritten note—simple, stunning, and guaranteed to brighten her day.
The OG of flower delivery in South Africa, NetFlorist makes it easy to spoil your mom with everything from classic roses to custom gift boxes, cakes and spa sets—delivered nationwide, even last-minute. They’ve got your back.
Bloomable offers a wide range of artisan-crafted flower arrangements and unique local gifts. From lush roses to fynbos and handmade keepsakes, it’s a one-stop shop for a gift that feels personal, thoughtful and oh-so-pretty.
For the Mom Who’s Fed Everyone—Now It’s Her Turn
Skip the burnt toast and lukewarm tea this year. Treat your mom (or the woman who raised you) to a proper meal—whether it’s seafood feasting, fine-dining at home or a stylish night out with bold flavours.
For just R145, Ocean Basket’s Reel Love Platter delivers prawns, hake, calamari and all the trimmings. Launching 11 May, it’s the perfect way to say thank you—with lemon sauce instead of awkward hugs.
Tucked away in Noordhoek, Crofter’s Kitchen offers a fine-dining experience in chef Nicky Gibbs’s own home. With a daily menu inspired by her garden, it’s an unforgettable, intimate evening made for celebrating your mom in true style.
Hidden behind a bookcase, this vibey Cape Town speakeasy serves up Mexican and Peruvian plates in a rich, moody setting. Think guac, ceviche and great wine—ideal for moms who love food with flair and a little mystery.
For the Mom Who’s All About Modern Luxury
She’s sleek, smart and always ahead of the curve—so her gifts should be too. From fashion-forward tech to timeless fragrance, these elevated picks are for the mom who mixes innovation with impeccable taste.
A stylish smartwatch that goes way beyond step counting. The vívoactive 6 tracks heart rate, sleep, energy levels, and stress—all in real time. With built-in workouts and sleek design, it’s perfect for the wellness-loving mom on the move.
Bold, timeless and undeniably chic—these Burberry sunglasses are for the mom who owns every room she walks into. With a flattering oversized shape and signature Burberry detailing, they’ll instantly elevate her everyday look, no filter needed.
The world’s first tri-fold smartphone, the Huawei Mate XT unfolds into a massive OLED display for multitasking and entertainment. With pro-level cameras and sleek design, it’s the ultimate flex for the mom who loves cutting-edge tech.
For the Mom Who Loves to Escape Between the Pages
Whether she’s into cozy romance, dark comedy or messy mom drama, these books are a perfect excuse to put her feet up and tune the world out (even if it’s just for a few chapters). Gift her a great read that reminds her it’s okay to choose fiction over dishes—for today, at least.
Katy Brent is back with another hilariously cut-throat (literally) book that’s easy to read and will effortlessly excavate anyone in a deep reading rut (perfect for a busy mom). After serial killer Kitty Collins hangs up her weapons and commits to a low-crime life, a misogynistic male influencer spewing problematic content all over the internet threatens to bring her back from retirement… Just one last project couldn’t be so bad could it?
All the Other Mothers Hate Me by Sarah Harman
Meet monstrous mom Florence, a single mom with a failed early 00s girlband career, no money, no boyfriend and not much to fill her day besides reality tv reruns while her ten-year-old son Dylan is at school. That is until his rival goes missing on a school trip and she finds his backpack under her son’s bed. Witty, charming and delightfully filter-free, your mom will fall in love with Florence as she shows the depth of a mother’s love for their sons.
The Strawberry Patch Pancake House by Laurie Gilmore
There’s nothing better than diving into a small-town cozy romance to destress after a long day of work-/mom-life. This book has everything you love from a cheesy Christmas movie sans the Christmas; nosy townspeople, a chef unexpectedly thrust into being a single dad, a nanny set to help him and pancakes of course.
For the Mom Who Finds Her Peace in Movement
Whether she’s a seasoned yogi, a morning walker or just loves a good stretch in stylish gear, these wellness picks will help her move through Mother’s Day (and beyond) feeling strong, calm and comfortable.
This eco-friendly cork yoga mat comes with a matching strap and block—perfect for mindful moms who love to flow. Non-slip, beautifully designed, and easy to carry, it’ll elevate any home practice or studio session.
Supportive, sculpting and super comfy, these Nike biker shorts are ideal for workouts or just weekend lounging. The high waist offers a flattering fit, and they pair perfectly with oversized tees or a morning coffee run.
Lightweight yet weather-resistant, this stylish jacket is perfect for chilly morning walks or layering over gym gear. It’s breathable, flattering and gives “sporty chic” without trying too hard—because your mom deserves function and fashion.
For the Mom Who Leaves a Lasting Impression
Give her a scent as unforgettable as she is. Whether she’s into soft florals, fresh tea notes or something a little more rebellious, these fragrances are the perfect finishing touch for a woman who always shows up in style.
A soft yet radiant rose scent that feels like golden-hour light in a bottle. Acqua di Parma’s Luce Di Rosa blends Italian elegance with delicate floral warmth—perfect for moms who love luxury that lingers.
Fresh, clean and effortlessly elegant. White Tea Eau de Parfum wraps your mom in calming notes of white tea, musk and floral wood. It’s the kind of scent that makes everyday moments feel a little more graceful.
For the mom who rocks a leather jacket and red lip. This bold, creamy blend of jasmine, chestnut and sandalwood is rebellious, warm and unforgettable—just like her.
For the Mom Who Has Everything (and Just Wants Time Well Spent)
Skip the clutter and give her what she really wants: memorable moments, pampering or a bit of the wild. From game drives in Kruger to a self-care splurge or a stylish treat she picks herself, these experience-based gifts let her take the reins—because she’s earned it.
Give your mom a year of unforgettable adventures. The Wild Card offers unlimited access to top game parks and nature reserves across Southern Africa—perfect for the mom who’d rather be outdoors than anywhere else. Nature therapy guaranteed.
From massages to mani-pedis, a Sorbet gift card lets your mom indulge in some much-needed self-care. Whether she’s a regular or a newbie to pampering, she can book exactly what she needs—on her schedule.
Let her choose her own adventure in style. With a Chommies gift card, your mom can pick from luxe accessories and playful lifestyle goods—locally made with flair and fun. It’s a perfect pick for trend-savvy moms.
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