V&A Waterfront

Bright, breezy, and always buzzing - Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront blends its maritime past with modern energy. Street performers, sea breezes, and the sound of gulls mingle with the clink of wine glasses and harbour hum.

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History, Harbour Lights & Table Mountain Views at the V&A Waterfront

women on a catamaran just off V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Photo taken in Cape Town, South Africa

The V&A Waterfront in Cape Town is a popular area for shopping, restaurants, craft markets and the starting point for many boat cruises out into the bay. It was created from rehabilitated wharf-side sheds, and Victorian maritime buildings. Naturally it is the base for many popular hotels as well.

It’s become less quirkily South African and more ‘global’ in recent years. But the fact that it is still a working harbour sets the Cape Town V&A Waterfront apart from other urban restoration projects.

Seals, Sails & Shopping: Cape Town’s Favourite Playground

The V&A Waterfront is home to hundreds of shops, bars, and restaurants, ranging from global fashion brands to South African design studios, all within walking distance of your hotel. The Watershed Indoor Craft Studio  is a treasure trove of handmade art, jewellery, and textiles — the perfect spot for something uniquely local. Elsewhere there is an eclectic mix of eateries and open-air bistros.

It’s also the departure point for cruises into Table Bay including a 90-minute catamaran sundowner trip. Plus the unforgettable Robben Island ferry to this sombre island (allow about 3–4 hours). And for scenic helicopter flips over Cape Town’s dramatic coastline.

Weekends bring open-air music and the joyful buzz of street performers, while the ever-present scent of salt air keeps it all distinctly maritime.

 

And don’t be surprised to find a few whiskered locals lazing on the jetties. The Cape fur seals who’ve made the Waterfront their home now even have their own sunbathing platform between the piers!

 

A Living Harbour

V&A Waterfront at sunsetUnlike many urban waterfronts, the V&A harbour still works. Fishing boats, tugs, and cruise craft all share the basins with luxury yachts and leisure craft. That ongoing maritime life gives the V&A its soul — a place where luxury blends effortlessly with authenticity.

Fun fact: the name “V&A” stands for Queen Victoria and her son Prince Alfred, who laid the first stone of the harbour in 1860. (So not her beloved husband Albert)

 

Where to Stay in the Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront hotels range from well-priced  4-star hotels up to the most luxurious five-star names in Cape Town. Think The Silo, Cape Grace, One&Only Cape Town and the newly refurbished  Table Bay. All are within easy walking distance of the restaurants, shops, and marina — and many have direct views of the harbour or Table Mountain.

A small note of caution: some hotels outside the precinct like to borrow the Waterfront name. If you want the real thing, we’ll point you to those genuinely set within the V&A’s harbour basin.

Frequently Asked Questions about the V&A Waterfront:

V&A Waterfront yacht marinaHow long does it take to explore the V&A Waterfront?
Most visitors spend at least half a day here — it’s easy to combine shopping, a leisurely lunch, and a boat cruise or museum visit.

Is it family-friendly?
Yes, the V&A Waterfront is ideal for families. Children love the Cape Wheel, the Two Oceans Aquarium, and watching seals in the harbour.

Can I walk from the Waterfront to other parts of Cape Town?
Yes but… It’s about 20–25 minutes to the city centre on foot, but it’s not a particularly attractive walk. We recommend taking a short taxi ride instead.

 

Stay where the city meets the sea — explore the V&A Waterfront with Cedarberg Africa’s insider recommendations.

Why We Love It

  • The V&A Waterfront is one of South Africa’s most visited attractions - lively yet relaxed
  • Stunning backdrop of Table Mountain from the various quays and canals
  • Excellent shopping, dining, and alfresco street entertainment all in one place
  • Two Oceans Aquarium showcases the extraordinary marine life of Cape waters
  • Zeitz MOCAA modern art gallery offers the best modern art in the Southern Hemisphere
  • Dazzling array of high-quality crafts in the Watershed near the Aquarium
  • Spectacular 360 panoramic views of Cape Town from The Cape Wheel

Not sure where to take your kids in Cape Town?

Check out our Top 20 places to visit for kids & families in Cape Town Get our Free guide here
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Kate Bergh

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