V&A Waterfront – Cape Town’s Iconic Harbour Destination

Introduction

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s most visited attractions — a vibrant destination where shopping, dining, culture, and entertainment meet. From world-class art galleries and luxury boutiques to historic landmarks and ocean adventures, the Waterfront offers something for everyone, all in one stunning harbourfront setting.

Things to Do at the V&A Waterfront

Art & Culture

• Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA)
  Explore over 100 galleries dedicated to cutting-edge African and Diaspora art inside a converted grain silo — the largest museum of its kind in Africa.

• The Silo District
  Stroll through this creative hub, home to boutique art galleries, stylish restaurants, and public installations celebrating African innovation and design.

• The Watershed
  Discover South African craftsmanship with more than 150 tenants showcasing over 365 local brands — from ceramics and textiles to fashion, furniture, and jewellery.

• Free Historical Walking Tour
  Pick up a map from the Visitor Information Centre and take a self-guided historical walk to uncover the Waterfront’s maritime history and the stories behind the working harbour.

Leisure & Lifestyle

• Dine with a View
  Enjoy fresh seafood, global cuisine, and South African specialties at waterside restaurants offering spectacular views of Table Mountain and the marina.

• Relax & Rejuvenate
  Indulge in a luxury spa treatment at one of the precinct’s wellness centres or unwind at a café overlooking the yachts.

• Shopping & Essentials
  With over 450 stores, the V&A Waterfront is a retail paradise. You’ll also find convenient on-site services like banking, pharmacies, foreign exchange, and travel desks.

• 🐠 Two Oceans Aquarium

  • Step into one of Cape Town’s most loved attractions — the Two Oceans Aquarium, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.

  • See more than 8,000 marine creatures, from turtles, rays, and jellyfish to sharks and vibrant reef fish.

  • Visit the Penguin Exhibit, explore the Kelp Forest, or dive into the massive I&J Ocean Exhibit — home to rays, turtles, and shoals of tropical fish.

  • Perfect for all ages, the aquarium blends education with wonder and is open daily from 09:30 to 18:00 (hours may vary seasonally).

  🎟️ Book tickets directly via the Two Oceans Aquarium website for schedules and special experiences like diving encounters.

Family & Fun

• Ride the Cape Wheel
  Enjoy panoramic views of Cape Town, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean — by day or illuminated by night.

• Jog or Stroll the Harbour Route
  Follow the signposted 2.5 km or 5 km routes for a refreshing jog or leisurely walk through the scenic precinct.

• Family-Friendly Attractions
  The Two Oceans Aquarium, Scratch Patch (gemstone fun), and the playgrounds along the promenade make the Waterfront a hit with children and adults alike.

• 🐠 Two Oceans Aquarium

  • Step into one of Cape Town’s most loved attractions — the Two Oceans Aquarium, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.

  • See more than 8,000 marine creatures, from turtles, rays, and jellyfish to sharks and vibrant reef fish.

  • Visit the Penguin Exhibit, explore the Kelp Forest, or dive into the massive I&J Ocean Exhibit — home to rays, turtles, and shoals of tropical fish.

  • Perfect for all ages, the aquarium blends education with wonder and is open daily from 09:30 to 18:00 (hours may vary seasonally).

  🎟️ Book tickets directly via the Two Oceans Aquarium website for schedules and special experiences like diving encounters.

🚁 Adventure & Experiences

• Helicopter Flights
  Take off on a chartered helicopter tour for unforgettable aerial views of Cape Town, Robben Island, and the Cape Peninsula.

• Sunset Cruises & Yacht Charters
  End your day with a romantic sunset sail or luxury catamaran cruise departing directly from the V&A Marina.

• Tavern of the Seas Audio Tour
  Download the free GPS audio guide, “Tavern of the Seas,” and explore the Waterfront’s history, culture, and architecture at your own pace.

Getting to the V&A Waterfront from Cape Town International Airport

• Head south and keep slightly left toward Airport Approach Road.

• Turn left onto Airport Approach Road and stay in the right lane.

• Merge onto the N2 highway via the ramp to Cape Town.

• Continue along the N2 (De Waal Drive / Nelson Mandela Boulevard).

• Turn right onto Walter Sisulu Avenue.

• At the roundabout, take the first exit onto Dock Road, which leads directly into the V&A Waterfront.

🕓 Estimated Travel Time: 20–25 minutes (depending on traffic).

Transport To and Around the V&A Waterfront

• 🚗 Parking – Multiple secure parking facilities are available across the precinct, with tariffs for short and long stays.

• 🚌 MyCiTi Bus – Cape Town’s rapid bus service stops at Breakwater Station, just steps from the Clock Tower and Silo District. Buses run every 10 minutes during weekday peak hours.

• 🚖 Taxis & Ride-hailing – Metered taxis, Uber, and Bolt are available at various pickup points around the Waterfront.

• 🚌 City Sightseeing Bus – The iconic Hop-On Hop-Off Bus operates 365 days a year, stopping at the V&A Waterfront. Choose between:

  • Red City Tour: Focused on Cape Town’s urban history and landmarks.

  • Blue Mini Peninsula Tour: A scenic route through the Atlantic Seaboard and surrounding suburbs.
    Tickets are available at the V&A Information Centre.

💡 Entry to the V&A Waterfront is free — you only pay for the attractions, dining, and experiences you choose to enjoy.

Dining at the V&A Waterfront

With more than 80 restaurants, cafés, and eateries, the V&A Waterfront serves every palate and occasion.

• Grab a quick coffee or snack between activities.

• Enjoy fresh seafood and fine dining at harbourside restaurants.

• Relax with cocktails at sunset while watching boats glide into the marina.

Top picks include:

• Baia Seafood Restaurant – Elegant dining with fresh local seafood.

• Quay Four Tavern – Classic Cape Town charm with live music and ocean views.

• Den Anker – Belgian-inspired dishes and beer pairings overlooking the harbour.

• Life Grand Café – Stylish brunches, cocktails, and fine dining in a historic setting.

Shopping at the V&A Waterfront

With over 450 stores, the V&A Waterfront is South Africa’s ultimate shopping destination — from global brands to unique local designers.

🛍️ Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre

The heart of the Waterfront, open daily from 09:00 to 21:00. Find everything from department stores and boutiques to cafés and high-end dining.

💎 The Alfred Mall & Pierhead

An elegant mix of jewellery stores, art galleries, and fashion boutiques. The nearby Pierhead district adds charm with brasseries and waterfront dining.

🕰️ The Clock Tower Centre

An iconic landmark that once served as the Port Captain’s office, now filled with art galleries, heritage exhibits, and souvenir shops.

🏙️ The Silo District

A blend of contemporary art, boutique shops, and gourmet cafés. Highlights include the Zeitz MOCAA, Silo Hotel, Granary Café, and Silo Spa, all centered around vibrant Silo Square.

🎨 The Watershed

Home to 150+ local artisans, the Watershed celebrates African creativity with handcrafted décor, jewellery, textiles, and fashion — the perfect place for one-of-a-kind gifts.

Final Word

The V&A Waterfront is far more than a shopping or dining destination — it’s the beating heart of Cape Town’s culture, creativity, and coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re here to sail at sunset, explore world-class art, or simply enjoy a meal with Table Mountain in view, the Waterfront captures the very essence of the Mother City.