Cape Town, South Africa
Stay by area: our top hotel picks in V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Where to stay in the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront might be the city’s most photographed precinct, but its hotel scene is more than just postcard views. Behind the glamour of yacht basins and bustling quays lies a surprisingly diverse pocket of stays – where colonial-era elegance is enhanced with contemporary African design. This is where you check in to sip champagne as the sun hits Table Mountain just so or wake to the clang of boat masts and the scent of sea air drifting through sash windows. Whether you’re after full-throttle luxury or low-key exclusivity, the V&A Waterfront’s compact sprawl makes it easy to stay central while feeling worlds away from the city’s busier rhythms. We’ve picked stays that each show a different side of this iconic neighbourhood – and promise much more than just location.
Top photography courtesy of Cape Grace
Overview: the best hotels in V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
01
One & Only
Built on two private islands in the marina, One & Only Cape Town is the only urban resort of its kind in the city. The main hotel building, Marina Rise, houses most rooms and public spaces, including Vista Bar & Lounge and the wine loft with over 5,000 bottles. Rooms are among the largest in Cape Town, starting at 63 square metres and all come with private terraces or balconies. Across a bridge, the Island Rooms and Suites offer more seclusion, alongside a dedicated spa and wellness island. Interiors are contemporary with African design elements like hand-woven baskets, textured stone and carved timber. The hotel is home to Africa’s first Nobu Restaurant and there’s also Isola for poolside dining.
One & Only
Dock Rd
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of One & Only
02
The Silo Hotel
Set atop the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa at the V&A Waterfront, The Silo Hotel opened in August 2017 after Heatherwick Studio transformed a 1924 grain elevator into a 28‑room, nine‑storey landmark. This guest-exclusive rooftop terrace features a heated infinity pool enclosed by glass walls, offering uninterrupted views of Table Mountain, Robben Island and the V&A Waterfront. As the sun starts to set, move up to the rooftop for some of the best views in town. The Kitima Bar sits under a retractable pergola, serving poke bowls, Baja-style tacos and a selection of Western Cape wines. Raw concrete columns and polished teak decking recall the building’s industrial past, while minimal sun lounges maintain clear lines of sight.
Read the full article on The Silo Hotel.
The Silo Hotel
Silo Square
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of The Silo Hotel
03
Cape Grace
After a full redesign and rebranding in 2024, Cape Grace has re-emerged as one of the Waterfront’s most compelling stays. The hotel’s dockside location remains unchanged – moored between the working harbour and a private marina – but the interiors have shifted from classic European to contemporary African. Expect custom-made South African furniture, natural textures and a softer, more intimate atmosphere. The new Grace Bar & Lounge features seasonal menus with Cape botanicals and the restaurant focuses on refined South African cuisine. A small spa draws on indigenous wellness traditions and a curated scent made with local fynbos carries through the public spaces.
Cape Grace
W Quay Rd
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Cape Grace
04
The Manor House at the Queen Victoria Hotel
Hidden just steps behind the grand Queen Victoria Hotel, The Manor House at the Queen Victoria Hotel is an intimate four-suite residence that feels like your private villa within the waterfront. It’s adults-only, discreet and designed for guests wanting privacy with full access to five-star amenities. Each suite spans over 60 square metres and includes a lounge area, Juliet balcony or terrace and spacious bathrooms finished in marble. Interiors are pared-back and calming – monochrome artwork, plush textures and gold-accented details. Service is highly personalised, with 24-hour butler access, private in-room check-in and daily canapés delivered to your door. You can enjoy breakfast in your suite or at the Dash Restaurant. In the mood for some wellness and relaxation? You also have access to Queen Victoria Hotel’s gym and spa.
The Manor House at the Queen Victoria Hotel
5 Portswood Rd
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of The Manor House at the Queen Victoria Hotel
05
Victoria & Alfred Hotel
One of the Waterfront’s originals, the Victoria & Alfred Hotel occupies a prime corner of the harbour with front-row views of the working docks and Table Mountain. Housed in a 1904 heritage building, it still holds onto that classic industrial-meets-nautical character, with high ceilings, timber beams and a sense of old-world charm. Rooms are straightforward but stylish, with Juliet balconies or big warehouse-style windows depending on the wing. The hotel’s Ginja restaurant spills out onto a sun-drenched terrace – trust us, this is where you want to enjoy brunch or sunset drinks. The location is unbeatable – step outside and you’re moments away from the best restaurants, shopping and attractions the waterfront has to offer.
Victoria & Alfred Hotel
Dock Rd
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Victoria & Alfred Hotel
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