Exploring Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront: Where to Eat, Shop & Experience the Best of the City
- Feb 2
- 3 min read
The V&A Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s most visited destinations, offering breath-taking harbour views, top-tier shopping, incredible dining, and exciting experiences. Whether you’re here for a short stop or planning to spend a full day, the Waterfront delivers a mix of history, culture, and modern entertainment.

Getting to the V&A Waterfront
Located near the heart of Cape Town, the V&A Waterfront is easily accessible by taxi, rideshare services, or even the City Sightseeing bus. If you’re staying in the city centre, a short walk or hotel shuttle can also get you there.
Save with the Cape Town City Pass
If you're planning to visit multiple attractions, the Cape Town City Pass is a great way to save money while exploring the best of the city. It includes free entry to top experiences like the Zeitz MOCAA Museum, the Cape Wheel, boat cruises, the Two Oceans Aquarium, and even hop-on-hop-off bus tours.
💡 You can purchase your Cape Town City Pass online here: 👉 iziintle.co.za/cape-town-city-pass
Shopping at the V&A Waterfront: What’s Worth It?
The shopping scene at the Waterfront is a mix of international brands, local designers, and unique South African crafts. While you’ll find well-known stores like H&M, Zara, and Adidas, the real charm lies in the local boutiques and specialty stores that showcase South African talent.
🔹 For Authentic South African Souvenirs:
The Watershed – This vibrant indoor market is the place to shop for handmade crafts, African artwork, and locally designed fashion. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something unique and want to support local artisans.
Carrol Boyes – If you love homeware with a South African touch, Carrol Boyes offers beautifully designed cutlery, glassware, and gifts.
🔹 For High-End African Fashion:
Pichulik – Bold, contemporary jewelry inspired by African heritage.
Tshepo Jeans – A proudly South African denim brand with premium, locally made jeans.
🔹 For Food Lovers:
The V&A Food Market – A must-visit for travelers who want to try a bit of everything, from local biltong (South African dried meat) to gourmet coffee and international street food.
Wine Concepts – If you want to take home a bottle of South Africa’s finest wine, this store has an excellent selection.
Where to Eat: Special Restaurant Picks
The V&A Waterfront has something for every taste, but here are a few recommendations that go beyond the usual:
🍽️ For Seafood Lovers:
Baia Seafood Restaurant – A top choice for fresh seafood and ocean views. Their grilled prawns and Cape salmon are a must-try.
The Codfather Sushi & Seafood – A relaxed but high-quality seafood spot where you pick your fish, and they prepare it fresh.
🍽️ For Traditional South African Flavors:
Karibu – If you’re looking for an authentic South African dining experience, Karibu serves local favorites like bobotie, oxtail stew, and ostrich fillet.
🍽️ For a Stunning View & Atmosphere:
The Silo Rooftop – Located at the Zeitz MOCAA Museum, this is the best place for a sundowner with a breathtaking view of the city and Table Mountain.
Tashas at The Waterfront – A chic, stylish café with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, perfect for brunch.
Things to Do at the V&A Waterfront
Beyond shopping and dining, the Waterfront has plenty to explore:
✅ Visit Zeitz MOCAA Museum – A world-class museum dedicated to contemporary African art. (Included in the Cape Town City Pass!)
✅ Take a Boat Cruise – From harbor tours to sunset champagne cruises, the views of Table Mountain from the water are unforgettable. (Also included in the Cape Town City Pass!)
✅ Explore the Two Oceans Aquarium – Great for families or anyone curious about South Africa’s incredible marine life. (Covered by the Cape Town City Pass!)
✅ Ride the Cape Wheel – Get a panoramic view of Cape Town from this Ferris wheel. (Free with the Cape Town City Pass!)
Final iZi Picks & Recommendation
If you want to experience the V&A Waterfront like a local, don’t just stick to the main shopping mall. Take time to explore the Watershed, try a local seafood dish, and soak up the views with a glass of South African wine.
Would you like a custom itinerary for Cape Town,We can create a free itinerary for you—just let us know what kind of experience you’re looking for https://www.iziintle.co.za/freeitinerary
💡 Don’t forget to grab your Cape Town City Pass before your trip for the best savings on top attractions!
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