Sundowners are a favourite pastime in Cape Town and the warm South African summers and late sunsets provide both locals and tourists alike, with the perfect opportunity to take in the spectacular views of the city and unwind from the stresses of the day.
The venue though, makes all the difference and whether it’s a casual drink after work or a more indulgent weekend escape, there are some places in the Mother City that are perfectly suited to seeing out those last hours of daylight in style.
Here are the 10 Best Places to Have Sundowners in Cape Town
Chapmans Peak Hotel, Hout Bay
Located on the foot of the famous mountain pass, Chapman’s Peak Hotel has been around since the late 19th century and has an expansive terrace that is famed for its unhindered views of Hout Bay beach and their exceptional fried calamari.
Café Caprice, Camps Bay
Offering stunning views of the beach and an unrivaled ambience, Café Caprice on Camps Bay’s main road is a hotspot of Cape Town’s party scene and is well known for its Sunday evening parties in summer and its cosmopolitan patrons.
The Grand Café & Beach, Granger Bay
The Grand Café & Beach in Granger Bay is situated on its own private beach close to the V&A Waterfront and lives up to its name with the bar and restaurant right on the sand. A perfect place to take in the summer sun, the Grand also hosts corporate events and conferences.
Rockpool, Sea Point
Formerly known as La Vie, Rockpool provides a welcoming and laidback atmosphere on the bustling Beach Road in Sea Point. Their simple menu and wide selection of wines make it popular with the locals and it provides a convenient pit stop for those enjoying a stroll on the promenade.
12 Apostles Hotel, Camps Bay
The iconic Leopard Bar at the 12 Apostles Hotel is a perfect place to watch the sunset and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Camps Bay and Lion’s Head. Located roughly halfway on the coastal road between Camps Bay and Hout Bay, the five star hotel and spar is also a favourite honeymoon destination.
Cape to Cuba, Kalk Bay
The rustic décor and authentic Cuban cuisine offers visitors to Cape to Cuba an experience unlike any other on this list. Located in Kalk Bay, Cape to Cuba transports its patrons on an imaginary trip to the Cuban capital Havana and offers a glimpse into the country’s fascinating history. It’s also popular with those arriving on luxury train rides at the nearby Kalk Bay train station.
Shimmy Beach Club, V&A Waterfront
The quintessential summer spot, Shimmy Beach hosts corporate events, conferences and summer parties and their restaurant bar by the pool is an excellent spot to take in the scenes as they wind down the day with some tropical music and cocktails.
Tjing Tjing, Cape Town
Tjing Tjing is a trendy rooftop bar located just off Long Street in Cape Town. Famous for its cocktails and its tapas, this hidden gem is built in an almost 200 year old house but its modern interior gives the place a very refined feel and it offers some breathtaking views of the CBD.
The Blue Peter, Bloubergstrand
Situated right on Blouberg’s main beach, the Blue Peter has among the best views of Table Mountain in Cape Town and it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a more relaxed setting and a good bite to eat.
The Bungalow, Clifton
Bungalow overlooks the famous Clifton beach and offers visitors brilliant views of the coastline and 12 apostles. Large lounges, long tables, wooden decks and a snow white exterior give the place a very Mediterranean vibe and they serve some great sushi.
