Cape Town — Neighborhood Guide
De Waterkant is Cape Town's most stylish village — a hillside cluster of candy-coloured Cape Dutch cottages transformed into boutique hotels, design studios, and acclaimed restaurants.
Quick Answer
De Waterkant is Cape Town's most stylish village — a hillside cluster of candy-coloured Cape Dutch cottages transformed into boutique hotels, design studios, and acclaimed restaurants.
5 hotels reviewed · Price range: $$$, $$$$ · Last updated March 2026
About This Guide
Perched between the V&A Waterfront and the CBD, De Waterkant is Cape Town's creative quarter. The neighbourhood's cobbled lanes are lined with some of the city's most design-driven accommodation, and its proximity to both the Waterfront and the Cape Quarter makes it ideal for those who want style without sacrificing convenience.
Insider Tips
The Cape Quarter has excellent delis and restaurants right on your doorstep.
Walk up to the top of the village for panoramic harbour views.
Book accommodation early in peak season — De Waterkant boutiques sell out fast.
Our Picks
5 hotels · Updated February 2026
De Waterkant
Occupying the city's beautifully restored Old Reserve Bank building, the Taj Cape Town fuses heritage architecture with contemporary luxury at the edge of De Waterkant — ideal for business and leisure alike.
V&A Waterfront
Cape Town's original five-star harbour hotel remains one of its finest — nine floors of gracious rooms, panoramic mountain-and-marina views, and a spa that's among the best in Africa.
Camps Bay
A magnificent Edwardian villa on the Atlantic seaboard cliffs, Ellerman House blends Old World grandeur with one of South Africa's finest private art collections. Just 13 suites, impeccable service.
V&A Waterfront
Housed in the converted grain elevator above the Zeitz MOCAA museum, The Silo is Cape Town's most architecturally extraordinary hotel — 28 rooms, pillow-bulge windows, and the city's best rooftop bar.
V&A Waterfront
Africa's most celebrated urban resort occupies a private island in the V&A Waterfront marina, with unobstructed Table Mountain views, three pools, and the celebrated Nobu restaurant.
Keep Exploring
Common Questions
De Waterkant is a great choice for design-conscious travellers who want boutique character close to the V&A Waterfront. It's safe, walkable, and full of character.
Colourful Cape Dutch architecture, boutique design hotels, the Cape Quarter lifestyle centre, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
De Waterkant is walkable to the V&A Waterfront in about 15 minutes and a 25-minute Uber from the airport.
More Destinations
Prices and availability change daily. Lock in the best rate by booking early — most of our top picks offer free cancellation.
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