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We've compiled the best of the best in V&A Waterfront - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
This small museum attached to the Shimansky boutique tells the fascinating history of the little stones that played such a big role in South Africa's history. The tour (25–40 minutes) covers a time line of 3 billion years, mostly focusing on how the local industry developed in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and ending in a showroom where polishers are busy "brillianteering" stones that are unsurprisingly available for purchase.
A bit of vibey Ibiza in laid-back Cape Town, this beach club is regarded as a fun and trendy place to hang out, and it's even family-friendly, with a children's play area. You can dine in the oceanfront restaurant, spend a day on the private (man-made) beach, or swim in the pool. At night DJs come on board for a livelier party atmosphere. On days when it's just too hot or raining, there's a covered pool and deck area. The restaurant is busy and a reservations-only spot at night. It sits in an unlikely spot, between two fish-processing warehouses, but there's no odor. Admission to use the beach and facilities is free, but you are expected to buy food and drink.
San Marco Bistro offers a wide variety of options from sandwiches and salads to pasta, meat, and seafood entrées. Although it's expensive for locals, most visitors find it very affordable. There are hundreds of places to eat at the Waterfront but not many such alfresco locations that are really outdoors in such close proximity to the working harbor. It's a good place to refuel and people-watch while shopping—or waiting to tour one of the naval vessels that occasionally open their doors to the public.
