The Waterfront in Summer: A Curated Guide by Newmark

If one place could encapsulate South African summers, it would be the V&A Waterfront. The iconic Cape Town attraction has aptly adopted the slogan ‘Summer Lives Here’, which promises vibrant energy, cool Atlantic breezes, and endless discovery.

Summer Events: Music, Movies & Magic

There is never a shortage of entertainment at the V&A. This season, the "Take the Stage" series brings fresh talent to the amphitheatre, while several flagship events anchor the calendar:

• The Galileo Open Air Cinema: Enjoy a movie under the stars at Battery Park, a summer staple for couples and families alike.
• Naledi Lights: Experience the magic of the Naledi light installation, illuminating the pier with South African storytelling.
• Jazzathon & Take the Stage: Immerse yourself in the sounds of the city with live performances showcasing the best of local jazz and emerging talent.
• Silo Concerts & Music Fairs: From the Acoustic Sunset (2 Jan) featuring Wendy Oldfield to the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra (6 Feb), the Silo District remains the hub for sophisticated sounds.

Adventure for All Ages

The V&A Waterfront is a playground for children and the young at heart.

• Two Oceans Aquarium: A must-visit to see ragged-tooth sharks, penguins, and the mesmerising kelp forest.
• Kids Mini Explorers Club: Pick up a Kids Passport at the information desk. It’s the perfect way for little ones to collect stamps across the precinct and earn rewards.
• The Cape Wheel: Take a flight on the iconic wheel for a 360-degree view of the city skyline and Table Mountain.
• Makers Summer Sessions, Makers Landing: Cooking workshops for kids with local food creatives every other Saturday until 11 January 2026
• The Waterfront Duck, Silo District: A family-friendly land and water tour aboard ‘Bella’, a bus-and-boat vessel in one. Discover Cape Town’s history, ecology and marine life from a unique perspective with knowledgeable guides.
• HintHunt and be.Up Park Pop Up: For those seeking indoor thrills, try the escape rooms at HintHunt or the play-park action at the Watershed.
• Waterfront Boat Cruise: Quay 5: Park at Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre Garage and take a 30/60 bay tour or 90m sunset cruise on a luxury catamaran or harbour yacht.

Where To Shop and Eat

• GINJA: Dine at the water’s edge with views of Table Mountain and the freshest seafood expertly prepared by world-class chefs. The restaurant also serves Sunday brunch and delectable desserts.
• Native Coffee Roasters: An atmospheric coffee lounge at The Victoria & Alfred hotel, offering premium roasted coffee with African-sourced coffee beans, savoury bites, pastries and more.
• Terrarium: Experience sustainable, gourmet dining at The Queen Victoria Hotel’s award-winning Terrarium. Each meal is mindfully curated with farm-to-table ethical practices to bring out the best flavours, everything from meat to simple side dishes and wines. Enjoy music and art while you dine.

Where to Stay for Convenient V&A Access

• The Queen Victoria Hotel: Distinguished luxury accommodation fit for royalty at the V&A Waterfront with spa treatments, concierge and accessible facilities. Infants under two receive a complimentary stay in a cot, and child-minding services are available at a separate cost.
• The Victoria & Alfred Hotel: An icon of the waterfront’s historical legacy, The Victoria & Alfred Hotel is a serene oasis, providing first-class views of the harbour and Table Mountain. The Piazza and Mountain-facing rooms have interconnecting rooms, ideal for families travelling with children.
• The Dock House Boutique Hotel: Ideal for a private escape and furnished with everything you need, including a pool, spa, private library and gym. Childminding and cots are available on request. The V&A Waterfront is within walking distance.

You don’t have to look too far for summer fun and leisure. Book with Newmark Hotels to enjoy the V&A Waterfront in style in 2026.

Q: Which events are scheduled for the Silo District in early 2026?

A: The two events are the free open-air Silo Concerts – Acoustic Sunset on 2 January and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra on 6 February.

Q: Do any V&A Waterfront restaurants focus on sustainable dining?

A: Terrarium at The Queen Victoria Hotel is the award-winning restaurant known for sustainable, gourmet dining and mindfully curated meals with farm-to-table ethical practices.

Q: Does the Queen Victoria Hotel cater to children?

A: Infants under two receive a complimentary stay in a cot, and child-minding services are available at a separate cost.