Intro – How Cape Town Took Me by Surprise
I’ll be totally honest, Cape Town wasn’t always on my travel wishlist. When my partner first suggested going there for his 40th birthday, I wasn’t quite on the same page. “You really want to go to South Africa?” I asked, a little sceptical.
Like a lot of people, I’d seen the headlines – stories about crime and the country’s complicated political history. It didn’t exactly scream holiday. But thankfully, he convinced me. And from the moment we landed, those assumptions started to melt away. I quickly realised that Cape Town was about to surprise me in the best way possible.
I’ve now been lucky enough to visit twice. The first time was in June 2015 for my partner’s birthday, and the second at the end of 2017, arriving just in time for New Year’s Eve. Experiencing the city in both winter and summer gave me a broader sense of what Cape Town is all about. Different seasons, different areas, different vibes – and one result: Cape Town had completely stolen my heart.
Arrival and First Impressions of Cape Town
Cape Town sits on South Africa’s southwestern coast and is the country’s oldest city, often called the ‘Mother City’ because of its rich history and culture. Flying direct from the UK takes around 11 to 12 hours, and I can honestly say that on both occasions, the descent into Cape Town International Airport was one of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever experienced. Table Mountain emerged dramatically from the clouds, framed by rugged coastline and wide open views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The drive from the airport to the V&A Waterfront is about 20 minutes and offers an early glimpse into the city’s contrasts. We passed long stretches of corrugated iron shacks and informal settlements, a reminder of the inequalities that still exist after apartheid. On our second visit, I saw new brick homes taking shape, likely part of government housing projects, but the divide was still clear. I imagine even more has changed since then.
As we neared the centre and the more touristy areas, the scenery changed fast. We were greeted by the iconic Cape Town Stadium, the bustling V&A Waterfront, and those ever-present views of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. Impossible to ignore, in the best kind of way.
Where we stayed on each trip gave us a different feel for the city. Each spot had its own vibe, whether we were right on the waterfront, in the heart of the city, or unwinding along the coast in Camps Bay.
Where We Stayed: Three Hotels, Three Perspectives
Radisson Blu Waterfront (June 2015)
Our first base in Cape Town was the Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront in Granger Bay, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Town Stadium. It’s well located near both Sea Point and the V&A Waterfront. During our stay, the hotel offered a free shuttle to the V&A, which was handy since walking around after dark isn’t recommended.
We stayed in a standard double room that wasn’t sea-facing and had no balcony, but it was still spacious and comfortable. Cape Town is known for being windy, and being so close to the ocean, it was pretty breezy at times. Despite that, the setting was lovely and a great base for exploring the city.
Southern Sun Cape Town (December 2017)
We spent three nights at the Southern Sun Waterfront, arriving on New Year’s Eve which is the peak of South Africa’s summer. The festive atmosphere was still present, with the Christmas tree beautifully still displayed in the lobby (I of course couldn’t resist a photo).
The hotel is ideally located just outside the entrance to the V&A Waterfront, making it a convenient base for exploring Cape Town’s main attractions. Our standard double room was comfortable, well-equipped, and had everything we needed for our stay.
One of my personal highlights was sipping strawberry daiquiris by the outdoor pool on New Year’s Day, soaking up the sunshine instead of freezing back home in the UK.
The Bay Hotel, Camps Bay (January 2018)
Straight after our stay at the Southern Sun, we moved to The Bay Hotel in Camps Bay, about a 15-minute drive from the V&A Waterfront. This beachfront hotel offers a touch of luxury with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Twelve Apostles mountains.
We stayed four nights in a comfortable double room (not sea facing, but still lovely) on a bed-and-breakfast basis. Each morning, breakfast was served in the hotel’s Tides restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over Camps Bay’s beachfront.
With multiple pools, a spa, and easy access to the area’s vibrant beachfront cafés, it was the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
The hotel even has its own ‘Wall of Fame’, showcasing celebrities who’ve stayed there. One morning, we even spotted rugby legend Sean Fitzpatrick a few tables away having his breakfast. If it’s good enough for an All Blacks great, it’s good enough for us.
When to Go: Winter vs. Summer in Cape Town
Visiting Cape Town in June meant experiencing its winter months. The weather was slightly cooler but mild, usually averaging around 16°C during daytime, and while layers were essential, there was still plenty of sunshine. Winter brought fewer crowds, making it easier to explore iconic sights like Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula without the usual hustle and bustle. It’s also the best time of year to spot Great White Sharks, perfect if you’re up for a bit of an adrenaline rush. Plus, cooler temperatures and less vegetation make it a great time for a safari at Kruger National Park if you are planning on extending your holiday.
December 2017 and January 2018 was a completely different experience. Arriving on New Year’s Eve, the city was buzzing with energy. The long summer days were perfect for beach visits, Winelands tours, and chilled evenings soaking up the vibe at waterfront bars. Summer is peak season, so it’s busier and more expensive. The sunshine, though, was a welcome change for someone coming from the UK.
One unforgettable highlight was waking up on New Year’s Day to brilliant blue skies, and catching the Cape Town Street Parade, known as Tweede Nuwe Jaar (“Second New Year”). This vibrant celebration, traditionally held on January 2nd, dates back to the 19th century and features thousands of performers in bright costumes dancing and playing music through the streets. It’s colourful, musical, and utterly joyful. A true cultural highlight. (Keep in mind that parade dates can shift slightly, so it’s worth checking ahead.)
So, When Should You Go?
Honestly, both seasons have something unique to offer:
Winter: Quieter, slightly cheaper, ideal for sightseeing, shark encounters and safaris
Summer: Lively, sun-soaked, perfect for beach days, exploring the winelands, and soaking in Cape Town’s vibrant culture
Personally, as a lover of sunshine, I preferred the warmth and energy of summer. But if you’re after a quieter, more reflective adventure or want to tick off bucket-list experiences like shark diving or a Big Five safari, winter may be just the time for you.
Either way, Cape Town delivers year-round.
Cape Town Highlights and Recommendations
Whether you go in summer or winter, Cape Town is guaranteed to have something special to offer. These are some of my personal highlights from past visits – things I loved, would happily recommend, and hope you’ll enjoy too.
Full Day Cape Point Tour
We booked a small group, full-day Cape Peninsula tour, which was a brilliant way to take in many of the Cape’s highlights in just one day. After being picked up from our hotel, we had a fantastic time exploring the area, including stops at Chapman’s Peak Drive, Boulders Beach (where we saw the penguins!), and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve.
If you’re short on time or just want a solid overview of the Cape Peninsula, I’d definitely recommend a tour like this. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a convenient and comprehensive way to experience one of the most scenic parts of South Africa.
Shark Cage Diving
For my partner’s 40th, I booked a shark cage diving trip with Shark Explorers, who operate out of Simon’s Town. I had every intention of getting in the cage myself until I realised just how cold the water was and decided to stay on the boat. Even so, it was a brilliant experience and I had a great view of the sharks breaching out of the water after a decoy seal nicknamed Frank. My partner, on the other hand, was far braver and loved every minute in the cage. It’s lowered over the side of the boat and partially submerged, and when a shark is spotted, the crew gives you the signal to duck underwater as they go past. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker, or fancy something a bit different, I’d definitely recommend this experience. Winter, which runs from around May to August, is actually one of the best times to go, with higher chances of sightings.
Township Tour
On a personal level, I had mixed feelings about booking a township tour. These are real communities where many people live, and it felt morally wrong at times to be having a tour of someone else’s hardships and misfortune. That said, many of these tours are supported by the communities themselves, as they provide local jobs and contribute to community projects. Our guide lived in the township, which added an authentic and personal perspective to the experience. We booked with AWOL Tours, who focus on more ethical experiences. Although the standard tour is by bike, we chose to walk instead. Overall, it was an honest and eye-opening experience which gave me a clearer understanding of the vast wealth divide in South Africa and helped put things into perspective – something I think is important for anyone visiting to appreciate.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
If you’re not hiring a car, the hop-on hop-off bus is an easy, fuss-free way to get around. It covers all the main sights – Table Mountain, Camps Bay, Kirstenbosch Gardens, the Waterfront and lets you explore at your own pace. There’s also audio commentary to give you some extra context as you go. Definitely worth considering, especially if it’s your first visit.
Winelands
For any wine lovers, South Africa will not fail to disappoint as there’s no shortage of beautiful vineyards and wine tasting experiences to enjoy. We visited Asara Wine Estate, Spier Wine Farm and Neethlingshof (one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates), all located near Stellenbosch, where you’ll also find plenty of charming wine manors if you fancy an overnight stay. I haven’t made it to Franschhoek yet, but the wine tram there is definitely on my list for next time.
Robben Island Half Day Tour
If you’re interested in South Africa’s history, the Robben Island tour is a must. The trip starts with a ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront, followed by a guided tour of the island and the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. It’s both fascinating and sobering, and having a former prisoner as our guide added a powerful, personal perspective. It’s not a ‘light’ experience, but it gives you a deeper understanding of the country’s past and just how far it’s come.
Sundowner Spots and Nightlife
If you fancy a sundowner with stunning ocean views, I’d highly recommend visiting the Leopard Bar at The Twelve Apostles Hotel. Just ensure you book ahead to guarantee a reservation.
Cafe Caprice in Camps Bay is a lovely little place for a few evening cocktails offering a relaxed vibe and beachfront location.
The V&A Waterfront is also a great option in the evenings. While it’s one of the city’s main tourist hubs, it offers a beautiful setting with harbour views and plenty of great restaurants and bars to choose from. Whether you’re after a meal, a bit of live music, or just a good glass of South African wine, it’s an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
For more of a lively vibe, Long Street has a real buzz, with a mix of bars, restaurants, and clubs. Just keep your wits about you, especially after dark.
Final Thoughts: Why I’ll Keep Coming Back
Cape Town truly is a city that stays with you, and even writing about it is making me want to book another trip. Next time, it will most definitely be during peak whale-watching season (August to November).
I hope my story helps inspire you to visit (or revisit) and discover your own version of this incredible place.
Follow My Journey
This is my first post as I start sharing my travel stories more publicly, and I’d love to build a little community here. If you enjoyed reading, feel free to subscribe or connect. I’ll be sharing more trips, honest reflections, and destination ideas soon.
P.S. Planning a trip to the Cape Peninsula? I’ll be sharing a suggested one-day itinerary soon, including top stops and optional tour links to help you make the most of your visit.
All views are my own, based on two self-funded trips to Cape Town in 2015 and 2017.
Roaming with a Redhead 