In a city known for its weather and its views, a prime seat at a rooftop bar quickly becomes hot property – fortunately, Cape Town has some knockouts to choose from.
While night owls might be looking for a spot to party way into the evening, others are after a chilled out destination to soak up the sun, cocktail in hand. Catering for all wants and needs, Cape Town’s top bars deftly pivot from relaxed daytime hangout to coveted party destination.
Here are Elite Traveler‘s best rooftop bars in Cape Town.
[See also: The Best Hotels in Cape Town]
Cloud 9
Situated at the very top of a boutique hotel of the same name, Cloud 9 is a sanctuary from the bustling city that offers unobstructed 360-degree views of Table Mountain and the Lion’s Head. The plunge pool is certainly one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city so grab a cocktail and snap a shot worthy of your next profile picture. The bar specializes in sourdough pizzas that would not look out of place on the backstreets of Naples.
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The Silo Rooftop
The Silo is widely considered to be one of Cape Town’s best luxury hotels and that is in no small part down to the spectacular Silo Rooftop Terrace, which offers guests an al fresco experience with panoramic views across the V&A Waterfront and across to Table Mountain.
Food is served at The Silo Rooftop from midday daily; order fresh oysters and signature bao buns or go all out with a sharing platter. For drinks, there’s an extensive wine list or choose from the cocktail menu which twists the classics. This is one of the most coveted spots in town, so reservations are highly recommended. There is a rooftop pool, but that’s only open to hotel guests.
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[See also: Cape Grace: Freshly Renovated, Still Cape Town’s Charm Shines]
Skybar at The Grey
The Grey is one of the finest boutique hotels in the city and its exclusivity is epitomized by its charming Skybar. Located close to the Cape Quarter center, the intimate deck is the perfect place to end a long day of shopping. Grab a cocktail from the bar and watch the sunset to the sounds of the busy streets below. There is also a lap pool for guests who wish to cool off on hotter days. It’s walk in only (first come; first serve) so arrive early for the best spot.
Baptiste at The Marly
Over in Camps Bay, The Marly Hotel’s rooftop bar Baptiste beckons with its laidback vibe and stunning ocean views. The food menu is all about casual burgers and salads, and sharing plates, while the cocktail list is full of classic favorites. If you’re celebrating, there’s a great list of local fizz, too.
Again, while reservations to the bar are available to all (if very hard to come by), the pool is only open to hotel guests.
