The Seven Best Boutique Hotels in Cape Town

The City of Cape Town has been voted one of the best cities in the world for seven consecutive years—and when you visit, it’s easy to see why.

It offers everything from breathtaking natural attractions to man-made local favorites, with something that everyone will enjoy.

Exploring everything the city has to offer starts with booking the perfect accommodation. 

Whether you’re an adventure-seeker who wants to be close to the ocean and mountain, or a foodie wanting to explore inner-city hotspots, Cape Town has various top-rated boutique hotels close to popular tourist destinations and experiences that will make your stay memorable.

Not only are these hotels ideally located, but because they’re smaller, they can offer guests a personalized experience they won’t find anywhere else. But how do you know which one to pick?

We’ve compiled a list of the seven best boutique hotels in Cape Town to help you decide.

1. Camissa House

📍Close to: De Waal Park, Table Mountain hiking trails, and the V&A Waterfront. ✅Perfect for: A luxury home-style retreat for couples, families, and groups of friends. ✨Hotel style: Romantic and homely.

 

🔍 Where?

Camissa House—meaning ‘place of sweet water’—is a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion located in the historic Oranjezicht precinct of Cape Town.

It’s one of the original Dutch Settler houses which served as a base for the pioneers who would turn Cape Town into the vibrant harbor city it is today.

🏨 What to expect?

Since its restoration, Camissa House has been offering guests a sophisticated and elegant stay with luxurious rooms decorated to reflect the city’s rich cultural history.

The hotel’s mission is to make guests feel welcome from the moment they arrive, making this a great option for people looking for a ‘home away from home’.

Although Camissa House is family-friendly, it’s not recommended for people traveling with very young children—the space prides itself on the tranquil atmosphere and also doesn’t offer any child-friendly activities. 

One of the highlights of staying at Camissa House is its prime location close to Cape Town’s city center, creating the perfect base to explore the city from. 

📍 On-site activities

• During your stay, you’ll have access to a rooftop bar that offers scenic views of the city and Table Mountain, as well as a heated swimming pool, library, and fitness center.
• Access to an open-plan kitchen where guests can also help themselves to drinks.
• Make use of the complimentary 24-hour butler service to provide you with anything you may need.
• Freshly prepared breakfast available daily.
• Enjoy the hotel’s high tea, offered every afternoon.

🗺️ Explore the area 

• Visit popular landmarks like the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain, located close by.
• The hotel is also close to places like the District Six Museum, where knowledgeable tour guides can teach visitors more about the political history of South Africa.
• Visit the local Iziko Museum, which houses over 1.5 million curated artifacts, and take a stroll in the Company’s Gardens where the museum is located, afterward.
• Ideally located minutes away from the bustling Kloof and Bree Street neighborhoods where locals often enjoy all that Cape Town’s culinary scene offers.
• Many upmarket bars and restaurants surround the neighborhood where the hotel is located. 
• Visit the local favorite Oranjezicht Weekend Market next to the V&A Waterfront and indulge in delicious foods, sweet treats, and handmade crafts.
• Hike the historic Washerwomen Trail—the oldest route on the slopes of Table Mountain—where you’ll learn about spice merchants, castaways, and haunted ruins.
• Camissa House offers transportation in addition to its concierge services, with drivers able to take you to any of the close-by restaurants and tourist attractions.

🛏️ The small details

• Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Access to concierge services for the duration of your stay
• Shared lounge and rooftop terrace
• Private parking
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Daily housekeeping and laundry services
• Airport shuttle service available
• Nonsmoking

2. The Marly Boutique Hotel

📍Close to: Camps Bay beach and Kasteelpoort hiking trail. ✅Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners, and families who are looking for the perfect coastal vacation on one of the most famous beach strips in the world. ✨Hotel style: Upmarket and funky.

 

🔍 Where?

The Marly Boutique Hotel—named after a wrecked ship from the 1890s—is a beachfront accommodation option in the lively, glamorous, yet laid-back Camps Bay area.

Its prime location allows you to fully immerse yourself in Cape Town’s lively culinary and party scene.

🏨 What to expect?

The hotel has an upmarket and stylish atmosphere, and is considered one of the funkiest beach accommodation options.

Visitors can choose between rooms with 180-degree mountain or ocean views that all feature modern design elements.

Many couples choose the Marly as their honeymoon destination or romantic high-end getaway.

Families are also welcome at The Marly and can stay in interconnected rooms with flexible sleeping options, board games, and books to keep the kids busy.

📍 Things to do at The Marly 

• Relax next to the rooftop pool while enjoying refreshing cocktails and light meals from the bar. You’ll also love the wrap-around views of Camps Bay beach, Lion’s Head, and the Twelve Apostles. 
• Spend the day pampering yourself at the hotel’s in-house spa, which features a variety of luxurious treatments. 
• Visit the hotel’s restaurant, Umi, which serves a delicious selection of locally-sourced sushi, seafood, and other Japanese-inspired dishes.

🗺️ Explore the area 

• Make use of the beach butler service, where hotel staff will set up towels, umbrellas, and loungers for you to enjoy the iconic Camp’s Bay beach.
• Many popular restaurants and bars are just a few minutes away. Our favorites include the stylish Surf Shack or luxurious Chinchilla restaurants.
• Camp’s Bay is well-known for its nightlife and various upmarket clubs and bars are close to the hotel — we recommend the vibey Dizzy’s Café or upmarket Café Caprice.
• Enjoy pre-arranged outdoor activities including mountain biking, paragliding, and hiking. We recommend the Pipe Track or a local favorite, Lion’s Head Trail. 
• Close to other tourist attractions like Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront.

🛏️ The details

• Spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms
• Private balconies
• Nespresso coffee machine and refreshment bar in each room
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• 24-hour room service
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Free parking
• Fitness center on-site
• Nonsmoking
• Dry-cleaning and ironing services

3. The Silo Hotel

📍Close to: The V&A Waterfront, Greenpoint Stadium, and Cape Town’s city center. ✅Perfect for: Art lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and couples. ✨Hotel style: Luxurious and artistic.

🔍 Where?

Located in the iconic Silo district in the heart of the city, The Silo Hotel is a luxurious space designed by the world-renowned architect, Thomas Heatherwhich.

The hotel was designed to celebrate African architecture and art.

It was built on top of Zeitz MOCAA, the country’s leading contemporary art museum, making it the perfect spot for arts and culture lovers.

🏨 What to expect?

The hotel has an intimate and classy atmosphere that is a great option for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

With beautiful pieces of art and furniture around every corner, you’ll never run out of photo-worthy spots or something cool to look at.

Each room features a unique color scheme and is decorated with a collection of contemporary art from well-known and up-and-coming African artists.

You’ll also have a private balcony overlooking the V&A Waterfront and the city skyline.

📍 On-site activities

• Unwind next to the pool or enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
• Sip on some of South Africa’s finest wines and French Champagne, many of which aren’t readily available elsewhere.
• Enjoy a day at the Silo Spa, featuring the latest wellness therapies and techniques that can be personalized to suit your needs.
• Visit the hotel’s restaurant, where you can have a relaxed meal or even arrange a private dining experience.
• Book your spot at the hotel’s Royal Tea event hosted in the Granary Café.
• Enjoy a guided museum tour organized by the hotel staff or experience it at night with its unique ‘Late Night Fridays’ hosted every week. 

🗺️ Explore the area 

• Head to the V&A waterfront—conveniently located within a minute’s walk from the hotel—for a day filled with fun activities. Our top picks include shopping at luxury boutiques, going for a helicopter ride, or taking a private sunset champagne catamaran tour of the harbor.
• Close to many of Cape Town’s best fine dining restaurants, including FYN which was voted as one of the Top 50 eateries in the world.
• Visit popular tourist spots like Table Mountain or go wine tasting at the exclusive Cellar Club.
• Many popular beaches, like Mouille Point and Saunders Beach, are located close by. 

🛏️ The small details

• Spacious suites with en-suite lounges, bathrooms, and private balconies
• Air-conditioned rooms
• Outdoor pool
• Flat-screen TV in each room
• 24-hour front desk service
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Daily breakfast
• Airport shuttle
• Nonsmoking rooms
• Fitness center

4. Compass House

📍Close to: Clifton 1st and 2nd beach, Sea Point. ✅Perfect for: Romantic getaways and families with older children. ✨Hotel style: Relaxing and luxurious.

🔍 Where?

This boutique hotel is located in the upmarket Bantry Bay, only a few minutes drive away from the bustling city center and lively Sea Point, boasting some of the city’s best restaurants and nightlife. 

Its location makes Compass House a great option for people who want to enjoy a relaxing getaway while still being able to explore everything Cape Town has to offer, right on their doorstep. 

🏨 What to expect?

You can enjoy a relaxing stay in one of the nine stylishly decorated rooms, each with breathtaking ocean views and modern amenities.

The hotel offers an upmarket experience and is a must-visit for couples looking for a luxurious romantic getaway. 

📍 Things to do at Compass House 

• Terrace and lounge area where you can spend the day soaking up the sun while enjoying a cocktail or light bite.
• Spend the day relaxing next to the pool or at the hotel’s other outdoor spaces.
• Unwind on your private balcony with access to room service for anything you need, from drinks and snacks to books and magazines.
• Pamper yourself with one of the luxurious treatments available at the hotel’s spa and wellness center.

🗺️ Explore the area 

• Head to the beach, ideally located across the street from the hotel.
• Explore Cape Town’s restaurants, shops, and museums, situated within a 10-minute drive from the hotel. We recommend enjoying a rooftop cocktail at The Nines before heading for dinner at Arial and ending the night at their on-site speakeasy.
• Enjoy panoramic ocean and mountain views from one of Bantry Bay’s famous lookout points, like The Rock.
• Have dinner at any of the popular restaurants close to the hotel. Some of our favorites include Ellerman House and Ukiyo.

🛏️ The small details

• Complimentary Wi-Fi and parking
• Room service
• Access to complimentary concierge services
• Airport shuttle and other transportation can be arranged
• Outdoor swimming pool
• No children under the age of 18
• Nonsmoking rooms

5. The Grand Daddy Hotel

📍Close to: Greenmarket Square, Bo-Kaap Museum, and popular restaurants. ✅Perfect for: Couples, families, and groups of friends who are looking for a unique, eclectic stay right in the city center. ✨Hotel style: Trendy and unique.

🔍 Where?

Located on the famous Long Street, the Grand Daddy Hotel is a one-of-a-kind property surrounded by some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions.

🏨 What to expect?

With its unique blend of vintage charm and modern luxury, the Grand Daddy Hotel is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a truly unique and unforgettable stay in Cape Town.

Its most distinctive feature is its rooftop trailer park which houses seven vintage Airstream trailers that have been restored and transformed into upmarket hotel rooms. 

Each trailer is uniquely decorated with locally-made pieces and features all of the modern amenities you would expect from a luxury hotel.

If you want a more traditional experience, the Grand Daddy offers a number of stylish and contemporary rooms, too.

📍 Things to do at The Grand Daddy 

• Visit the trendy rooftop bar and restaurant to enjoy sweeping views of Table Mountain and the city.
• Unwind in any of the cozy lounge areas that visitors have exclusive access to.
• Catch up on some reading with books from the hotel’s well-stocked library.

🗺️ Explore the area 

• Make use of the hotel’s complimentary bicycle rentals and head out to explore your surroundings. The iconic Kloof Street is just around the corner and is a vibrant area with many top-rated restaurants and bars like Bombay Bicycle Club or TjingTjing.
• The hotel is located within walking distance of popular landmarks like Greenmarket Square and the Company’s Gardens, as well as many museums and galleries.
• You can also visit Artscape, which offers shows like ballet, plays, and more year-round.
• Experience the best of Cape Town’s bustling nightlife when visiting the iconic Long Street, where you’ll find a mix of restaurants, bars, and clubs to explore.

🛏️ The small details

• Couple and family-friendly rooms
• Breakfast included
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Room service
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Private parking
• BBQ facilities
• Restaurant on site
• Nonsmoking rooms

6. Hotel Lola

📍Close to: Greenpoint Stadium and the V&A Waterfront. ✅Perfect for: Couples or solo travelers who want to explore city life in Cape Town. ✨Hotel style: Unique and trendy.

🔍 Where?

Hotel Lola is a quirky and colorful boutique hotel located in the heart of Cape Town’s trendy De Waterkant neighborhood. 

Although Hotel Lola is close to the hustle and bustle of the city, their focus is on keeping it peaceful and relaxing. 

🏨 What to expect?

With only five suites, Hotel Lola is a small accommodation option, making it an ideal location for couples who prefer an intimate setting for their holiday.

For larger groups, the entire hotel can be rented out as a villa—perfect for you and your closest friends or for a family getaway.

📍 Things to do at Hotel Lola 

• The hotel staff can host exclusive cocktail parties and private dining experiences during your stay.
• Relax and unwind at the rooftop pool after a busy day of exploring the city.
• Daily buffet breakfast.

🗺️ Explore the area

• Close to popular tourist attractions like Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront.
• Walking distance from many restaurants, some of our favorites include El Burro Taqueria and Grand Africa Café and Beach Bar.
• Walking distance from the historic Cape Quarter, where visitors can explore trendy shops, restaurants, and galleries.
• Five-minute walk from Cape Town’s well-known First Thursday event where you can visit many art galleries for free while enjoying drinks and snacks on the first Thursday of every month. This must-attend event will give you a real feel for the city’s vibrant cultural life. 
• Minutes away from the iconic Greenpoint Stadium, home to Cape Town’s rugby team, the Stormers. The Stadium regularly hosts events, including everything from monster truck racing to big concerts — so have a look at what’s on while you’re around and enjoy the vibe! 

🛏️ The details

• Comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms
• Private parking
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Airport shuttle
• Outdoor terrace and garden spaces
• Multilingual staff
• Nonsmoking
• No children under the age of 18
• Cards accepted

7. The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa

 

📍Close to: Chapman’s Peak and Oudekraal beach. ✅Perfect for: Families and couples looking for a once-in-a-lifetime romantic getaway. ✨Hotel style: Classic and high-end.

🔍 Where?

The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa is a tranquil space that offers guests a unique and unforgettable experience—perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Situated on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel features stunning views of the famous Twelve Apostles mountain range and the sea below.

The hotel is also one of the only properties of its kind located in the Table Mountain National Park.

🏨 What to expect?

Its prime location also offers guests easy access to many outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to surfing and swimming.

Inside the hotel, guests will find a large range of luxurious amenities and services designed to make their stay as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

If you stay in their suite or presidential accommodation options, you’ll have access to 24-hour room service, a minibar, and an extensive selection of magazines and books.

📍 Things to do at The Twelve Apostles 

• Treat yourself to a wide range of treatments at the hotel’s world-class spa while enjoying a glass of champagne. You’ll be hosted in the hotel’s upmarket mountain huts for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
• Enjoy a fine dining experience at the hotel’s upmarket restaurants and bars, like The Azure, which offers local and international dishes.
• Head to the cozy and intimate Leopard Bar for a cocktail or glass of wine after your meal.
• Relax next to the beautiful infinity pool that overlooks the ocean.
• Arrange a movie night at the on-site cinema that screens a variety of classic films daily.
• Enjoy the hotel’s afternoon Tea By The Sea event, where you can snack on the chef’s choice of pastries, sandwiches, and other treats as you enjoy the panoramic views.

🗺️ Explore the area 

• Conveniently located close to a number of tourist attractions like the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Chapmans Peak, Table Mountain, and the V&A Waterfront. 
• Enjoy a day at the beach, Sandy Cove is located within walking distance from the hotel.
• Head to the Llandudno lookout point for sundowners and breathtaking views of the ocean.
• Explore nature by hiking one of the popular Hout Bay Corner and Table Mountain National Park trails.
• Shop at the nearby African Curios Market for locally-made souvenirs and unique gifts.

🛏️ The small details

• Couple and family-friendly rooms
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Private parking
• Breakfast included
• Welcome drink upon arrival
• Fitness center
• Airport shuttle
• Nonsmoking rooms

Explore Everything Cape Town Has to Offer with Ease

Whether you’re visiting Cape Town to explore the rich cultural heritage or want to spend as much time on the beach as possible, picking the right place to stay is key.

In this article, we’ve outlined some of the best boutique hotels in Cape Town to help you make the right choice for your trip.

If you’re looking for even more Cape Town-related inspiration, be sure to head to the Seven Best website for a selection of curated articles.

With Seven Best, you’ll also discover hidden gems that will help you make your trip to Cape Town even more memorable. 

The Seven Best

The Seven Best was founded by David McCready to share his passion and experiences of South Africa after more than a decade of visiting the country.

The brand’s name is inspired by Table Mountain recently being named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. 

David and a small team of handpicked writers have come up with curated lists and tips of must-sees and dos when you are visiting, along with other topics we think you might be interested in to further introduce you to this incredibly diverse country.

Learn more about David here.