Prepare to awaken your nocturnal spirit as we explore Cape Town after the sun goes down. This enchanting city beckons you to explore its dazzling nightlife, from marvelling at the city’s skyline at dusk to sipping cocktails in sophisticated downtown bars.
Cape Town by moonlight has something for every night owl, whether you’re looking for arts and culture, entertainment or outdoor activities.
Also read: Kloof Corner: The perfect hike for sunrise and sunset chasers
Here are 10 things to do in Cape Town at night.
1. Embark on a moonlight hike up Lion’s Head
A full-moon walk up Lion’s Head is an enchanting experience, providing a new perspective of the city under the night sky. This monthly trek to Lion’s Head’s summit, which stands proudly at 669 metres, unveils breathtaking vistas of Cape Town and its surroundings, illuminated by the moon’s radiant glow.
Arriving at the summit before sunset ensures an unobstructed view of the sky and cityscape, painted in a palette of mesmerising colours. Because the descent is popular on full moon nights, hiking in a group ensures both enjoyment and safety. Bring comfortable clothing, a reliable torch, sturdy hiking shoes, a camera and plenty of water.
The journey begins with a challenging ascent along the contour of Lion’s Head, which leads to a more level path surrounded by indigenous South African fynbos. Seize opportunities to capture the allure of Sea Point, Green Point and Camps Bay through your lens along the way. The final leg features narrow ledges and chains that require attention and caution.
As a reward for your perseverance, an expansive panorama showcasing Cape Town’s alluring combination of oceanic beauty and majestic mountains will greet you at the top.
- Book: [email protected]
- Contact: 0817625551
- Website: hikelionshead.co.za
2. Play bingo at The Electric
Set aside your preconceived notions about bingo, because this could be the wildest game night Cape Town has ever witnessed.
The Electric is known for its fresh juice and nutmilk selection, but when the sun goes down, it transforms into an eye-catching venue for evening events. The Electric is two minutes from the District Six Museum and on the same block as many popular Cape Town restaurants. Among them are Harringtons, SurfaRosa, Nude Foods and New York Bagel.
Bingo Thursdays began as an online event during the COVID-19 pandemic. It gave people a few hours of amusement away from the monotony of lockdown. Now Bingo Thursdays are held at least once a month. At 6pm, delicious food prepared by the Electric’s kitchen is served and the fun begins – or continues. The game of bingo is simple and entertaining and winners take home a prize.
Like every good event, Bingo Night at the Electric is an opportunity to dress up. Dress spooky, kooky or glamorous. The more outrageous you look, the better.
- Times: Thursdays, dinner from 6 pm and the games begin at 8pm
- Location: 48 Canterbury Street, District Six
- Book: the-electric.com | 079 809 1542
3. Go for a drink at Harrington’s Cocktail Lounge
Harrington’s Cocktail Lounge is a classic cocktail lounge, restaurant and boutique bar all rolled into one. Beautifully polished wooden accents, windows, velvet bottle service booths, a dedicated smoking lounge and a DJ booth outfitted for late-night revelry are all on the menu.
The lounge is located upstairs, with a view of 61 Harrington Street. The open panoramic windows provide a great view of the neighbourhood, and they make an ideal spot to sit, relax and enjoy one of its house wines, craft cocktails or tapas.
- Location: 61B Harrington Street, District Six, Cape Town
- Times: Wednesday, 4pm to 12am | Thursday to Saturday, 4pm to 4am
- Book: [email protected]
- Contact: 078 916 7903
- Website: harringtonstreet.co.za
4. Catch a Labia Theatre screening
Looking for a one-of-a-kind movie experience that won’t cost the earth? Look no further than Cape Town’s Labia Theatre. With a rich history dating back to the 1940s, this intimate cinema is ideal for film lovers and couples looking for a romantic night out.
The Labia shows a wide range of international films, including independent, arthouse, classic and blockbuster releases.
With ticket prices that are lower than those of most mainstream theatres, you can enjoy an affordable night out without sacrificing quality. And the cosy, intimate setting is ideal for a romantic date night.
- Location: 68 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town
- Book: Webtickets
- Contact: 021 424 5927 | [email protected]
- Website: thelabia.co.za
5. Go for dinner on Kloof Street
Just one of the many culinary gems on Kloof, Kloof Street House is a magical and intimate dining oasis set in a Victorian house adorned with fairy lights. Each room has its own unique personality, making it an enigmatic experience for everyone. From romantic candlelit dinners to live jazz during Sunday lunch, this venue offers something for everyone.
The brasserie-style menu uses responsibly sourced, free-range and grass-fed meat to create delectable meals. Sharing dishes bursting with flavour satisfies your culinary cravings, and the cocktails are the epitome of a night at Kloof Street House – a hint of glamour, a dash of charm and bubbling over with flavour.
At Kloof Street House, they believe in gathering people around feasts and good conversation. The warm and inviting ambience encourages people to come together and share a memorable experience.
- Location: 30 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
- Times: Monday, 12pm until late | Tuesday to Sunday, 10am until late
- Bookings: kloofstreethouse.co.za/reservations
- Contact: +27 21 423 4413 | [email protected]
- Website: kloofstreethouse.co.za
6. Listen to jazz at The Piano Bar
The Piano Bar is a trendy New York-inspired music revue bar and eatery with a strong African influence in Cape Town. Located at the corner of Jarvis and Napier Streets, a wraparound terrace allows for views of De Waterkant village, Devil’s Peak and the bay.
The Piano Bar is equipped with a baby grand piano, microphone, instrument plug-in points and surround sound through excellent speakers. It hosts a rotation of professional and amateur musicians, from the jazz pianist to the student trying to find his or her voice.
- Location: 47 Napier Street, De Waterkant, Cape Town
- Times: Tuesday to Saturday, 3pm to 11pm
- Bookings: dineplan.com
- Contact: 027 21 007 5212 | [email protected]
7. Sing some karaoke at Dizzys
Dizzys, a popular karaoke hotspot in the heart of Camps Bay, guarantees a night of fun and entertainment. Dizzys caters to every melodic preference, ensuring that each guest discovers a tune that resonates with their musical soul, with an expansive repertoire of songs spanning from timeless classics to the trendiest chart-toppers.
With excellent sound and lighting technology, Dizzys invites you to unleash your inner superstar and take centre stage in an atmosphere brimming with contagious energy, whether you’re a seasoned crooner or a first-time performer.
- Location: 41 The Dr, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Karaoke times: Tuesday, until 12am
- Contact: 021 438 2686 | [email protected]
8. Visit a gallery for dinner and an exhibition viewing
Date Night at the Museum is a weekly event hosted by the Norval Foundation’s Peko Peko restaurant every Thursday between 12pm and 8pm. A set menu for two allows you and your dining partner to try some of the best dishes on the menu while taking in the beautiful views of the Norval Foundation’s serene wetland and sculpture garden.
Along with this offer and as part of the R800 price, the museum galleries will stay open until the restaurant closes. This gives you the unique opportunity to walk through the galleries at night with your champagne before or after your meal.
- Location: Norval Foundation | 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai, Cape Town
- Times: Thursdays, 12pm to 8pm
- Book: 087 654 5902 | [email protected]
- Website:
9. Go for a boogie at Safehouse Nightclub
Look no further than Safehouse Nightclub and Eatery for a thrilling night of dancing until the early morning hours. This newly established venue on Church Street has quickly become the go-to spot in town, thanks to its vibrant deep house music that sets the mood Monday through Saturday.
On First Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, the venue transforms into a pulsating dancefloor, where skilled DJs blend hip-hop, house and Afrobeats to keep the party going. Safehouse also plans to host live performances by talented artists throughout the week, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.
- Location: 75 Church St, CBD, Cape Town
- Times: Thursday to Saturday, 8pm to 12am
- Contact: 067 332 3558
10. Catch a show at the Artscape Theatre
The Artscape Theatre is a thriving cultural centre that hosts a wide range of artistic performances, such as musicals, ballets, operas and theatre productions. It allows you to immerse yourself in Cape Town’s vibrant art scene.
Whether you enjoy theatre, music or dance, the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town offers a rewarding and pleasurable experience. A visit to the Artscape promises a memorable adventure with its diverse range of performances, beautiful architecture and commitment to supporting local talent.
- Location: D.F. Malan St, Foreshore Cape Town
- Contact: 021 410 9800 | [email protected]
- Calendar: artscape.co.za/whats-on-now/
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Picture: redcharlie | @redcharlie1 / Unsplash
