Cape Town, with its breath taking scenery and vibrant culture, is more than just a bucket-list destination – it’s a rising powerhouse in South Africa’s business landscape.
While Johannesburg might hold the title of the nation’s financial hub, Cape Town is the city that business travellers are eager to explore. Its unique blend of stunning natural beauty and a dynamic business environment creates a magnetism that attracts companies and professionals from across the globe. Whether you’re sealing a deal over a scenic lunch at the V&A Waterfront or attending a high-profile conference at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, this city offers a mix of work and leisure like no other. Cape Town’s allure lies in its ability to seamlessly blend business with unforgettable experiences, making it the preferred choice for domestic and international meetings alike.
Beyond the Tourist Hotspots
Most visitors to Cape Town follow a similar pattern of experiences but beyond the well-known tourist and business hotpots lies a world of unique experiences that can truly elevate your visit. Thanks to a favourable exchange rate, even luxury activities like helicopter tours over the city become surprisingly affordable. Yet, what often makes a trip to Cape Town memorable is stepping off the beaten path and discovering its vibrant local culture. Some locals will tell you to head west.
Discovering the West Coast
It’s easy to get caught up in the central “city bowl” area, where most tourists flock. However, just beyond this hub, you’ll find a treasure trove of hidden gems that only locals typically know about. Head out along the stunning West Coast, where new developments such as Century City and Sandown Square offer modern office parks and conference facilities. These areas combine the convenience of state-of-the-art business environments with the opportunity to explore one of the world’s most breath taking coastal routes—all just minutes away from the city centre. Whether you’re in town for a meeting or a conference, there’s a wealth of experiences waiting to be uncovered that go far beyond the typical tourist itinerary.
Local Flavours at Sunset
For those looking to experience Cape Town like a local, a sunset at Doodles—a much-loved beachside bar and restaurant known for its incredible pizzas—is a must. It’s a quintessential spot for sundowners, offering stunning views of the ocean and a casual vibe that invites mingling with both tourists and locals. But the West Coast has even more to offer. Just a 20 to 30-minute drive from the city centre, you’ll find charming venues like Ons Huisie, On the Rocks, and the Blue Peter. These iconic spots are perfect for a relaxed business meeting or unwinding after a busy day, all while taking in panoramic sea views that make doing business here a genuine pleasure.
Stay on the West Coast
For a unique stay outside the bustling city bowl, the West Coast boasts an array of fantastic accommodation options. If you’re after luxury with convenient access to Cape Town’s main business hubs, consider the sophisticated Crystal Towers Hotel in Century City. For travellers seeking stunning ocean vistas, the four-star Lagoon Beach Hotel and Blouberg Beach Hotel provide comfortable stays with the added allure of being right by the sea. For a more intimate experience, boutique guest houses such as The Sir David Hotel and Salt Boutique Guest House offer a peaceful retreat with personalised service, making them ideal for discerning business travellers who appreciate comfort without the high-end price tag. This area is the perfect blend of business and leisure, giving visitors a taste of Cape Town’s local charm while staying within easy reach of key corporate destinations.
Wine and Golf on the West Coast
If you’re a golf enthusiast visiting Cape Town, the West Coast offers two exceptional courses that shouldn’t be missed: Milnerton Links and Atlantic Beach. Both provide a challenging game set against a backdrop of breath taking ocean views, with the stunning scenery likely to distract even the most focused player. While you’re conducting business on the fairway, your partner can indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at Lagoon Beach Hotel. For a more leisurely day, they can stroll along the endless sandy beaches or head slightly inland to explore the renowned Durbanville Hills wine route. These local wine farms, nestled just a short drive from the city, are also ideal spots for a business lunch or dinner, offering an exquisite blend of local flavours and spectacular scenery.
Surfing for Business and Pleasure
For those seeking adventure beyond the boardroom, Cape Town’s West Coast is a haven for surfers and kiteboarders. The area, particularly Big Bay and Blouberg, is famous for its consistent winds and world-class surf conditions, making it the perfect host for events like the Red Bull King of the Air. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner keen to learn, the West Coast provides an excellent opportunity to hit the waves. In Cape Town, it’s not uncommon to see business deals sealed on the surf—there’s a unique camaraderie among the local business and surf communities, almost like a secret society where networking meets adrenaline.
Elevate Your Experience
So, next time you visit Cape Town, head west and elevate your experience. The combination of business and leisure on the West Coast promises to offer a memorable and well-rounded taste of the Mother City’s unique lifestyle.