The suburb of Green Point itself has recently been revamped and is now a hotspot for locals and tourists alike who are looking for a different type of entertainment – from sidewalk cafes to a simple stroll along the Green Point common (currently under a mound of construction earth and steel).
Who goes there?
Lively students, vibrant Capetonians, and tourists looking for a different type of accommodation frequent Green Point. In the months leading up to the 2010 world cup, Green Point will be overflowing with tourists from all over the world. If you love to people-watch, or if you are one of the soccer tourists, you’ll love the lively suburb of Green Point.
When to visit Green Point?
Green Point is on the Atlantic Seaboard, just south of the city. As such, it is susceptible to the prevailing winds in winter and the rain squalls straight off the sea. However, don’t let this put you off – the storms for which Cape Town is so famous are the one thing which makes this area a must-see in winter. The rain and wind whip up the waves to monumental size, something which has to be seen to be believed. If you like to watch the majestic sea on crazy days, why not book a sea-front property and watch the weather move in from the comfort of your own home?
During the summer, Green Point can get to about 35°C. At these moments it is advisable to take a dip in the ocean or use the famous South Easter to take a surfing lesson.
Close By Attractions
* Table Mountain: The iconic flat-topped mountain is a perfect start to your Cape Town holiday. With a rotating cable car ride up to the top and endless views, Table Mountain is a must-do for every person travelling to the Mother City.
* City Centre: For a fun and vibrant nightlife, take a short trip up Long Street and stop at all of the restaurants and bars along the way. Theatres, markets, and clubs litter the city and offer a plethora of choice for your perusal.
* Markets: Green Point offers the largest market on the common in Cape Town. As the common is currently under construction due to the enormous 2010 stadium, the closest markets include the Greenmarket Square outdoor market and, further away, the Hout Bay market. Both are a must-see for African trinkets.
* Robben Island: For a sobering look at a unforgettable part of South African history, take the ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront to the little island off Cape Town and see the cell which held former President Nelson Mandela for 20-odd years.
Things to do near Green Point
Green Point accommodation offers the guest excellent proximity to all things tourist- and business-orientated. A few moments down the road is the Cape Town International Convention Centre and subsequent sprawling CBD. Additionally, the V&A Waterfront offers throngs of shops to please the shop-a-holic and enough business and conference rooms to please any executive.
Shopping in Green Point
Most of your shopping would be done at the shopping emporia of the Waterfront or Sea Point. However, the local Woolworths sells many food and grocery items and is open until 9pm most nights. Additionally, the Sunday market on the common is well-known for selling thousands of items from its many stalls. Make sure you get there early to beat the crowds – the market opens at 8am and shuts at around 4pm.
Restaurants and Entertainment
Wang Thai is the local Thai restaurant, situated across the road from the stadium. Tank is Green Point’s newest restaurant and offers an eclectic mix of Californian sushi and Pacific Rim cuisine. An enormous 20 000 litre salt-water fish tank separates the bar and restaurant from the lounge area – a dining experience is an adventure in itself here.
Zero293 is a Belgian-beer restaurant and serves authentic Belgian, South African, and speciality dishes. The name comes from the dialling code for Belgium, and is a hip and happening place for the youth of Green Point.
Getting around
You are able to get from your Green Point accommodation to the V&A Waterfront on foot but if you fancy a more stylish method of transport, why not get us to arrange the hiring of a car for you? The public transport in Cape Town is safe and reliable, so make sure you catch a taxi or step on the train for a truly South African experience!
Further a field
From Green Point, you’re never more than a five minute drive from the centre of the city. If you wish to explore a little further afield, take a private tour to one of the many wineries in either the Cape Winelands or the Constantia area.
Take the children to the local theme park, Ratanga Junction, and have them tired out for bedtime. If you wish to uncover the Cape in a unique manner, why not take your family to the closest game reserve to Cape Town, Aquila? This game reserve offers one day or overnight safari options, perfect for a flying visit.
The Cape Quarter, Green Point’s most prolific after-dark activity centre, has recently been completely renovated and has bought the thronging crowds back to this area. The gay-friendly suburb is known for its vibrant nightlife and amazing views over the ocean.
