Nightclubs and bars in South Africa

Dockside Cape Town is the largest multi-purpose entertainment complex of its kind in Africa. Occupying 6000 squared meters of land, Dockside Cape Town is situated on the banks of the Century City water canal development. Aside from its phenomenal sound system, the main dance floor inside Dockside boasts an incredible 350 000 watt laser and lighting system.
The advanced level of technology present in Dockside enables it to comfortably cater for any function. Up to five thousand people, at a level of quality and service beyond those reachable by any other venue.
State-of-the-art sound, lasers and lights with the best of international and local DJ?s. The main dance arena also features and impressive hydraulic stage!

Dress Code: No shorts, sandals or tank tops.

When we first arrived, all was quiet and the place was empty but we'd come because the food was supposed to be good (it was). By the time we were done eating, the place was rocking to the sounds of a lively local band. I don't think I'm exaggerating when I say the lead singer's voice was "operatic" - he simply sounded amazing but this was no opera, it was a hip swinging, toe tapping, blend of jazz and African rhythms.

Dress Code: Totally casual - come as you are (although I'm sure shoes and shirt are required).

I think the Keg is really kind of a franchise of sorts, but they do offer some great beers including Castle Milk Stout which was my favorite dark beer I found in Africa. Since this tip is relating to nightlife, it was a nice place to go sit on the patio in Margate and watch people up and down the streets. It was also quite a surprise to hear hords of people singing Take me Home West Virginia by John Denver karaoke style across the street. :) They also did a rendition of Achy Breaky Heart. Really the last thing one expects to hear while sitting on the East Coast of South Africa.

..."The Keg is South Africa's most popular English Pub and Restaurant group. With over 40 Kegs countrywide and steadily growing, there is definitely a Keg near you. Offering something for everyone, the Keg is warm and friendly and serves up great food."

Dress Code: Casual

The night safari should be an important part of your South African trip as there are many animals that you would have the chances to see in their nature only at night. However, a night safari is must be a guided tour in most places as self drive is not allow after the sun set.

South Africa has a night life like any western country with clubs and pubs. However, when I visited here I was for another reason, I was for the nature and such wild life. Being there in the Southern African winter was also meant it was very cold, and so, a drink by the fireplace was one of my favourite nightlife options :)

A Shebeen (pronounced ‘sha bean’) is a South African name for a local bar. Calling these bars might be misleading. Often these local bars are simply 1-2 people standing behind prison-like bars and handing over cold bottles of drink from coolers inside. The outside may be an odd collection of chairs, plastic crates and/or logs to sit on. Music is always played and often from speakers that were blown 2 years ago. This may sound unattractive, but it is actually a good time and a way to meet locals. Across South Africa you will find these little local bars and they are a great way to meet people. Often locals may briefly stare as they arrive and see you. After that people will always tentatively approach you and ask about you. I have always met people this way and it has always been a good night. South Africans are all sociable people and you will have some rewarding experiences this way – if you can remember them!

We visited Moya Restaurant which I found most interesting. It has a real African theme in the motif as well as the waiters, waitresses, and bar people.
It is a bustling place and reservations are necessary most times.

There is a small bar overlooking a pit where a band was playing.

A very entertaining place to go.

Dress Code: I saw many in casual dress.

It has lots of different dance rooms - huge ones for dance and smaller ones for soul, R&B etc. Brilliant place to meet locals and others, and also has plenty of bars dotted around. A very, very lively and cool place.

Dress Code: Smart/casual - men will not get in if wearing sandals.