Just across the road from the stunning ocean waves and in the heart of Camps Bay's pumping social scene, this lovely hotel is as close to paradise as many socialites will ever come. It is luxurious enough to please experienced travelers, but with rates that match its mellow atmosphere.
All rates include a traditional English breakfast. Tides is the main dining room and offers a unique prix-fixe multicourse menu each evening. By concentrating on a smaller selection of dishes, the chef is able to focus more attention on culinary wizardry and presentation. Pickier eaters will prefer a light meal in the deli, but the cocktail bar is the true hangout with shaken drinks, a light menu and a crackling fireplace setting the mood by the ocean.
Four pools compete for attention, and cabanas or massive umbrellas shade guests from the stinging sun. Padded chaise longues and a doting pool staff ensure that all are pampered. Tennis courts and gym facilities are available at the nearby sports club free of charge. Spa services are only a short shuttle ride away to a sister hotel's spa. Parking is available in a secure lot.
One high-tech guest room is equipped for business travelers and features a full LCD screen and entertainment center. Two other rooms were being converted at inspection into a tourist information center, and a deck was being built to cover the back of the hotel. Nearly 300 guests can convene in the meeting facilities at one time, but keeping their focus from wandering to the sunny sands just out the door is a tricky conundrum for sure.
Subdued earth tones prevail in the attractive guest quarters, with a choice of views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range or the ocean. A unique private foyer introduces guests to each room, allowing for discreet room-service delivery and extra soundproofing. Creamy white fabrics and walls provide an almost sleek feel, with crisp edges only sharpening the colorful views outside. King or queen beds feature high-quality linens and comforters. The standard amenities are all in place, including minibars, coffeemakers, safes and hair dryers. Baths feature spacious double vanities, heated towel racks and separate shower stalls.
Not all rooms have balconies or head-on natural views, so be sure to specify upon check-in. Pool views are pleasant, but a bit underwhelming considering the other choices. Luxury rooms are top-notch, and suites even feature whirlpools on balconies. For more extravagant needs, a five-bedroom, fully furnished villa with private pool, kitchen, barbecue patio, tiled baths and sweeping balconies is the way to go. Request a premier Sea View room to avoid any disappointment.
Room service operates at all hours, and two rooms cater to handicapped guests. A few guest rooms could use additional inspection from housekeeping, especially in the baths. Street-facing (same as ocean-view) rooms suffer from late-night rumbles coming from the bars nearby. Not all guests prefer being in the center of town, and this resort provides the benefits of suburban quietude without sacrificing a hip social scene. Meet the Southern Hemisphere's Miami Beach at Camps Bay.
