Tourist Guide to Casinos in Cape Town

Cape Town is celebrated for Table Mountain, its beaches, and wine estates, but the Mother City also knows how to keep the cards and dice rolling. The Western Cape’s casino scene isn’t as vast as Johannesburg’s, but it’s just as diverse, from big entertainment complexes to boutique resort-casinos tucked into wine country or coastal towns. 

Whether you’re a Capetonian looking for a weekend escape or a visitor exploring the region, here’s where to play and what to expect.

How Many Tourists Visit Casinos in Cape Town?

While hard figures for Cape Town alone are not published, a few indicators give us a sense of scale:

• GrandWest draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, making it one of the busiest attractions in the province.

• According to Statistics South Africa’s Domestic Tourism Survey, about 1.1% of overnight trips and 0.6% of day trips by South Africans include a casino visit. That’s thousands of domestic tourists adding casinos to their itineraries each year.

• At a national level, the South African casino-tourism market was valued at about $3.1 billion in 2023, with forecasts to keep growing steadily. (Spherical Insights)

So while Cape Town casinos may not rival Johannesburg in sheer size, they play a strong role in both local leisure and tourist entertainment.

Top Casinos in Cape Town

Cape Town’s casinos blend gaming, entertainment, and a bit of local flavour, making them fun for both first-timers and seasoned players. These are a few of the favourites worth adding to your list.

GrandWest Casino & Entertainment World

GrandWest Casino is the heart of Cape Town’s casino industry. In fact, according to Future Market Insights, it is the largest casino in South Africa, boasting more than 2,560 slot and video poker machines and 79 table games. That scale alone makes it a destination in its own right.

But it’s not just the gaming floor that draws crowds. GrandWest doubles as a full entertainment hub, with live shows, an ice rink, cinemas, bowling, and family-friendly restaurants. For many domestic and international tourists, it’s a must-visit stop while in the city.

Other Casinos Worth Exploring

Mykonos Casino (Langebaan)

Just over an hour from Cape Town, this resort-style casino blends coastal charm with gaming. Located next to the Langebaan Lagoon, Mykonos Casino is ideal for travellers combining casino play with a seaside break.

Golden Valley Casino (Worcester)

Tucked into the Breede River Valley, this smaller casino offers a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Golden Valley Casino is a favourite with road-trippers heading along Route 62 or into wine country.

Garden Route Casino (Mossel Bay)

Perfect for travellers heading east along the Garden Route, Garden Route Casino combines scenic views with a solid selection of slots and table games.

The Caledon Casino & Spa (Caledon)

About 100 km from Cape Town, Caledon Casino is as much about relaxation as it is about gaming. Famous for its hot springs and spa, it’s a popular choice for couples or weekenders looking to unwind.

What Tourists Can Expect

• Choice of Games: From high-tech slots to poker tables and roulette wheels, Cape Town casinos cover the classics.

• Family Entertainment: Especially at GrandWest, non-gamblers can enjoy ice skating, cinemas, or live concerts.

• Food & Accommodation: On-site restaurants are common, while resort casinos like Mykonos or Caledon offer hotels and spas.

• Atmosphere: GrandWest is big, bustling, and glitzy. Smaller venues like Golden Valley offer a slower pace and a more personal feel.

Why Cape Town’s Casinos Are Worth a Visit

Casinos in Cape Town aren’t just about slots and tables. They’re part of the city’s broader lifestyle mix. GrandWest holds the crown as South Africa’s largest casino, while the smaller resort-style venues around the Western Cape pair gaming with wine, coastlines, or spa getaways. Whether you’re a local visitor or a tourist exploring South Africa, Cape Town’s casinos are worth adding to your itinerary.