We arrived at The Onyx with the sense that we were stepping into a space where global style meets unmistakable South African character. Set in the heart of Cape Town’s fast-evolving Foreshore district, the hotel blends urban sophistication with a subtle glamour that feels reminiscent of New York, London or Paris, yet remains grounded in the city’s own creative energy. Its polished surfaces, contemporary design language and effortless flow place it firmly in the realm of destinations created for travellers who appreciate independence without giving up the comforts of a hotel environment.

Part of the appeal of staying here is its enviable location. The Onyx sits just a short walk from the Cape Town International Convention Centre, and within easy reach of the V&A Waterfront, the Artscape Theatre, and the increasingly lively East City Precinct. For business travellers, it takes the stress out of logistics; for leisure guests, it makes dipping in and out of the city’s cultural and culinary offerings remarkably simple. Even before we reached our room, the hotel had already positioned itself as a base where convenience and cosmopolitan flair meet naturally.

Across its 131 apartment-style units, The Onyx offers views of Cape Town that shape the stay as much as the interiors do. Table Mountain rises behind the skyline, shifting in tone throughout the day, while the harbour adds its own sense of motion. This connection to the city makes the rooms feel lived-in rather than merely functional. The 18 Studios, sized between 35 and 52 m², are comfortably spacious and neatly equipped for a modern city stay, balancing workable space with quiet corners to relax. Their design reflects the property’s broader palette: soft greys, deep greens and crisp whites working together to create a sense of calm.

We stayed in one of the 44 Deluxe Studios, which extends the experience with additional room to move and elevated views. The design approach is consistent with the Studios—modern greys and rich greens contrasted by white accents—but the space feels more expansive and framing of the mountain and cityscape. It’s the kind of room that makes it easy to unwind after a full day out, yet still feels sharp enough to double as a workspace if needed.

Beyond the studios, the hotel’s selection of apartments offers notable flexibility. The 36 One-Bedroom Apartments, ranging from 46 to 66 m², combine a clean black-and-white palette with private lounge areas and added amenities that make longer stays comfortable. They feel intentionally residential, and that privacy becomes a luxury of its own. For guests who need even more room, the 15 Deluxe One-Bedroom Apartments, measuring between 77 and 102 m², offer generous space and exceptional views. The monochrome styling continues here, paired with contemporary finishes that contribute to a minimalist, uncluttered atmosphere.

The most expansive options are found in the 11 Two-Bedroom Apartments and the 7 Deluxe Two-Bedroom Apartments, all between 77 and 102 m². Styled in contrasting shades for a bold, modern aesthetic, they offer the sense of exclusivity that comes with having a city apartment rather than a hotel suite. The Deluxe variants also feature spacious balconies with sweeping mountain views, giving families or groups an elevated vantage point to enjoy Cape Town’s dramatic skyline.

Throughout these categories, The Onyx maintains a consistent design ethos. Emerald tones, layered greys and crisp whites appear across the spaces, creating a cohesive visual identity that feels both elegant and welcoming. Each unit includes a lounge area and a private kitchenette equipped with modern appliances—one of the features that sets the property apart. Having the choice to prepare meals adds freedom, especially for longer stays or those who appreciate self-sufficiency.

At the same time, guests are not limited to in-room dining. The ground floor is home to two standout restaurants: YU Asian Tapas and Bar, which brings a contemporary Asian flair to the table, and MRKT, a café-style space that suits casual breakfasts and light meals. Having both options on-site means guests can tailor their dining to their rhythm, mixing home-style convenience with the ease of restaurant service.

The hotel complements its accommodation offering with a range of facilities designed to support both productivity and leisure. For those travelling on business, the conference facilities provide an upscale, polished environment suitable for meetings, workshops, launches, media events and corporate gatherings. Available in half-day or full-day packages, the spaces are equipped to handle the demands of business travel while maintaining the hotel’s signature sense of style.

The gym is a well-considered space, equipped with modern cardio machines, free weights and functional training equipment. It’s bright, clean and practical—ideal for keeping a fitness routine intact while travelling.

The Sanctuary Spa, by contrast, offers a quieter, restorative space where guests can choose from massages, facials and wellness treatments designed to counterbalance the pace of city life. Its calming environment adds an important layer of relaxation to the overall experience.

A heated pool, secure parking and laundry facilities round out the hotel’s offering, ensuring that stays are smooth and efficiently supported.

The Onyx manages to feel both self-contained and connected to the city outside, making it suitable for travellers who want a refined base that adapts to their plans rather than dictating them. Cape Town is a city full of contrasts—natural beauty beside urban grit, heritage alongside innovation—and The Onyx captures that blend in a way that feels authentic. It offers a polished, contemporary stay with the flexibility of apartment living, matched with the convenience and comfort of hotel services. For travellers and food lovers looking for a place that reflects the city’s evolving identity, it stands as a compelling choice.