Cape Town has one of the most relaxed cannabis scenes in South Africa. Whether you're a seasoned dagga enthusiast or a visitor without a reliable source, there are clubs and lounges across the city where you can browse products, relax and meet like-minded people.
In this roundup we look at some of the cannabis clubs and lounges in Cape Town, what they offer in THC and CBD products, and the extras that make each one worth a visit.
Cannabis clubs are private establishments where members can gather and enjoy cannabis in a safe, controlled space. They're more intimate than a public venue, and many also run events, sell accessories and offer a small lounge or cafe.
Is it legal? A quick note
Since the Constitutional Court's 2018 ruling, adults in South Africa can legally use, possess and grow cannabis in private for personal use, and the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act of 2024 has since put that on a statutory footing.
Selling cannabis is still regulated, and clubs operate within a framework that is still developing, so rules differ from venue to venue. Smoking in public, and driving under the influence, remain illegal. You must be 18 or older, and you should always check the rules at the door.
How to choose a cannabis club
Atmosphere: Some clubs feel like a coffee shop, others like a gaming lounge or a medical dispensary. Choose the vibe that suits you.
Location: Pick a club that's easy to reach, and plan a safe way home, since you shouldn't drive afterwards.
Amenities: Look at the extras, such as a lounge, cafe, events or arcade games.
Membership: Some clubs require a membership or sign-up, so check before you go.
Products: Clubs differ in their THC and CBD ranges, so check what's on offer, especially if you want CBD or medicinal products.
Studio 420 Newlands
Rooftop 420 Newlands is now called Studio 420 Newlands. It is no longer affiliated with the other Rooftop 420 stores in South Africa, and Studio 420 also has another branch in Plumstead.
The Newlands shop is at 18 Wilkinson Street, just a stone's throw from the bustling Dean Street. It combines a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of entertainment, and offers a selection of cannabis products for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
It's about more than shopping. You can play arcade games, quench your thirst with slush puppies or coffee, and snack on a variety of munchies.
De Waterkant
House of Tiger
House of Tiger is a members-only cannabis lounge and private collective in De Waterkant. It focuses on high-quality cannabis cultivation, with knowledgeable guidance and a calm space to work, socialise and relax.
The space is designed around intention rather than excess. Members get lounge access, cannabis products and delivery, plus a newsletter with monthly event updates, strain reviews and product highlights. Its blog, Higher Education, publishes science-based and lifestyle articles about cannabis.
Membership is required, and you apply through an online form. The club is restricted to adults aged 21 and over. It's open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 10pm and on Sundays from 10am to 7pm, including public holidays, and Telegram is the main way to get in touch.
Website: House of Tiger
Fish Hoek
Hidden Leaf Wellness
Hidden Leaf Wellness is an apothecary store and private members club in Fish Hoek, on the False Bay side of the peninsula. Its motto is "From leaf to relief", and its range covers botanicals, edibles and vapes.
It's a good option if you're on the south side of the peninsula and want a relaxed, wellness-focused spot. The shop notes that it makes no sales to anyone under 18, and you can get in touch on WhatsApp on 071 100 1056 or through its Instagram page.
Website: Hidden Leaf Wellness on Instagram
Gardens (Kloof Street Village)
Happy 420
Happy 420 is a relatively new establishment with a physical store in the vibrant Kloof Street Village and a fully stocked online store. It offers fast nationwide delivery, typically within one to two days.
It occasionally hosts pop-up events that showcase local artists alongside a wide range of cannabis products. It also has a Smart Shop range of legal items, such as "Tryp" mushroom gummies and kratom gummies. The shop has a chilled space for visitors, and it sells other merchandise such as apparel.
Website: Happy 420
Sea Point
Cannibisters
Cannibisters is set up like a familiar retail store, coffee shop and relaxed lounge. It's a home away from home where members can share cannabis and related products privately and responsibly.
On a few nights of the week, there is classical or light jazz music and cover bands, so members can spend a few extra enjoyable hours there.
Diep River
Uncanni
Uncanni makes cannabis and full-spectrum CBD products. It began as a horticultural shop that specialised in hydroponics, lighting, grow mediums and nutrients, to help people grow their own fruit, vegetables and medicine.
It has since expanded to offer a range of products for your home, your body and even your pets.
Table View
Tree of Life
Tree of Life aims to offer the healing potential of traditional medicine as the root of wellness. It describes itself as a retail innovator that supplies organic medicinal products based on Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), within South Africa's legal framework.
Its stated core values are friendly service, integrity and a harmonious work environment.
Plumstead and Claremont
Canabliss
Canabliss is a Cape Town company founded in 2018 by the Rosen family, who spent countless hours researching the benefits of cannabis and the best products on the market.
It prides itself on sourcing only the best cannabis products locally, and it has more than one shop in the southern suburbs.
Website: Canabliss
Sea Point
Green & Purple Medical Dispensary
Green & Purple has become a prominent destination in Sea Point for those who want premium products, holistic information and a soothing atmosphere.
One standout feature is a resident general practitioner on site, who gives visitors expert guidance on the safe and responsible use of cannabis for both recreational and medicinal purposes. It's a highly recommended weed lounge.
Before you go: opening hours, addresses and membership rules change, and clubs sometimes move, rename or close. Check each club's website or social media before you visit, and please consume responsibly and never drive afterwards.
Keep exploring: if you enjoy cannabis culture, take a look at our guide to the best cannabis-inspired TV shows and our list of the best documentaries about psychedelics.
FAQ
Is cannabis legal in South Africa?
Adults can legally use, possess and grow cannabis in private for personal use. Public consumption, driving under the influence and dealing outside the regulated framework are still illegal.
What is a cannabis club?
A cannabis club is a private venue where members can gather and enjoy cannabis in a controlled, social space. Many also sell products and accessories, and some host events.
Do I need to be a member?
It depends on the club. Some ask you to sign up or become a member before you can buy or use the lounge, so check before you visit.
Can I buy cannabis in Cape Town as a tourist?
Visitors can usually shop at clubs and dispensaries, but you need to be 18 or older, and you should check each venue's rules. Don't take cannabis out of the country.
Can I smoke in public in Cape Town?
No. Private use is legal, but consuming cannabis in public is not. Use a private space or a licensed lounge, and never drive after using.
What is the difference between THC and CBD?
THC is the compound that produces a high. CBD does not, and is often used for relaxation and wellness. Many clubs and dispensaries stock both.
