Clifton Beaches, Cape Town - an aerial view of a city by the ocean
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Clifton Beaches Cape Town

4.7
·659 reviews·, South Africa

Four pristine white-sand beaches in Cape Town, famous for their clear, cold Atlantic waters and spectacular sunset views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm seas, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Clifton Beaches, Cape Town - an aerial view of a city by the ocean

Clifton Beaches Cape Town

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm seas, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Four pristine white-sand beaches in Cape Town, famous for their clear, cold Atlantic waters and spectacular sunset views.

4.7
(659 reviews)

"The most beautiful beaches in Cape Town, despite the cold water!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Refreshments

Beachside vendors are pricey! Pack your own drinks and snacks to save money.

Embrace the Cold Water

The Atlantic is bracing! Be prepared for a refreshing dip.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clifton 4th Beach

Clifton 4th Beach

Clifton

The most popular and accessible of the four, perfect for sunbathing and people-watching.

Clifton 3rd Beach

Clifton 3rd Beach

Clifton

A more tranquil spot, often favored by locals and known for its beautiful views.

Sunset Views

Sunset Views

All Clifton Beaches

Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds and the Cold

Clifton's beaches are stunning but the Atlantic water is bracingly cold! Visit early morning for calmer seas and fewer people, especially on Clifton 4th Beach, known for its accessibility. Pack your own snacks and drinks to avoid pricey beachside purchases. Reddit

Parking and Access

Parking can be a challenge, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider ride-sharing. Clifton 4th Beach is generally the most accessible with parking available across the road. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm seas, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for sunsets
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

who are you taking on a sunset date in Cape Town?🧡 Locations in the video👇🏼 The Lawns at Roundhouse Bakoven Beach Clifton Signal Hill Llandudno Sea Point Utopia Roof Top Save for later! #capetowntravel #capetownsouthafrica #visitcapetown #capetownguide #sunsetlover #sunset
@uniquetravelclub
55.3K likes • 449.5K views

Bring Your Own Refreshments

Beachside vendors are pricey! Pack your own drinks and snacks to save money. Reddit

Embrace the Cold Water

The Atlantic is bracing! Be prepared for a refreshing dip. Reddit

Most stunning Airbnb in Cape Town – best sea views, a beautiful garden, and the most exquisite interior design!✨ 📍Clifton, Cape Town, South Africa #southafrica #capetown #clifton #airbnb #airbnbfinds #westerncape #capetownsouthafrica #capetownstay #hiddengems #beautifuldestinations #travelguide
@ohhhmyguide
39.1K likes • 174.9K views
FULL CAPE TOWN ITINERARY 👇🏼 Save for later!🧡 BEACHES ⛱️ • Clifton 3rd+4th • Camps Bay • Llandudno Beach • Muizenberg Beach • Bakoven Beach • Noordhoek • Fish Hoek • Buffels Bay Beach CAFÉS/BREAKFAST ☕️🥑 • Pauline’s - Sea Point & Green Point • Arthur’s Mini Super • Norfolk Deli • Our Local • Platō Coffee - Sea Point • Naked coffee • Nourish’d Café & Juicery • The Strangers Club • Molten Toffee ...
@uniquetravelclub
31.8K likes • 927.1K views

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking is limited, especially on Clifton 4th Beach. Get there early to secure a spot. Reddit

Respect Local Etiquette

Be mindful of noise levels and local customs. Reddit

reddit.com

Best beaches in Cape Town for tourists

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Refreshments

Beachside vendors are pricey! Pack your own drinks and snacks to save money. Reddit

Embrace the Cold Water

The Atlantic is bracing! Be prepared for a refreshing dip. Reddit

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking is limited, especially on Clifton 4th Beach. Get there early to secure a spot. Reddit

Respect Local Etiquette

Be mindful of noise levels and local customs. Reddit

Capture the Sunset Magic

The sunsets here are legendary. Don't forget your camera! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(659 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Clifton Beaches are consistently praised for their stunning natural beauty, clean white sand, and clear waters, offering a picturesque escape. Visitors appreciate the accessibility of 4th Beach and the breathtaking sunset views. However, the extremely cold Atlantic water and high prices for on-site refreshments are common drawbacks.

"Peaceful Beach ⛱️. I also like the fact that there is parking across the road."

Nothando Hlatshwako

"Bring your own food and drinks so you don't get charged 65 Rand for a single can of Coke. That’s $3.55 vs 15 Rand, ¢ 0.82, at the store. 🥤🍉🍿"

Rashid

"Beautiful and clean beach Not overcrowded . Beautiful view during sunset"

Tshimangadzo Mukoma

What People Like

Beautiful white sand
Clear blue waters
Stunning sunset views

What People Dislike

Very cold water
Expensive vendor prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Clifton Beaches by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. The drive from the city center is approximately 15-20 minutes. Public transport options are limited, so a taxi or Uber is often the most convenient. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available across the road from the beaches, particularly at Clifton 4th Beach. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is recommended. Reddit

While direct public transport to the beaches is limited, you can take a MyCiTi bus towards Camps Bay and then walk or take a short taxi ride to Clifton. It's advisable to check MyCiTi bus routes and schedules in advance. TikTok

The distance between Clifton and Camps Bay is short, making it easy to walk along the coast or take a quick taxi or Uber ride. Many visitors enjoy strolling between the two areas. TikTok

Yes, it is generally considered safe to visit Clifton 4th Beach at sunrise. You'll often find other early risers already in the water or on the beach. The sun rises behind the mountain, so it takes a while for the beach to be fully illuminated. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Clifton Beaches is free. You only pay for parking if you drive and for any food or drinks you purchase from vendors. Reddit

Clifton Beaches are open 24/7, as they are public spaces. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

No, you cannot book or reserve specific spots on Clifton Beaches. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early is the best way to secure a good location. Reddit

There are no entrance fees for general beach access, swimming, or sunbathing. Activities like renting beach chairs or umbrellas might incur a fee from private vendors. Reddit

To avoid crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially during the summer months. Early mornings before 9 AM are usually quietest. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire stretch of Clifton Beaches offers stunning photographic opportunities. Focus on the white sand, clear blue water, and the iconic granite boulders. The views from the boardwalks and the surrounding hills are also spectacular. TikTok

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most magical light for photography. Sunsets are particularly dramatic over the Atlantic Ocean. TikTok

Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography at Clifton Beaches. However, professional photoshoots or commercial filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other beachgoers' privacy. Reddit

Expect to capture beautiful beach landscapes, people enjoying the sun and sea, dramatic sunsets, and the unique rock formations. Drone photography might be restricted, so check local regulations. TikTok

The distinct granite boulders scattered along the beaches are a signature feature. The contrast between the white sand, turquoise water, and these rocks makes for striking images. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes directly on the sand of Clifton Beaches. However, you'll find numerous dining options in the nearby areas of Camps Bay and Sea Point. TikTok

Prices for food and drinks from beach vendors can be quite high. For example, a can of Coke might cost around 65 Rand, significantly more than at a local store. Reddit

The most budget-friendly and practical approach is to bring your own cooler bag filled with food and drinks from a local supermarket. Reddit

Yes, the neighboring suburb of Camps Bay is renowned for its upscale restaurants and cafes with ocean views. Sea Point also offers a wide variety of dining establishments. TikTok

Absolutely! Clifton Beaches are perfect for picnics. Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended due to the cost of vendor items. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Clifton 4th Beach is the most family-friendly due to its accessibility and calmer atmosphere. While the water is cold, kids often enjoy playing in the sand and building sandcastles. It's crucial to bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as vendor prices are high. Reddit Consider bringing beach toys and ensuring constant supervision due to the ocean's currents. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Clifton Beaches are free to enter, making them an attractive option. The key to a budget-friendly visit is to pack your own food and drinks from a local supermarket to avoid the inflated prices at beach vendors. Reddit Opt for public transport or ride-sharing over taxis if possible, and enjoy the natural beauty without spending a fortune. TikTok

💖 Couples

Clifton Beaches offer a romantic setting, especially during sunset. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a serene evening watching the sky transform. While the water is cold, a brisk dip can be invigorating. TikTok Consider a stay in one of the luxurious bungalows for a truly special experience. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Four Clifton Beaches

Clifton is renowned for its four distinct beaches, each offering a slightly different vibe: Clifton 1st Beach, Clifton 2nd Beach, Clifton 3rd Beach, and Clifton 4th Beach. While all share the same stunning white sand and clear, albeit cold, Atlantic waters, they cater to different preferences. Clifton 1st Beach is often favored by surfers and is generally quieter, while 4th Beach is the most popular and accessible, often bustling with activity and families. TikTok

Many locals prefer the quieter atmosphere of 1st or 3rd Beach for a more relaxed experience, away from the main tourist crowds often found at 4th Beach. Reddit The choice often depends on whether you're seeking a lively atmosphere or a peaceful escape. Regardless of which you choose, the iconic granite boulders and the dramatic ocean backdrop remain consistent across all four. TikTok

It's worth noting that the wind can be a factor, and sometimes one beach might be more sheltered than another. Checking local wind conditions can help you pick the perfect spot for your day. Reddit

Experiencing Clifton's Natural Beauty

The natural beauty of Clifton Beaches is undeniable. The contrast of the powdery white sand against the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean, framed by rugged granite boulders, creates a picturesque scene. Even though the water is famously cold, many visitors are drawn to its refreshing clarity and the opportunity for a brisk swim. Reddit

Beyond sunbathing and swimming, Clifton offers opportunities for water sports. While not as renowned for surfing as some other Cape Town beaches, conditions can be suitable for experienced surfers, especially at 1st Beach. Kayaking is also a popular activity, offering a unique perspective of the coastline. Reddit

The sunset views from Clifton are legendary. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky often explodes in a riot of colors, casting a warm glow over the ocean and the surrounding landscape. This makes Clifton a prime spot for romantic evenings or simply enjoying nature's spectacle. TikTok

Accommodation and Local Stays

For those looking to immerse themselves in the Clifton experience, accommodation options range from luxurious villas to stylish apartments. The area is known for its exclusive bungalows and high-end rentals, offering breathtaking sea views and direct beach access. TikTok

Many visitors opt for Airbnbs or boutique hotels in the Clifton area to be close to the beaches and enjoy the upscale coastal lifestyle. The proximity to other popular Cape Town attractions, like Camps Bay and the city center, makes Clifton a strategic base for exploring the region. TikTok

When searching for accommodation, keywords like 'bungalow Capetown' or 'Airbnb Clifton Beach Cape Town' can yield excellent results for those seeking a premium stay. TikTok

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