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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas, fewer crowds
Clifton Beaches Cape Town
Best Time
Calm seas, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Four pristine white-sand beaches in Cape Town, famous for their clear, cold Atlantic waters and spectacular sunset views.
"The most beautiful beaches in Cape Town, despite the cold water!"
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clifton 4th Beach
Clifton
The most popular and accessible of the four, perfect for sunbathing and people-watching.

Clifton 3rd Beach
Clifton
A more tranquil spot, often favored by locals and known for its beautiful 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
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited, especially on Clifton 4th Beach. Get there early to secure a spot.
Respect Local Etiquette
Be mindful of noise levels and local customs.
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.
Embrace the Cold Water
The Atlantic is bracing! Be prepared for a refreshing dip.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited, especially on Clifton 4th Beach. Get there early to secure a spot.
Respect Local Etiquette
Be mindful of noise levels and local customs.
Capture the Sunset Magic
The sunsets here are legendary. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Clifton Beaches are open 24/7, as they are public spaces. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
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.
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.
To avoid crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially during the summer months. Early mornings before 9 AM are usually quietest.
📸 📸 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.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most magical light for photography. Sunsets are particularly dramatic over the Atlantic Ocean.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
The most budget-friendly and practical approach is to bring your own cooler bag filled with food and drinks from a local supermarket.
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.
Absolutely! Clifton Beaches are perfect for picnics. Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended due to the cost of vendor items.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Four Clifton Beaches
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. 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.
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.
Experiencing Clifton's Natural Beauty
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.
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.
Accommodation and Local Stays
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.
When searching for accommodation, keywords like 'bungalow Capetown' or 'Airbnb Clifton Beach Cape Town' can yield excellent results for those seeking a premium stay.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit