Clifton beach

Clifton beach, on the Atlantic Seaboard is arguably Cape Town’s most well known beach. It is made up of 4 coves, commonly known as Clifton 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th beaches. Clifton 4th is the largest and most popular. The beaches are accessible via stairs leading down from the road above. There are approximately 120 stairs leading down. The beaches are generally sheltered from the South Easter, a summer prevailing wind that can wreak havoc in Cape Town. With their fine white sand, large granite boulders and blue, blue sea, the beaches of Clifton make an inviting picture.

 

 

flickr image by Charlie Dave
Clifton 4th beach has blue flag status. It has changing rooms and bathroom facilities and there are lifeguards in attendance. Vendors sell ice creams, cold drinks and snacks. Umbrellas and sun loungers are available for hire. The water is very, very cold, fed by the icy Benguela sea current that runs up the West coast of Africa originating from the Antarctic.

On Friday evenings in summer, the Clifton Life Saving club holds a paddling time trial in the bay. Many people come to Clifton in the evenings to picnic and watch the sunset over the water. Clifton is host to a Full Moon music concert in summer. It is good to note that no alcohol is allowed on the beach.