Clifton is the jewel of Cape Town's Atlantic Seaboard: four white-sand beaches tucked between granite boulders, sheltered from the wind, and backed by some of the most exclusive homes in South Africa. If you want calm, swimmable coves and a quieter, more private base than neighbouring Camps Bay, Clifton is where to stay. Here is the full guide.
Why stay in Clifton
Clifton's defining feature is its four beaches, known simply as First, Second, Third and Fourth. The granite boulders between them block the southeaster wind that can sweep other parts of the coast, which makes Clifton the most sheltered and swimmable stretch of the Atlantic Seaboard. The water is still cold, this is the Atlantic, but the calm, protected bays are the best place on this coast for a proper beach day.
Above the beaches, homes climb the slope in tiers, almost all of them oriented for sweeping sea views. It is exclusive, quiet and beautifully private, a short walk or drive from the restaurants of Camps Bay, but a world away in atmosphere.
The four beaches
- First Beach is the largest and least crowded, popular with surfers and those after a little more space.
- Second Beach is relaxed and roomy, a favourite for sunbathing.
- Third Beach is quieter and known as one of the most welcoming and inclusive.
- Fourth Beach is the busiest and most family-friendly, with the easiest access, nearby shops and a Blue Flag rating.
All four are reached by steps down from Victoria Road, so pack light for the walk down and back up.
Where to eat and drink
Clifton itself is residential and has little in the way of restaurants, which is part of its appeal. For dining you are a few minutes from the Camps Bay strip to the south and the restaurants of Sea Point and Bantry Bay to the north, so you get seclusion at home and choice nearby. Many visitors bring sundowners down to the beach for the sunset, which is spectacular here.
Things to do nearby
- Maiden's Cove, between Clifton and Camps Bay, has tidal pools and picnic spots.
- Lion's Head rises directly above for one of the city's finest hikes.
- Camps Bay's restaurants and bars are minutes away.
- Table Mountain and the city are a short, scenic drive.
Who Clifton suits
Stay in Clifton if your priority is beach days with shelter from the wind, privacy, and a calm, upmarket setting. It suits couples, sun-seekers and anyone who wants seclusion without being far from the buzz. If you would rather be right on a restaurant strip, Camps Bay next door is a better fit. For the best value on the coast, look at Sea Point.
Veida Properties manages a small, curated selection of Clifton homes with direct beach access and floor-to-ceiling sea views. See our current Atlantic Seaboard stays for availability.
Clifton FAQs
Which Clifton beach is best?
Fourth Beach is the easiest to access and most family-friendly, while First Beach is the quietest and most spacious. All four are sheltered and beautiful.
Is Clifton or Camps Bay better?
Clifton is quieter, more private and has calmer, more sheltered beaches. Camps Bay is livelier with restaurants and bars on the beachfront. They are minutes apart, so many visitors enjoy both.
Can you swim at Clifton?
Yes, the sheltered bays are the best swimming on the Atlantic Seaboard, though the water stays cold year-round.
