Clifton beach

Clifton Beach is actually a series of four distinct beaches separated by boulders. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It has the reputation of being the place to see and be seen.

There is a long flight of stairs leading down to the beach from the main road.  Probably the best thing about this beach is that it is somewhat sheltered from the Cape winds.

The beaches consist of…….

First Beach Clifton

is popular for water sports; the surf is very strong here, diminishing towards Fourth Beach.

Friends Who Volley is a weekly event on Thursdays at Clifton 1st Beach with volleyball games, sunsets and live music during the summer months. Playing volleyball is free.

Dogs are allowed without a leash on Clifton 1st

Second Beach Clifton

Attracts students who play games such as volleyball and beach bats.

Third Beach Clifton

is the smallest beach and is popular with gay culture. Topless tanning is allowed

Fourth Beach Clifton

Fourth Beach has Blue flag status and is the most glamorous and populated beach. Well-maintained restrooms and lifeguards on duty.  4th Beach was recently honoured in the Golden Beach Awards 2024. Access to the beach is via a series of steps leading down from Victoria Road

Rent a kayak at Clifton Fourth (when conditions are good) and paddle out on the water. (No booking). There are also 1.5-hour guided kayak trips in the mornings, 082 531 3531 W/A

Dogs are allowed on 4th Beach before 9.00 am and after 6.00 pm between November and April

Clifton Beach swim:

Swimmers cover approximately one nautical mile. Meet at the 4th beach, on the first Sunday of every month. Swim starts at 09h15 from September to April and 10h15 from June to August

There is a fifth beach, called Moses Beach, named for the papyrus plants that grow along it, which appears and disappears as the sand is deposited or stripped by the wind and waves. In the winter, the Northwester strips the sand, which is re-deposited during summer South Easter when the sand piles back up.  The water, however, is very cold indeed.

Facilities include Outdoor showers, a kiosk with snacks, umbrellas and sun lounger rentals. Toilets are at Fourth Beach. Parking is limited, so it is advisable to arrive early. Alternatively, you can catch the My Citi bus; there is a stop close by.

 Information boards and community programs highlight local marine ecosystems, reminding visitors to enjoy the beach responsibly.

Check the tides here

Sea temperature here

Best beaches in the Western Cape article

Updated October 2025