Clifton

Atlantic Seaboard
Cape Town Clifton Area

About Clifton

Famed for its white sands and pristine sparkling waters, Clifton is Cape Town’s very own French Riviera. Surrounded by Luxurious bungalows and fabulous penthouses, it is one of the most prestigious suburbs of the Atlantic Seaboard.

Clifton’s four beaches are like no other. Reminiscent of the sandy bays of a tropical island millions of miles away, Clifton gives the illusion of an island escape with the convenience of everyday amenities just a few minutes away. While the crisp, aquamarine waters and inviting white sands are as seductive as ever, the temperature is chilly no matter what time of the year you visit. This said however, the sheer natural beauty is enough to tempt even the most timid swimmers into the waters.

Also known as Cape Town’s Millionaire’s Row, Clifton is nestled between Camps Bay and Bantry Bay and boasts some of the most expensive residential properties in the vicinity. With the tourist attractions of the V & A Waterfront, the panoramic views of the Atlantic Seaboard and the easy access to the CBD, it’s the ideal destination for the discerning traveller.

Clifton has a reputation as Cape Town’s trend set and is a haven for international jet setters. Bronzing bodies and designer sunglasses relaxing on Clifton’s pristine white beaches in front of the glistening Atlantic Ocean make Clifton’s glamorous the beach to be. Clifton’s upmarket suburb is located just outside Bantry Bay, between Sea Point and Camps Bay, in one of Table Mountain’s most beautiful settings.

This area’s beaches are divided into four distinct coves by stretches of granite rocks and, although they may not be very creatively named 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th, their beauty makes names irrelevant. Each beach is reached by a flight of stairs down the road, but be wary parking your car can be sometimes difficult. This does not discourage the crowds during peak season or in the evening when throngs of people go down to Clifton to enjoy the legendary sunsets and sundowners in Cape Town.

The four beaches are well protected from the notorious south-easterly and, whilst there is the occasional wave, most simply lap at the shoreline. Staying here often has the added bonus of quiet evenings as the crowds tend to head down the road to Camps Bay’s many restaurants, clubs and bars.

Click here to see all our Clifton villas and beachfront apartments

Things to Do in Clifton

Clifton's Four Beaches

Relax on 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Beach, separated by granite boulders and sheltered from the wind. 4th Beach holds Blue Flag status.

Sunset Picnics

Pack a picnic and watch the sun set over the Atlantic from the sand.

Boat Cruises

Join a sunset cruise or private yacht charter for spectacular views of Clifton from the water.

Lion's Head

Hike Lion's Head, which rises directly above Clifton.

Camps Bay Restaurants

Enjoy the restaurants and bars of Camps Bay, just a short drive along Victoria Road.

Beach Volleyball

Join the lively beach volleyball and paddle-ball scene on 3rd and 4th Beach.

Frequently Asked Questions about Clifton

Clifton is home to some of the most expensive real estate in Africa, with luxury villas perched on the cliffs above four of Cape Town’s most beautiful beaches.

Yes. Clifton’s beaches are well protected from the summer south-easterly wind, making them some of the most pleasant in Cape Town.

The beaches are reached by steps down from Victoria Road. Many of our Clifton properties offer direct or very close access.

4th Beach is the most family friendly and has Blue Flag status. 3rd Beach is lively and popular with a younger crowd, while 1st and 2nd Beach are smaller and quieter.

Clifton is about 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre and 10 minutes from the V&A Waterfront.