Clifton Beach, South Africa: A Guide to Hotels and Accommodation

Nov 08, 2025 0

With almost five million people calling Cape Town home, it’s easy to see why tourists arrive and often decide to stay. Cape Town boasts a mesmerizing coastline dotted with striking mountain ranges that jet into the sea. Clifton is an affluent suburb of Cape Town, located on the Atlantic Seaboard in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It is known for its pristine beaches, luxurious homes, and breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.

In Clifton, you’ll find mansions and luxury hotels perched at the base of Lion’s Head, overlooking Clifton Beach. The beach is divided into four parts: the first, second, third, and fourth. Between Lions Head and the Atlantic Ocean, Clifton offers a residential escape with breathtaking sea views. The area is renowned for its four distinct beaches, sheltered from the South Easter wind. Yachts grace Fourth Beach during summer sunsets, and its Blue Flag status attests to safety and tourist standards.

Clifton is perhaps best known for its four beautiful beaches, each with its unique character and appeal. These beaches are some of the most popular in Cape Town and are a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

Clifton’s unique hillside location limits buildable space, resulting in exclusive villas and beachfront apartments. The scenic road hugs the mountain's rocky feet and gently meanders along the coast towards Clifton Beach, with its four sandy inlets. This is a very popular suburb, and visitors should plan an early start in order to find not only parking, but also a sunbathing spot on one of these world-famous sandy beaches.

Clifton Beach Activities

Explore the diverse activities that Clifton has to offer, from water activities to viewing Clifton right in front of you to right below you. Take on an exhilarating kayaking adventure with Kayak Clifton, starting at Clifton 4th Beach. Begin by meeting your guide, signing the necessary forms, and gearing up with a portable floating device.

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Opt for a single or double kayak, equipped with a waterproof phone case for convenience. As you glide from Clifton 4th Beach to Clifton 1st Beach, view the natural beauty while learning snippets about Clifton’s history and the luxurious accommodations gracing the mountainside. Encounter a charming seal colony near Clifton 4th Beach, and on the Maiden’s Cove side, explore kelp forests and intriguing rock pools. Use diving masks for a glimpse beneath the water’s surface.

Go on a breathtaking scenic drive through Clifton, starting with the enchanting Victoria Avenue at the side of Little Lion’s Head over Hout Bay Nek. As the coastal road unfolds, especially during the mesmerizing sundown, it unveils an indescribable beauty with a variety of colours. Feel the freedom to pause and take in the awe-inspiring views whenever and wherever you desire along the way.

The drive creates a symphony of coastal settings, each stop offering a unique perspective of the natural wonders that stretch the Atlantic coastline.

Try out stand-up paddleboarding adventure with Ocean Riders, with offices located at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Offering exceptional lessons and board rentals, Ocean Riders provides a secure environment for practising and refining your paddleboarding skills. Whether you opt for group lessons at the Waterfront to explore the beauty of Clifton Beach, Ocean Riders accommodate various preferences.

Private lessons are also available in different locations, ensuring a personalized approach to your paddleboarding experience. This fabulously fun sport not only engages your core muscles but also offers a delightful opportunity to appreciate the magnificent scenery surrounding you. Paddleboarding has become increasingly popular among surfers and non-surfers alike, making it an inclusive and enjoyable activity suitable for individuals of all ages.

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Head to the V&A Waterfront Helipad and check in 15 to 20 minutes before your shared helicopter flight over the city and coast. Receive a safety briefing upon arrival, then wait to board your flight at the beautiful flight deck. Climb aboard and kick off your adventure with a complete circle around Table Mountain.

Traverse over the city, spotting Cape Town Stadium, a 2010 World Cup venue, and then follow the Atlantic Ocean coast, passing Signal Hill, Camps Bay, and Clifton Beach. Gain bird’s eye views of luxury homes and marvel at the Twelve Apostles mountains.

The Four Beaches of Clifton

Discover one of the main attractions of Cape Town’s beaches, starting with Clifton’s renowned variety of beaches, each catering to different interests and needs. During the bustling summer months, finding parking can be a challenge, with locals and tourists vying for spots. The streets become packed with enthusiastic beachgoers, making it advisable to opt for Uber or Taxi services whenever possible.

Clifton is perhaps best known for its four beautiful beaches, each with its unique character and appeal. These beaches are some of the most popular in Cape Town and are a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike. The First, Second, Third, and Fourth beaches of Clifton Cape Town are separated by giant granite boulders, each offering a slightly different vibe. From the more laid-back First Beach to the lively and social Fourth Beach, there is the perfect beach for everyone in Clifton Cape Town! The Clifton beaches are sheltered from Cape Town’s famous winds, making them ideal almost year-round.

Clifton 1st is known as a peaceful escape and a bit of a workout, requiring a climb up several staircases before reaching the white sandy beach. This quiet haven allows visitors to relish the freedom of walking their dogs off-leash, witnessing spectacular sunsets, and soaking in the laid-back beach vibes.
Clifton 2nd, bustling with youthful energy, attracts a vibrant crowd and is a hub of activity. Popular among the younger generation, this beach is a hotspot for students perfecting their bikini tan, surfers catching waves, and sporty beachgoers engaging in lively games of beach volleyball, frisbee, and beach bats.
Clifton 3rd, often known as the “gay beach” of Cape Town, is a hotspot attracting a lively crowd. While it holds a reputation for its vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere, the beach is open and welcoming to everyone, exuding a trendy and buzzing vibe. Comparatively less crowded than Clifton 2nd, it remains an ideal spot for sunbathing, offering an atmosphere that is equally perfect for catching a tan as the other beaches. Clifton 3rd is not just about sun and sand; it’s also a venue for various scheduled events, from Silent Disco gatherings to mesmerizing fire dances and other captivating shows.
Clifton 4th stands as the most popular and expansive beach in the Clifton selection of beaches, welcoming individuals of all ages and families. Here, the young ones can indulge in building sand castles, while the youth engage in lively beach games. Swimmers and sun-seekers, irrespective of age, find a perfect haven for relaxation and recreation. Fourth Beach proudly holds the coveted Blue Flag status, an international recognition reserved for beaches that excel in cleanliness, safety, amenities, and environmentally conscious initiatives.

Where to Eat in Clifton

The Bungalow and Eatery Clifton are two popular restaurants in Clifton, each offering a unique dining experience.

The Bungalow, located on Clifton’s beachfront, is a restaurant known for its Mediterranean-style cuisine and cocktails. With stunning views of the Twelve Apostles, Lion’s Head, and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique beachside experience. Praised for its laidback luxury, The Bungalow stands as a standalone icon within the famous Clifton area, encouraging visitors to seamlessly transition from the beach to its timeless atmosphere.
Clifton Eatery takes pride in its focus on both local and global flavours, creating a fusion of refreshments in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Once entering you will find a remodelled shipping container which is a symbol of the café’s commitment to creating a welcoming space where visitors are greeted by friendly faces exuding warmth and charm. Adding a personal touch to the coffee experience is Aldridge, the maestro of beans and brews, emphasizing quality and a genuine connection with each cup served.

The Bungalow Restaurant in Clifton

Accommodation Options in Clifton

Stay around and enjoy the beauty of Clifton for a bit longer by booking a stay in one of the many luxurious accommodations in Clifton. From sprawling contemporary villas fitted with all the mod-cons to cosier, character-filled cottages, our Clifton accommodation caters to all. Whether you are travelling with the whole family, young children, a group of friends, or simply your beloved, we’ve got the perfect Clifton beach house to suit your needs.

Our collection of Cape Town beach houses offers privacy, luxury, and a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking views in South Africa. Staying at our Cape Town beach houses means you are perfectly positioned to explore the very best of Cape Town. A short drive brings you to Camps Bay, with its buzzing promenade of restaurants and bars, or head into the City Bowl for art galleries, museums, and boutique shopping.

Undeniably, the greatest thing about our Clifton beach houses is their close proximity to the beach - in fact, many of our villas are positioned mere steps away from the white sand! No need to waste time packing a beach bag and trying to get a good spot; simply wander down the steps and voila.

Here are a few notable accommodations in Clifton:

Clifton Ezulwini offers a luxurious seaside retreat in Cape Town, South Africa, emphasizing privacy, security, and high-quality service. Situated above Clifton 2nd Beach, it provides exclusive accommodations, including a sophisticated Villa with ocean-matched furnishings, an intimate Apartment with stunning sea views for couples, and a lavish Penthouse close to beautiful beaches and fine-dining restaurants. The five-star service includes discreet assistance, dedicated staff, and high-level equipment for a quality experience. The central location allows convenient exploration of the surroundings, and the accommodation guarantees privacy and security.
The Clifton Bungalow offers a prime seaside stay situated on Clifton Fourth Beach, providing sweeping views of the sea. Just a mere 20 steps away from the pristine white sandy beach, this stylish and modern four-bedroom bungalow is fully equipped with modern conveniences. Adding to the allure, the bungalow features a pool on the upper deck, inviting guests to enjoy a sundowner, an al-fresco meal, or simply relax and soak up the sun.
21 Nettleton, a luxury boutique hotel in Clifton, offers a distinctive and exclusive experience with only six rooms, prioritizing complete privacy and personalized experiences. The accommodations at 21 Nettleton are thoughtfully designed to ensure utmost privacy and exclusivity. With just six rooms, including the Presidential Penthouse with a king-sized bed and 360-degree ocean views, each space is adorned with bespoke art, antique furniture, and luxurious furnishings. The individual suites, named Steinway, Emperor, Queen, and King, provide a range of features and sizes, delivering a tailored and lavish experience for every guest. Going beyond typical hotel offerings, 21 Nettleton provides exclusive experiences solely for in-house guests, such as golden sunsets, panoramic views, outdoor massages, and intimate garden dinners.

Here are some other accommodation options to consider:

Beyond Villa - A Luxurious 6-Bedroom Masterpiece with Stunning Clifton Views
Villa Obsidian - Architectural Masterpiece Overlooking Clifton Beach
Beach Daze - 4-Bedroom Villa on Clifton 4th Beach
Kaldene: 5-Bedroom Clifton Beach House
Casa Palmera: Stunning Villa Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean
Rock Villa: Your Luxurious Clifton 3rd Beach House
Clifton Charm: Discover the Ultimate Beachfront Getaway
Clifton Wixy: Clifton 3rd Beach House
Seahaven: Clifton 3rd Beach House
Stunning Clifton beach house with swimming pool
Clifton Azure: A Premier Clifton Beach House
Clifton Sunsets: Luxurious Beachfront Villa
Stunning 3-Bedroom Clifton Beach House
Clifton Beach Villa - Beautiful Villa on Clifton 1st Beach
San Michele: A Luxurious 2 Bedroom Clifton Apartment
Clifton Breeze: Family Villa with Ocean View
Clifton Serenity: Cape Town Beach House on Clifton 2nd
The Abalone: 3-Bedroom Apartment Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean
Luxury Clifton Beach Apartment - A Newly Renovated 3-Bedroom Haven
Experience Luxury at Clifton Ezulwini Penthouse
Clifton Classic - Apartment with Breathtaking Ocean Views
Clifton Calm - Classically Beautiful Apartment with Beautiful Ocean Views

Additional Hotel Options Near Clifton Beach

If you're looking for hotels in nearby areas, consider these options:

POD Camps Bay: A 5-star boutique hotel ideally situated in the heart of Camps Bay.
Camps Bay Retreat: Ideally situated overlooking Camps Bay, this is an eclectic and charming four-star hotel that offers a mix of traditional ocean-view rooms and small jungle bungalows tucked away in the forest but still overlooking the sea.
Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa: This family-friendly hotel in Oudekraal is close to Camps Bay Beach and Table Mountain.
Sea Star Rocks: This upscale Art Deco guesthouse near Camps Bay Beach features guestrooms with balconies and incredible ocean views.
The Bay Hotel: This beach spa retreat is within walking distance of Camps Bay Beach and a short drive from Clifton Bay Beach.

Tips for Visiting Clifton Beach

While the area is certainly known for its high-end lifestyle and exclusive real estate, it is also home to a diverse community of residents and visitors from all walks of life. During peak tourist season the beaches can become overcrowded and the traffic can be overwhelming. The area remains a vibrant and thriving community, offering a unique glimpse into the best of what Cape Town has to offer.

Q - Which Clifton Beach is the best?
A - Among the four beautiful beaches in Clifton, Clifton 4th Beach is often considered the best.

Q - Where is Clifton located?
A - Clifton is a neighbourhood situated along the Atlantic Seaboard in Cape Town, South Africa.

Q - Where is Clifton Beach?
A - Clifton Beach is part of the Clifton neighbourhood in Cape Town, South Africa. It is located on the western side of the Cape Peninsula, located between Sea Point and Camps Bay.

Clifton is one of the most beautiful and sought-after neighbourhoods in Cape Town, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and luxury amenities. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, or simply enjoy the stunning natural scenery, there is something for everyone.