Clifton - Cape Town's Exclusive Suburb
Unlike its busier neighbour, Camps Bay, Clifton is a quiet, purely residential retreat. It's the kind of place where the only thing on your "to-do" list is deciding which of the four iconic beaches to walk to and where to watch the sunset from your private terrace.
Why is Clifton worth visiting?
If you're looking for soft sand, turquoise water, and a home-away-from-home that actually rivals your dreams, Clifton is the place to be. Often compared to the French Riviera, this affluent suburb is built into the cliffs, giving almost every property a front-row seat to the Atlantic Ocean.
Whether you're after a chic apartment for a weekend getaway or a sprawling villa for the whole family, Clifton's holiday rentals offer total privacy and unmatched views. It's the kind of place where you can start your morning with a beach walk and end it with a sundowner on your private terrace.
Luxury Accommodation in Clifton
We've curated a selection of some of the best apartments in the area so you can live like a local (a very lucky local). Perfect for couples, smaller families or solo travellers who want easy access to the beach and the nearby nightlife of Camps Bay.
The Four Beaches of Clifton
1st Beach
The local favourite for surfers and volleyball players. It's a bit more active and has a great community feel.
2nd & 3rd Beach
These are the spots to see and be seen. Popular with the younger crowd and a long-standing favourite for the LGBTQ+ community, these beaches are all about sunbathing and socialising.
4th Beach
The most famous of the four and a proud Blue Flag beach. It's perfect for families, featuring well-maintained changing rooms, toilets, and kiosks for snacks.
Things to Do in and Around Clifton
While Clifton is a quiet residential pocket, you're never far from the action.
Beach Life
You can hire umbrellas and deck chairs on the sand, and lifeguards are on duty during weekends and peak holiday seasons.
Yacht Cruises
For a different perspective, book a catamaran from the V&A Waterfront. Most cruises anchor in Clifton's calm waters, allowing you to swim off the deck in style.
Dining Out
Clifton is home to The Bungalow, a stunning restaurant with panoramic views. For more variety, a two-minute drive takes you to the vibrant "strip" in Camps Bay, or a ten-minute Uber puts you in the heart of Sea Point or the City Bowl.
When is The Best Time to Visit clifton?
Clifton is a year-round destination, but it truly shines in the summer (December to March) when the days are long and the Atlantic breeze is refreshing. Autumn (April and May) is a hidden gem season—the wind drops, the crowds thin out, and the sunsets turn a deep, fiery orange. Even in winter, the dramatic stormy seas make for a cosy retreat in a fireside apartment.
Ready to start planning your trip? Find the answers to your travel-related questions in our handy, one-stop Cape Town holiday planning hub – complete with info-packed guides and resources that will make planning your visit a breeze.
FAQs About Clifton
Which Clifton beach is best for families?
4th Beach is the winner here. It has the best facilities, the calmest water for a dip, and it's a designated Blue Flag beach, meaning it meets top international standards for safety and cleanliness.
Is there parking in Clifton?
In a word: tricky! Parking on Victoria Road is very limited, especially in the summer. We always recommend our guests use Uber or a private driver to get to the beach to avoid the hunt for a parking spot.
Are the beaches wind-protected?
Yes! This is Clifton's biggest drawcard. The cliffs and boulders provide a natural shield from the summer winds, making it the most comfortable beach in Cape Town on a breezy day.
Is Clifton safe?
Very. As one of the most prestigious areas in South Africa, Clifton is very well-patrolled and has a very active community security presence. You can visit the Clifton CID for more.
Can you walk to shops from Clifton?
Clifton is purely residential to maintain its quiet charm. For groceries or a coffee run, a quick 5-minute drive will take you into either Camps Bay or Sea Point.
