Clifton Beaches

Clifton is four coves in a row, known simply as First to Fourth, cut off from each other by outcrops of granite boulders that also shelter them from the south-easter - which is the reason they are usable on days when Camps Bay is being sandblasted. Each has acquired a character: Fourth is the largest and the family beach with the easiest access, Third has long been the gay beach, Second draws students, First is the quietest and hardest to reach. All four are reached down long flights of steps from Victoria Road, and there is nothing at the bottom - no shops, and vendors rather than facilities - so whatever you want has to be carried down and back up. The water is Atlantic and cold. The sand is unusually fine and white, and the sunsets from the boulders are the reason people stay late.

What you actually see

• Four separate coves - divided by granite outcrops, each with its own crowd.
• Wind shelter - the boulders block the south-easter that ruins other beaches.
• The stairways - long flights down from the road, and back up afterwards.
• Fine white sand - unusually clean and pale for the peninsula.

When to go

November to March. Half a day, staying for sunset. Weekday mornings for space.

Honest expectations

The water is very cold - short swims only. There are no facilities at beach level and everything must be carried. Parking on Victoria Road is severely limited and often means a long walk. The stairs are hard going with children or coolers.

Nearby

Camps Bay is south; Sea Point promenade runs north.