Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Clifton Beach, South Africa






The highlight of Cape Town's glamour spots, Clifton lies between Sea Point and Camps Bay. Clifton's famous four beaches are the ideal hangout for beach lovers.

The four small and beautiful beaches of Clifton are interlinked, with giant granite boulders dividing one from the next. Each individual sandy enclave has its own peculiar identity.

4th Beach is the busiest, with the young and the beautiful playing volleyball, throwing frisbees and sunbathing - but mostly trying to look cool. 3rd Beach is frequented by the gay population of Cape Town, while 2nd Beach is the sunning spot of the young bohemians and university students of the city. 1st Beach is the least popular (but no less beautiful) than the other three.

Clifton is wonderfully sheltered from summer's south-easterly wind, but not many people actually brave the cold water. Yachts, speed boats and jet skis come and play in the bay and it has the atmosphere, if not the warm water, of a Mediterranean resort. Some of the most expensive property in South Africa and some of the finest beaches to be found anywhere, are right here at Clifton.

The Clifton Beaches are great for a day with the kids, and superb for sundowners and evening picnics. But go prepared. Take warm clothes, candles for after sunset and lots of goodies to snack on. Alcohol is not allowed on the beaches so stock up on the cold-drinks and fruit juices.

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