Magnificent beaches, stunning homes and a vibrant social scene make these Atlantic Seaboard suburbs the perfect destination for a short break or holiday.
The suburbs of Camps Bay and Clifton conjure up images of watching the glittering ocean from the balcony of a beachside mansion and the majestic mountain views of Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles. These two beautiful areas are, understandably, home to some of the most sought-after real estate in the country. With white sandy beaches, palm trees, mellow cafes and stunning homes, Camps Bay and Clifton are the perfect places to spend a long weekend or holiday.
Aside from the stunning scenery that Camps Bay and Clifton are known for, it’s the lifestyle that keeps the areas buzzing all year-round. The vibe is festive, friendly and laid-back – exactly what you would expect from a beachside holiday. There are endless activities to keep you busy from morning until night, or the early hours of the morning if you’re in the mood.
Start your day with a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean, then walk along the vibrant main roads to enjoy breakfast at one of the many fine restaurants nearby. You can have everything from a freshly squeezed organic fruit juice to the heartiest and meatiest breakfasts. Naturally, the beach is the main attraction of the two areas but, as Camps Bay resident Tim Scudamore says, “There are great hiking trails. I take my dogs on the Pipe Track and you can go up to Lion’s Head. There are really good sports clubs – from football to cricket, squash and tennis – there’s a lifesaving club and, of course, the surfing. Really, you’ve got everything but a golf course here.”
While there are many things to do if you want to be active, there are perhaps even more options for when you want to relax and be a little self-indulgent. You can lounge or picnic on one of Clifton’s four beaches, Camps Bay Beach or the more secluded Glen Beach. If you want to treat yourself, you can visit The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa for five-star luxury. If you’d like to venture outside of your beachside haven, the whole of Cape Town is within your reach – the city centre is just 6km away.
Camps Bay and Clifton are ideal for all ages, whether you’re a couple or a large group of family and friends. You’ll never regret a getaway here; it’s a holiday that will be remembered fondly for years to come. Soon you’ll find yourself wondering how to become a permanent resident, because with the warmth, the hum of activity, the fresh sea air, beautiful beaches and breath-taking mountains surrounding you, anything seems possible.
I come to Camps Bay almost every year, and I can’t get enough. It’s without a doubt one of the best places on earth.
-Johan Smit, Gauteng resident.
Where to eat in Clifton and Camps Bay
- The Bungalow: for amazing seafood
- The Hussar Grill: for mouth-watering steaks
- La Parada Camps Bay: for cocktails and tapas in a chic setting
- Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas: for world-class international wines and a comprehensive offering of tapas
- Mantra Cafe: for fresh, simple food made with the finest ingredients
- Zenzero: for Italian fare with flair
- La Belle Bistro and Bakery: for baked goods and light meals
- The Rumbullion at The Roundhouse: for contemporary European meals with a South African twist
- The Leopard Bar at The Twelve Apostles: for sundowners with a stunning view
Things to do in Clifton and Camps Bay:
- Walk, play, sunbathe and surf on the white sand beaches.
- Hike the mountain trails and the Pipe Track.
- Enjoy world-class entertainment at Theatre on the Bay.
- Have sundowners at one of the many beachside bars and restaurants.
Where to stay in Clifton and Camps Bay:
- Cape View, Clifton
- San Michele, Clifton
- 21 Nettleton, Clifton
- Primi Royal, Camps Bay
- The Crystal Apartments, Camps Bay
- Oudekraal Lodge, Camps Bay
- South Beach Camps Bay
- The Bay Hotel, Camps Bay
- The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, Camps Bay
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
Find out more about the neighbourhood here:
