Turquoise water beckons. That’s the magic of Fourth Beach. It is the gem of Clifton’s four beaches in Cape Town.
Fourth Beach has earned Blue Flag status. This award reflects its high environmental standards. It is a testament to its safety and tourist appeal.
Imagine this. You are standing on soft white sand. The sun warms your skin. A gentle sea breeze whispers past. This is Fourth Beach at its finest.
This beach attracts families. It is also a glamorous spot. Yachts often anchor offshore especially on summer weekends.
Clifton’s beaches were rated among the top ten by Discovery Travel Channel. This happened in 2003 and 2004. Fourth Beach stands out as the most popular. It is also the busiest.
Volleyball nets dot the shoreline. Frisbee throwers add to the lively atmosphere. Sunbathers soak up the rays.
Lifeguards are on duty. They ensure safety during the Blue Flag season. This runs from December to March.
Fourth Beach offers many conveniences. Ablution facilities are available. Outdoor showers provide a refreshing rinse. A kiosk sells snacks and refreshments. Umbrellas and sun loungers can be hired. Local traders walk the beach. They sell ice lollies and cool drinks.
Parking is limited. Arrive early to secure a spot. You will want a good place on the beach too.
The small bungalows above Fourth Beach have a story. They were built for returning soldiers. These veterans had fought in World War I. The original structures used packing cases. These cases once transported imported cars. That was during the 1920s and 30s.
Water temperatures here can be surprisingly chilly. This is due to an upwelling of cold water. The effect is most noticeable in summer. Yet Fourth Beach remains inviting.
The beach repairs itself naturally. Winter gales strip the sand. Summer winds bring it back. City officials sometimes consider dumping sand. Nature has its own rhythm.
Two shark attacks are recorded in Clifton’s history. One was in 1942. The other in 1976. Shark sightings remain rare. Seals or sunfish are often mistaken for sharks.
Fourth Beach faced a difficult past. During apartheid, it was racially segregated. Access was limited to white people. This changed in the early 1990s.
Clifton was once called Skoenmakers Gat. This means Cobbler’s Cave. It was named after a ship deserter. He lived in a cave above Second Beach.
Today Fourth Beach welcomes everyone. It provides a perfect blend of relaxation. It also delivers seaside fun. It’s a must-visit destination in Cape Town.