Ask anyone (granted they have some decent geography and tourism knowledge) across the globe what Cape Town is best known for and at least one of the answers would be ‘its glistening beaches’.
Also read: CapeNature beach voted among world’s best by Condé Nast
This is precisely why, to many Capetonians who have attempted executing a beach day during the festive season, it may come as no surprise that the ever-popular Clifton Beach finds itself among The Travel Bible‘s list of the world’s most crowded beaches.
According to the renowned media and marketing brand filled with travel tips and guides, it’s the ‘allure of sun and sea’ at Clifton Beach and 14 others that attract throngs of visitors year-round.
‘Beaches are often synonymous with relaxation, tranquillity and the soothing sounds of waves lapping against the shore,’ says The Travel Bible.
‘However, some beaches around the world are so popular that they draw massive crowds, creating a bustling atmosphere filled with energy and excitement.’
Described as one long beach separated by boulders into four secluded sub-beaches, Clifton Beach claims number ten on the list of the world’s most crowded beaches for the following reasons:
- Spectacular views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Popular among both locals and tourists.
- Sheltered from the wind.
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What makes Clifton Beach so popular? The Travel Bible says its highlights include:
- Sunbathing and swimming
- Beach volleyball and picnics
- Sunset views
- Beach parties
Interestingly, each sub-beach (named first to fourth) is believed to attract its own type of crowd, according to Condé Nast.
Clifton First Beach is popular among people with dogs or those wanting an extra dose of seclusion, while Second Beach is frequented by models. Clifton Third Beach attracts the Mother City’s gay community while Fourth Beach is often filled with teenagers.
Here is the list of all 15 beaches, in order of descending crowdedness:
- Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro
- Bondi Beach, Sydney
- Waikiki Beach, Honolulu
- Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona
- South Beach, Miami
- Pattaya Beach, Thailand
- Kuta Beach, Bali
- Venice Beach, Los Angeles
- Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro
- Clifton Beaches, Cape Town
- Santa Monica Beach, California
- Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
- Jumeirah Beach, Dubai
- Blackpool Beach, Blackpool, England
- Maya Bay, Ko Phi Phi Leh
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Picture: Grant Durr / Unsplash