Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club breaks down the flags every beachgoer should understand before heading into the water this festive season.
Clifton, South Africa (21 December 2025) – As South Africans head down to the coast this festive season, the beach becomes a place of sun and some much-needed downtime. But between the crowds, knowing how to read the safety signs can make all the difference between a great beach day and a dangerous one.
That’s where Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club has stepped in. The experienced Cape Town-based club recently shared a helpful video breaking down what the different beach flags mean at Clifton and why paying attention to them matters.
If you spot a red and yellow flag, it’s good news. This flag signals that lifeguards are on duty and actively monitoring the water. Between the two red and yellow flags is the safest area to swim, chosen to minimise hazards such as rip currents and submerged rocks. All those who will be enjoying the sun are encouraged to stay within these markers.
A solid red flag, however, tells a very different story. It means no swimming, as conditions are unsafe. At Clifton, this is especially important to note: while the area is made up of four beaches, Clifton 4th Beach is the only official swimming beach.
The advice comes from a club that knows rescue and safety inside out. Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club recently competed in the 2025 Rescue Sport Series at UWC, where they entered the season as last year’s overall leaders.
With hot days ahead and beaches filling up fast, the advice comes at the right time, reminding us to stay safe.
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