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incorporated into the newer, larger and higher structure that is today the Promenade and

gardens running from Mouille Point to Sea Point Pavilion. (Figs. 3.44 – 3.47.)

In 1930 bathing facilities for non-Europeans were provided in the vicinity of Sea Point
Pavilion and in 1938 extensive bathing and picnicking facilities for non-Europeans were

provided between Camps Bay and Clifton at cost £1,000. This included sanitary
conveniences and the clearance of rocks and stones from the various bays.

Camps Bay

Compared with Green Point and Sea Point, Camps Bay was perceived to be remote from

the centre of town. In fact it was only 6 miles away but was out of sight and accessible
only via the steep climb over Kloof Nek or by Victoria Road cut into the steep slopes

above Botany Bay and Clifton. In 1861 it was described as being almost deserted, but for
a couple of farm-houses and patches of corn near some shepherds’ huts. Although its

future as the Brighton of the Cape was already anticipated (‘A Lady’, 1963: 126.) it
remained for decades a popular but simple picnicking and camping spot.

Although the scenery was spectacular the coast was considered dangerous and visitors
were warned “….. against bathing in this treacherous bay, as it is extremely dangerous by

reason of a very strong current which carries the strongest swimmer out to sea.”
(Edwards, 1897: 43). The sea was also “astonishingly cold” and one of two conditions

were said to prevail in the area: either storm or calm.

In 1899 Randlords Wernher and Beit of Corner House (later Rand Mines) registered a

company called Cape Marine Suburbs (CMS) and bought all the land at the feet of the
Twelve Apostles running from the old Toll at Camps Bay to Hout Bay. The Camps Bay

area was named New Brighton. CMS embarked on an ambitious development

programme. In 1901 palm trees were planted along the front and they are extant. By 1904
construction had commenced on laying out kerbed and guttered roads, water supply and