hbfisher: I believe to answer your question you would need to take a trip to Clifton and see what is left of the road, and the debris on the beach.

There are already signs up saying no traffic except camp users, it must be remembered this is a private road.

The tractors are a tourist operation and there may be some arrangement with the owners of Clifton reserve, I just don't know. A tractor is far more stable on the beach than a 4x4, and as already mentioned, with the state of the road and the access, the less vehicles on this beach the better.

To gain access by staying on the beach may not be an option as it involves crossing a boat ramp. Here winch cables are run out down the beach to retrieve boats, I can't see vehicles being very welcome either.

Why not simply walk like I do. I am seventy-two and I can make it in with all my gear and camera equipment with no problems.