South Coast

South Coast Overview

The South Coast combines all the tropical heat and vibrant beaches one can expect from the so-called Holiday Mecca of KwaZulu-Natal with the friendliness and laid-back attitude of the locals found along the various stops along the coast. Daytimes are filled with fun in the sun, and once the sun sets, the resorts, bars, restaurants and cafes come to life as locals and visitors alike enjoy the constant holiday atmosphere of the South Coast.

With a large number of small towns and larger towns along the South Coast, each destination along the route has its own unique charm. Here you will be able to get a taste of the eclectic blend of cultures found in KwaZulu-Natal, with Indian, Zulu and many other influences seen throughout the route. Cuisine is just one of the ways that this influence shines through, with architecture, cultures, nationalities and traditions also varying from town to town.
 

Highlights & Places in South Coast

The South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal is a haven for activities, with everything from sun tanning to scuba diving, fishing, boat trips, game viewing, golf, adventure sports and cultural pursuits on offer. This ensures something to suit every taste and need for adventure, as one might expect from one of the biggest holiday resort destinations in South Africa.

With so many beaches found along the South Coast, water sports and beach activities are par for the course. Sailing is a fun way to explore the coastline, while there are many good scuba diving sites. Aliwal Shoal is possibly the most famous of these, with plenty of marine life and coral reefs to explore under the warm Indian Ocean waters. Snorkelling is also excellent along the coast, with clear water that is ideal for fish-spotting. During the Sardine Run, a large number of dolphins and other marine animals can be seen throughout the South Coast.

For those who wish to indulge in something more energetic, canoeing, hiking, abseiling and many other adventure sports can also be enjoyed. Due to the large tourism factor on the South Coast, there are many tour operators in the region that will be able to assist with organising adventure tours.
 

Best Time to Visit South Coast

South Coast Weather

Temperatures on the South Coast range from 16C to 25C in winter to 23C to 33C in summer. The ocean temperature averages 2oC all year round.

When to Go

With year-round good weather, and over 300 days of sunshine a year, the South Coast is perfect for visiting any time of the year. Summers, especially from December to January, are generally very humid, with rainfall. December is also the busiest month, as this is when schools in South Africa finish. Beaches are generally busier during these months. Winters, which run from June to August, are mild and dry, with plenty of warm days for the beach.

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting To South Coast

The South Coast can be entered from Durban, with the Durban International Airport serving flights from all over the world. Driving is the best way to explore the South Coast at leisure, stopping at beaches, nature reserves and other attractions along the way.

Getting Around South Coast

As the South Coast spans across a large number of beaches and towns, driving is generally the best way to get around. At each stop along the way however, walking can easily be done, or even cycling for a fun way to explore each town.

South Coast Tips : Know Before You Go

ATMs/Currency/Money: there are banks and ATMs across the South Coast’s various towns, with many shops and restaurants accepting credit and debit cards.
Internet Availability: there are internet shops in some towns, and many accommodation venues have internet access.

Drinking Water: tap water is fine to drink, and bottled water is readily available.

Hospitals & Medical: there are hospitals, doctors, dentists and other healthcare providers in Durban, with limited healthcare options in smaller towns.

Visa Requirements: most travellers will not require a visa to enter South Africa.
 

South Coast Map