ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF
ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF

What are you looking for?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.


Alternatively, we recommend...

travel-form-icon

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

ENQUIRE TODAY
Email us
(optional)

15 Best Beach Holidays in South Africa

South Africa boasts some of the world’s most beautiful and diverse beaches, offering everything from pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters to rugged coastlines and secluded bays. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape, a surfing adventure, or a family-friendly destination, South Africa’s coastline has something for everyone. Here are the Top 15 beach holidays in South Africa, each offering unique experiences and unforgettable memories.

1. Clifton Beaches, Cape Town

Clifton Beaches in Cape Town, including the renowned Clifton Beach one, two, three, and fourth, set a beautiful and upscale atmosphere for your beach holiday. These four distinct beaches, each separated by granite boulders, have a picturesque setting with powder white sands and turquoise waters. They are perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and swimming in the icy yet refreshing Atlantic Ocean. The water here is generally cooler, ranging between 12°C and 17°C, making it invigorating for a quick dip.

GettyImages-1191078004-1024x620
Clifton offers a white-sand beach paradise experience in Cape Town, South Africa. Photo: Getty

2. Camps Bay Beach, Cape Town

Just a short drive from Clifton, Camps Bay Beach is another iconic Cape Town destination. Known for its palm-lined promenade, vibrant nightlife, and excellent dining options, Camps Bay is the perfect spot for a glamorous beach holiday. The beach offers soft white sands and inviting waters, with the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range providing a stunning backdrop. Families will love the tidal pools, which provide calm and safe areas for children to play and observe marine life. The ocean temperatures here are similar to Clifton, ranging from 12°C to 17°C.

View down to beach of Camps Bay from top of Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa
View down to beach of Camps Bay from top of Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa. Photo: Getty Images.

3. Umhlanga Rocks, Durban

Umhlanga Rocks is a popular beach destination on the KwaZulu-Natal coast, just north of Durban. The beach features golden sands, the warm waters of the Indian Ocean (averaging 22°C to 27°C), and excellent facilities, making it ideal for families. The nearby Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve offers scenic trails and bird-watching opportunities, while the vibrant Umhlanga Village is perfect for shopping and dining.

GettyImages-176861394-1024x768
The North coast of Durban and the exclusive tourist resort of Umhlanga Rocks. Photo: Getty Images.

4. Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route

Plettenberg Bay, or “Plett” as this town is affectionately known, is a premier beach destination on the Garden Route. The town boasts several stunning beaches, including Central Beach, Robberg Beach, and Lookout Beach. These beaches offer a range of activities, from surfing and swimming to dolphin and whale watching. Whales visit Plettenberg Bay, particularly during winter, making it a must-visit destination during off-peak periods for nature enthusiasts. The ocean temperatures here range from 15°C to 22°C.

GettyImages-622183942-1024x678
Robberg Nature Reserve overlooking the Indian Ocean gem of Plettenberg Bay. Photo: Getty Images.

5. Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape

Jeffreys Bay, one of the world’s best surfing destinations, is famous for its long, fast waves, vibrant surf culture, and beautiful beaches. The town hosts the annual J-Bay Open, attracting surfers from around the globe. Main Beach and Supertubes are the most popular spots, offering excellent waves and a laid-back atmosphere. The water temperature averages between 17°C and 21°C, making it comfortable for extended periods in the surf. Exploring this Eastern Cape beach holiday town is perfect for surfers and beach lovers alike.

GettyImages-1198932313-1024x683
Surfing at Jeffrey’s Bay along South Africa’s Eastern Cape Coast. This is seen as one of the world’s best surfing locations. Photo: Getty Images.

6. Kraalbaai, West Coast National Park

For a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, Kraalbaai in the West Coast National Park is one of the hidden gems of the Western Cape. The beach is surrounded by a lush coastal dune forest, enhancing its natural beauty and ecological richness. It also features calm, turquoise waters and pristine white sands, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. The lagoon is also home to various bird species, adding to the area’s natural charm. The water temperatures here range from 15°C to 20°C.

Couple relaxing on houseboat sun deck, Kraalbaai, South Africa
Couple relaxing on a houseboat sun deck in Kraalbaai, South Africa. Photo: Getty Images.

7. Ballito, Dolphin Coast

Ballito, located on the Dolphin Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is a vibrant beach town known for its warm waters (22°C to 27°C) and friendly atmosphere. Willard Beach is the main attraction, offering safe swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball. It is also a recognized blue flag beach, meeting high environmental and safety standards. The town also hosts the annual Ballito Pro, the longest-running professional surfing event in the world. Ballito is surrounded by lush greenery and has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of restaurants and bars. Adding the KwaZulu-Natal Coast to your beach holiday itinerary ensures you experience the best of the Dolphin Coast’s beaches and activities.

GettyImages-628951612-1024x683
Paved walkway and green lush dune vegetation at Ballito beach near Durban, South Africa. Photo: Getty Images.

8. Wilderness Beach, Garden Route

Wilderness Beach, located in the heart of the Garden Route, is known for its expansive sandy shores, rolling dunes, and tranquil ambiance. The beach is perfect for long walks, swimming, and bird watching. Additionally, it offers offshore scuba diving opportunities, making it a haven for adventure seekers. The nearby Wilderness National Park offers hiking and canoeing opportunities, adding to the area’s appeal. The water temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C. This Garden Route haven provides the perfect beach holiday blend of relaxation and adventure in one of South Africa’s most scenic regions.

GettyImages-1131529622-1024x683
Wilderness Beach along the Garden Route. Photo: Getty Images.

9. Southbroom, South Coast

Southbroom, on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is a charming seaside village known for its pristine beaches and lush vegetation. Southbroom Beach offers a tranquil setting with safe swimming, excellent surfing, and tidal pools for exploring marine life. The Southbroom Golf Club provides stunning ocean views, making it an excellent spot for golf enthusiasts. The water temperatures are warm, ranging from 22°C to 27°C.

GettyImages-924430414-1024x683
Aloe plants line the South Coast landscape in Durban South Africa. Photo: Getty Images.

10. Gonubie Beach, East London

Gonubie Beach, located near East London, is a family-friendly beach known for its long boardwalk, tidal pools, and gentle waves. It is also recognized as a blue flag beach, meeting high environmental and safety standards. The beach is ideal for swimming, picnicking, and fishing. The nearby Gonubie River offers canoeing and bird-watching opportunities, making it a versatile destination for nature lovers. The water temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C. The Wild Coast is one of the most memorable coastal regions of South Africa, packed with charm and natural beauty.

GettyImages-911351762-1024x683
Boardwalk and beach with tide coming in on a hot summer’s day along the Wild Coast. Photo: Getty Imags.

11. Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town

Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is famous for its resident colony of African penguins and is one of South Africa’s most unique beaches. It has clear, warm waters (16°C to 20°C) and large granite boulders that provide sheltered swimming areas. It’s an excellent spot for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The nearby Boulders African Penguin Colony offers an extraordinary opportunity to observe these charming birds up close. Don’t miss out on the best of the Cape Peninsula, including a visit to Boulders Beach, allowing you to experience the penguins and the natural beauty of the area.

GettyImages-1189719100-1024x683
An African Penguin at Boulders Beach in Simonstown. Photo: Getty Images.

12. Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth

Hobie Beach in Port Elizabeth is known for its golden sands, warm waters (18°C to 24°C), and family-friendly atmosphere. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sailing. The nearby Shark Rock Pier offers stunning coastline views, and the beachfront promenade is lined with restaurants and cafes. Plan an Eastern Cape Family Adventure, with a visit to Hobie Beach ensuring a fun and relaxing family beach holiday.

GettyImages-1323018582-1024x655
Hobie Beach, a popular local beach in Port Elizabeth. Photo: Getty Images.

13. Bloubergstrand, Cape Town

Bloubergstrand offers spectacular views of Table Mountain and Robben Island and is one of the most scenic beaches for photographers in South Africa. The beach is also famous for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and beachcombing. The water temperatures are cooler, ranging from 13°C to 18°C, but the strong winds make it a hotspot for wind sports enthusiasts. The surrounding area has a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops. A Cape Town adventure will be incomplete without a visit to Bloubergstrand, a beach loved by thrill seekers and beach lovers alike.

GettyImages-1057136944-1024x526
Windy day at Bloubergstrand beach overlooking Table Mountain and the city of Cape Town, South Africa

14. Mdumbi Beach, Wild Coast

Mdumbi Beach is a hidden gem on the Wild Coast. It offers pristine sands, warm waters (19°C to 24°C), and a secluded atmosphere for beach relaxation. This beach is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the spectacular natural landmark known as Hole in the Wall. The surrounding Wild Coast is rich in traditional Xhosa culture, providing a unique layer of cultural immersion to your beach break.

GettyImages-1333372187-1024x768
Hole in the wall is a defining natural attraction of the Transkei landscape. Photo: Getty Images.

15. Noetzie Beach, Knysna

Noetzie Beach is a secluded beach near Knysna, famous for its unique castles built along the shoreline. This beautiful beach features golden sands, warm waters (16°C to 22°C), and a tranquil atmosphere. Noetzie is perfect for those seeking a peaceful Garden Route retreat and is ideal for swimming, picnicking, and exploring the unique architecture.

GettyImages-1532955290-1024x768
Aerial shot of Noetzie Beach with surround beach houses. Photo: Getty Images.

South Africa’s coastline is dotted with beaches, each with its unique charm and attractions. Tap into the vibrant energy of a popular beach town or the serene beauty of a secluded bay. There’s a perfect beach holiday waiting for you in South Africa. Discover Africa’s curated tours and experiences are ideal for exploring these top beach destinations, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable holiday.

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us
Spectacular

Tanzania and Kenya Safari Review

Marcy, United States
08 Jan 2024
Amazing!

Botswana & Victoria Falls Family Getaway

Susan Easterly, United States
25 Jul 2023
Helpful and very friendly!

Namibia Self-Drive Journey Review

François Couvreur, France
25 Apr 2023
So helpful!

Tanzanian Safari Review

Elizabeth Horn, United States
22 Dec 2020
Outstanding trip to Botswana and Zimbabwe.

Botswana and Zimbabwe Review

Chris, Austria
08 Feb 2019
A trip that was easy to organise and hard to forget.

Honeymoon in Madagascar Review

Lexi Spheris, South Africa
09 Jun 2015