South Coast
What, Where and When on The
There’s no doubt about it – visitors are spoilt for choice with what to do along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, with its subtropical forests, blue lagoons, golden beaches, rocky coves, the warm Indian Ocean, and sunny weather – this is what makes the South Coast such a popular destination. With outdoor pursuits ranging from golf, to hiking, mountain biking, diving, whale watching and almost everything in-between, visitors to this region will be spoilt for choice.
The South Coast is a renowned coastal holiday region and offers several Blue Flag beaches as well as a myriad of ways to enjoy both the beach as well as the warm Indian Ocean. Thinking beyond the beach, this coastline offers a plethora of unique and less-explored places, set amidst rolling hills and fringed by palm fronds and wild strelitzias. Known colloquially as ‘The Golf Coast’, the KZN South Coast boasts an abundance of well-maintained golf courses – from the novice to the pros, there’s a green for every golfer, most of which are surrounded by coastal forests with stunning sea views. Be sure to add the Wild Coast Sun to your list with its championship golf course and great selection of outdoor activities to keep the whole family happy. Visitors have ample opportunity to get out in nature and experience the great outdoors throughout the South Coast.
Hiking and mountain biking are activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family – explore the regions indigenous forests, coastal plains, hillsides, and gorges – all of which are which are home to a myriad of wildlife and local bird species. The Oribi Gorge is nearly 5km wide at some points, and over 400m deep and has nearly 30km of spectacular kloofs and crags, covered with dense subtropical vegetation. More than 500 plant species, a recorded 250 bird species and numerous small mammals including Vervet and the rare Samango monkeys and possibly an occasional leopard – and for an added adrenalin rush, you can experience the World’s highest gorge swing and Africa’s longest zip-line. With habitats including coastal forest, wetland, grassland, and woodland it’s not surprising that this region is a birding hot spot. Nature lovers will enjoy the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve, which conserves plants found nowhere else in the world, or go birding – 400 bird species have been counted along this coastline. To make the most of your birding trip, be sure to use a local Birdlife SA accredited guide.
The subtropical weather encourages the growth of abundant foliage and colourful blooms as well as subtropical fruits and vegetables. Feast on locally grown nuts or savour the strong aroma of freshly ground coffee – locally grown, harvested, and processed at the Beaver Creek Coffee Estate. Artistry and craftmanship can be found throughout the KZN South Coast and there are several shops and farmstalls offering the abundant produce and artistic wares of the region. Crocodile farms, banana plantations, candle factories, lighthouse museums and handmade crafts all add to the feast of local activities and produce on offer. Explore the many art galleries or dine out at a seafood bistro alongside the ocean, a pizzeria in a shopping mall or an ice cream cart on the beach – there is something to suit every taste and pocket.
Did you know?
The grey crowned crane is known as uNohemu in isiZulu, a name derived from their loud honking call. These striking birds perform an amazing courtship dance in which both the male and female bob their heads up and down then bow and leap a few metres into the air, with wings spread and legs dangling, often picking up bits vegetation and throwing it at their partner in between leaps. They are monogamous and both male and female build the nest.