Beaches

With long warm summer days, some of the widest stretches of sand in the world, pristine coast and fine sand, the South African beaches attract tourists from all over the world. There is a lot to do and see along the coast lines and even if your intention isn’t to soak up the sun , you still won’t be bored.

Here is a list of the areas in South Africa where you can find some of the best beaches in the country.

Kwazulu-Natal

This area has lovely weather year round which also means the beaches are almost always overcrowded. Cape Vidal is one of the longest beaches in South Africa. In October, you can come here to see the humpback whales.
Mostly during the school holidays, the beaches of Umhlanga are crowded and full of life. They are a good choice for both swimming and surfing.
South Beach (Durban) is ideal for both swimming and surfing. Plus, there are plenty of things to do along the Golden Mile.

Eastern Cape: Wild Coast

The coast is famous for its wild scenery and beautiful beaches.
Port Elisabeth’s beaches offer safe swimming and surfing. Humewood Beach is a Blue Flag winner and Kings Beach is among the favorite beaches among locals and tourists alike.
Orient Beach (East London) is a good destination for swimming. If you are passionate about photography, check out Eastern Beach. Should you want to spend quality time with your loved one, take a long walk , hand in hand, on Nahoon Beach or Gonubie Beach.
Coffee Bay is a good choice for fishing.
Jeffreys Bay is where you should go for dolphin-spotting.

Western Cape: Cape Peninsula

Sandy Bay is the unofficial nudist beach. Grotto Beach is known for the pristine condition. Boulders Beach is a good choice for swimming…and spending time with penguins. Camps Bay is the equivalent of St. Tropez in South Africa; with incredible sunsets, swimming , surfing and excellent views of Lion’s Head.
Clifton Beach is the place where you can spot international celebrities.
If you want to have the view of Table Mountain and Robben Island when you swim, then head to Blouberg beach.
Muizenberg Beach’s water is warmer than the Atlantic Ocean beaches water and is a great choice for families. The swimming is excellent here. And it can be a good location for a picnic on the beach.
Cape Town’s Long Beach is the best place for horseback riding and walking.

>>read more about Cape Town Beaches

Western Cape: Garden Route

The town of Noetzie is famous for the three romantic castles located on the beach. Close by you’ll find Buffels Bay, a pristine location, excellent for a romantic escape.
Plettenberg Bay is home to two lovely beaches; Robberg beach offers whale watching. Lookout beach is the place to be if you want to see spectacular sunsets.

>>read more about the Top Ten South African Beaches

Photo credits:
South Beach , Coffee Bay , Blouberg beach , Buffels Bay