South Africa is a land of incredible beauty and diversity. From its breath-taking landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, there is an experience and a moment to enjoy for each traveller to her shores.
One of the country’s most popular attractions are her spectacular beaches. Wild and unruly, remote and scenic, popular with the beautiful crowd, family friendly crowd pleasers, surfer’s paradises… South Africa has them all!
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled family vacation, exploring South Africa’s coastline is sure to be rewarding. We’ve rounded up some of South Africa’s best beaches to help you in planning your vacation to South Africa.
Cape Town and the Western Cape
The Western Cape is home to some of South Africa’s most beautiful – and award-winning – beaches. Iconic Clifton Beach in Cape Town has four separate coves that offer plenty of white sand and clear blue waters for swimming and sunbathing. Popular with lovers of sunsets, Clifton often sees yachts anchoring in its bay enjoying the incredible views of Lions Head.
Just a few minutes down the road is Camps Bay – this stylish beach and beachfront is lined with palm trees, has its own tidal pool and is a mere walk across the road to restaurants, bars and lounges, making it effortless to transition from beach to dinner.
If you want something more adventurous, head over to Blouberg Beach, which has spectacular views of Table Mountain, and is well known as being excellent for kite surfing.
Located on the West Coast near Saldanha Bay, Paternoster Beach is a picturesque fishing village with white-washed cottages and pristine sandy shores perfect for long walks or horseback riding.
Muizenberg Beach – This colorful beach on False Bay is known for its vibrant beach huts and gentle waves perfect for beginner surfers or families with young children.
Llandudno Beach – Tucked away in a secluded cove on the Atlantic seaboard, Llandudno Beach offers a quieter alternative to the bustling crowds at nearby Clifton and Camps Bay. It’s also a great spot for hiking along the rocky cliffs or exploring tide pools.
Other beaches to visit in Cape Town:
- Boulder’s Beach for penguin sightings and relaxed family-friendly atmosphere
- Muizenberg for learn-to-surf lessons and easy, swimmable waves
Beaches to visit in the Western Cape:
- Buffalo Bay on the Garden Route
- Plettenberg Beach on the Garden Route
- Kraalbaai Beach / Lagoon in the West Coast National Park
- Wilderness Beach on the Garden Route
The Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape province of South Africa is a hidden gem when it comes to beaches. With its rugged coastline, pristine waters, and unspoiled landscapes, the region offers some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in the country. Here are some of the best beaches in the Eastern Cape:
Coffee Bay – Located on the Wild Coast, Coffee Bay is a popular destination for backpackers and surfers. The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rolling hills, making it perfect for hiking and exploring.
Port St Johns – This small town boasts several stunning beaches, including 2nd Beach which is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand dunes. It’s also a great spot for fishing or whale watching during migration season.
Hole in the Wall – One of the most iconic landmarks on the Wild Coast, Hole in the Wall is a natural archway carved into a cliff face that leads to a secluded beach. It’s only accessible by foot or boat, but well worth the effort.
Kenton-on-Sea – This picturesque coastal town has two stunning beaches: Kariega Beach with its long stretches of white sand and warm waters ideal for swimming; and Middle Beach which is less crowded and perfect for relaxing.
Jeffreys Bay – Known as one of South Africa’s top surfing destinations, Jeffreys Bay has several world-renowned waves that attract surfers from all over the globe. But even if you’re not hitting the waves, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy along this beautiful stretch of coastline.
KwaZulu Natal
KwaZulu-Natal is a coastal province in South Africa that boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. With its warm waters, golden sands, and lush vegetation, it’s no wonder that this region is a popular destination for beach lovers. Here are some of the best beaches to explore in KwaZulu-Natal:
Umhlanga Rocks Beach – This picturesque beach is located just north of Durban and offers stunning views of the iconic lighthouse and Umhlanga Pier. It’s perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing under an umbrella.
Ballito Bay Beach – Located just 40km north of Durban, Ballito Bay Beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand dunes. It’s a great spot for families with young children as the water is calm and shallow.
Margate Beach – Situated on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Margate Beach is a popular holiday destination with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. The beach itself offers a long stretch of golden sand and clear blue waters perfect for swimming or sunbathing.
Sodwana Bay – This remote beach on the Elephant Coast is famous for its coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a top spot for snorkeling or scuba diving enthusiasts.
Trafalgar Beach – This quiet beach near Port Edward offers breathtaking views of rocky cliffs and turquoise waters. It’s also a great spot for fishing or whale watching during migration season.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed beach holiday or just want to relax by the sea, South Africa has it all! From picturesque coves like Clifton Beach to lively spots like Umdloti, there are plenty of options when it comes to exploring South Africa’s coastline – so grab your sunscreen and come see what all the fuss is about! Browse our South African safaris now.
