Experience
Beach


Local beach holidays promise endless sunny days on stunning beaches, relaxation and a host of other beach adventures, perfect for the whole family.

Why you’ll love local beach holidays in South Africa

Why choose local beach holidays for your next getaway? With South Africa’s beautiful array of beaches and temperate weather in many destinations year-round, nothing quite beats a ‘local is lekker’ break at the coast. Mzansi boasts many beaches each with their own diverse appeal, guaranteeing that there’s a perfect beach holiday for every type of traveller – from vibrant, family friendly ones with a host of activities on your doorstep to resort style beach getaways off the beaten track.

Where to go for local beach holidays

No list of popular local beach holidays would be complete without mentioning the KwaZulu Natal coastline. Whether you choose to go up the North Coast to Ballito and surrounds or explore the South Coast, such as Scottburgh, Margate, Port Shepstone and Port Edward, both North and South Coast boasts its own unique set of attractions and – of course – heaps of opportunities to kick off those flip-flops and relish in some fun in the sun. With practically year-round sunny weather and the warm Indian Ocean, what’s not to love about beach getaways in KwaZulu-Natal.

In the Western Cape, vibrant Sea Point makes the perfect base for exploring the myriad charms of the Mother City and boasts easy access to some of the city’s most beloved beaches. Journey deeper into the Western Cape and explore the beaches of Knysna on the stunning Garden Route, with a good dose of other natural attractions on the side.

What to do

What to do on local beach holidays is entirely up to you! You can do as much or as little as you please.

Adventurous travellers can make the most of being right on the beach or close to the water and learn how to scuba dive or surf, a popular pastime in both KZN and Cape Town.

If you’re looking to relax, bring along that bestseller, sunscreen and snacks and simply enjoying soaking up the beach experience.

Along the South Coast, Wild Waves Water Park is a firm favourite for families. Keep your eyes peeled for the Sardine Run that takes place during winter and don’t miss the Humpback and Southern Right Whale migrations from winter through to spring.

Whether you’re in Knysna or Cape Town, if you can manage to drag yourself away from the beach, you’re spoilt for choice with historical attractions, culture tours and trendy markets and eateries.

What to Know

Hot, humid summers and mild winters are to be expected in KwaZulu-Natal, allowing for long, lazy days spent basking in the sun pretty much all year round.

In the Western Cape, visitors flock to the coast over the summer holiday period.

Arguably, the best time to plan local beach holidays is during the springtime when temperatures are not quite as sizzling as they are in summer, and when the beaches are not quite as crowded.

Consider hiring a car to get around. Unless you don’t feel much need to venture too far away from the beach, that is!

Accommodation


Whether you’re looking for laidback, barefoot charm or all the bells and whistles, a resort style feel or the independence of a fully self catering, apartment-style hotel to live like a local, you’ll find the perfect beach accommodation to suit your needs.

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