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Beaches in KwaZulu-Natal South Africa by Gerald Crawford
These beaches offer something
for everyone, from protected beaches for family outings to the more untamed
beaches that are a surfer's paradise. Scuba dive or snorkel on the Elephant
Coast or enjoy the holiday vibe at one of the South Coast's four "blue
flag" beaches.
 The
beaches offer plenty of relaxation and sporting opportunities, including
surfing, boating, fishing and whale and dolphin watching, or for the more
adventurous take a trip in a microlight to enjoy the spectacular view from
above. It is also a surfer's paradise, offering some of the best waves
in the country. There are great waves wherever you go, with warm waters
all year around, so that you need little more than a spring wetsuit for
warmth, and on hot summer days even this is not a necessity.
Winter heralds the start
of the true surf season, with breezy eight-foot swells sweeping in from
the Cape coast between May and August. The swells are a bit smaller in
the summer months, offering fun surf at the many beach breaks, with most
surfers taking advantage of the wind-free mornings before the north-eastern
winds pick up.
With some 600 kilometres
of coastline only a handful of popular breaks get crowded, but many quieter
waves can be found along the coast, with many good roads making for easy
access. With all this on offer any surf fanatic would be sorry to miss
this awesome coastline, and your adventure could even find you surfing
a strip of coast that has never before been touched!
The KZN Southcoast is home
to a range of "Blue flag" beaches.
MARGATE BEACH:
A mile long beach on the
South Coast, ideal for swimming, bodyboarding and surfing. There is also
a famous fishing spot off a specially-constructed pier. Margate is a vibrant
holiday town with dozens of restaurants, bars and shops, plus accommodation
to suit any budget.
MARINA / SAN LAMEER:
A beautiful, long sandy beach
with an adjacent tidal pool. The beach is located between Southbroom and
San Lameer and is close to the Trafalgar Marine Reserve and Mpenjati river
mouth and lagoon. Lifeguards are always in attendance and facilities are
maintained in top class standards throughout the year. Easy access for
the disabled
RAMSGATE BEACH:
Ramsgate is a quaint village
just south of Margate. A quiet beach with picnic facilities in a park-like
setting provides a peaceful haven from the bustling beach towns. An easy
walking trail extends southwards from Ramsgate towards the picturesque
Southbroom beach and lagoon.
 HIBBERDENE
BEACH:
Based on the south coast
of KwaZulu-Natal, Hibberdene is a relatively narrow beach which is sheltered
from the southerly winds. The often steeply sloped beach has good waves.
A grassy picnic area makes it ideal for families. A new boat launching
site has been developed alongside the Blue Flag area.
LUCIEN BEACH:
Lucien beach, which lies
to the north east of Margate main beach, is a quiet but popular beach accessible
by a steep set of stairs. Top class lifesaving facilities are in place
in a new building which has lots of parking. The elevated parking area
provides good views of the sea and coast stretching towards Margate. A
good place to park and then walk along the coast towards Uvongo - a pleasant
walk with views of dolphins and other sea-life. Easily accessible from
the adjacent holiday flats.
WILLARD BEACH:
This is the main swimming
beach in Ballito, 'Pearl' of the North Coast. A 2.4 km boardwalk follows
the shoreline southwards providing an opportunity for an easy stroll with
spectacular views of bays and coves. A more rugged trail extends northwards
from Willard to Shaka's Rock which takes you through a hole in a cliff
– best attempted at low tide.
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About the Author - Gerald
Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication,
eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in
South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on.
E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address:
www.12234455.co.za/ |
