As summer approaches and the days warm up so our minds drift to the thoughts of spending our weekends lounging on the beach and working on our tan. The dilemma that we are left with however is which one of the fantastic beaches that South Africa has to offer do we choose to spend this leisurely time?
Sodwana Bay – This amazing beach in KwaZulu-Natal is a beautiful spot for people who like sandy beaches, lush tropical plants and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. If you’re an adventurer by heart then you’ll love the enchanting coral reef dotted around this bay. You’ll see a range of colourful fish, encounter different species and, if the time is right, be able to swim with whale sharks.
Plettenberg Bay– If medium sized waves and a bustling tourist spot appeal to you, your ideal stop should be Plettenberg beach in the Eastern Cape. You’ll be able to go on whale watching tours (available from June to October), enjoy all the entertainment the area has to offer and, for something more active, hit the body-boarding spots with perfect waves. In the summer this is one of the hottest spots for young people to party and have fun in the sun.
Llandudno Beach - South Africa
Llandudno – Tucked away between Hout Bay and Camps bay, this popular small bay has a beautiful view and is the perfect spot to enjoying the waves, have picnics and tan. You’ll occasionally find surfers at the beach, as the waves are medium sized when the swell is big. Llandudno also has a rocky area where you can explore mini pools and the landscape – if you’re lucky you may see playful seals skimming the waves.
Nature’s Valley Beach – The Garden Route is one of my favourite trips and this beach, with a magical forest bordering it and a large lagoon adjacent, is particularly beautiful. Those looking for a warmer dip than the ocean can provide will enjoy the lagoon, while the lush valley nearby is located next to the beautiful Tsitsikamma National Park – a nature reserve definitely worth exploring. If you want to do something more adventurous there are many activities available, ranging from kayaking and tree-canopy tours to the world’s highest bungee. This spot is relatively untamed so you won’t find a lot of shops and ice-cream vendors – luckily Knysna town is nearby and caters to all requirements.
Coffee Bay – This bay can be reached by an experienced 4×4 driver or by simply climbing over a few rocks – either way it’s worth it in the end. This hidden spot has a beautiful rocky landscape with a wild and natural coast line – it’s also well known for the hole in the wall formation.
Why do I bother calnlig up people when I can just read this!