We’ve been to South Africa 6 times so far and have discovered beautiful beaches on almost every trip. Each province in the country is different and has its own unique coastal landscape. From the wild, rugged beaches of the west coast, where the Atlantic often dramatically laps against the cliffs, to the tropical paradises of the east coast with the warm waters of the Indian Ocean – South Africa’s beach diversity is truly enormous.

During our travels, we’ve not only visited the most famous hotspots, but also discovered small, hidden beaches that are often off the beaten track. What never ceases to amaze us is the unique mix of spectacular landscapes and the opportunity to experience something new on almost every beach: be it a sundowner with a view of Table Mountain, a surfing lesson in Muizenberg, or a walk along the pristine Wild Coast.

Whether you want to enjoy nature, be active, or simply relax – South Africa’s beaches are so diverse that you’re guaranteed to find a personal favorite. In this article, we’ll take you to the most beautiful beaches in South Africa and give you tips on what you can experience there, how to get there, and what to look out for. Have fun browsing and be inspired!

  • The most beautiful South African beaches at a glance
  • 1. Paternoster Beach
  • 2. Kraalbaai Beach West Coast NP
  • 3. Blouberg Strand Beach
  • 4. Clifton Beach 1-4
  • 5. Camps Bay
  • 6. Llandudno Beach
  • 7. Sandy Bay Beach
  • 8. Noordhoek Beach
  • 9. Kommetjie Long Beach
  • 10. Witsand & Misty Cliffs
  • 11. Olifantsbos Beach (Cape Point Nature Reserve)
  • 12. Diaz Beach
  • 13. Boulders Beach
  • 14. Muizenberg Beach
  • 15. Kogel Bay Beach
  • 16. Grotto Beach Hermanus
  • 17. Walker Bay Nature Reserve
  • 18. De Hoop Nature Reserve (Koppie Alleen Beach)
  • 19. Wilderness Beach
  • 20. Bollards Bay Beach Knysna
  • 21. The Island Beach
  • 22. Nature’s Valley Beach
  • 23. Jeffreys Bay Dolphin Beach
  • 24. Kenton on Sea
  • 25. Kelly’s Beach Port Alfred
  • 26. Chintsa Beach
  • 27. Wild Coast & Coffee Bay
  • 28. Thompsons Beach (Durban)
  • 29. Cape Vidal iSimangaliso Wetland Park
  • 30. Kosi Bay
  • The most beautiful beaches in South Africa – Our conclusion

The most beautiful South African beaches at a glance

We’ve taken a closer look at the most beautiful South African beaches and compiled all the important tips for you. You’ll not only learn where the beaches are and how to get there, but also what you can experience there and what great accommodations are available.

1. Paternoster Beach

Paternoster is a small fishing village on the west coast of South Africa – known for its white thatched-roof cottages, fresh fish, and a long, super-quiet beach. Paternoster Beach itself is perfect for walking, relaxing, and simply taking a deep breath.

  • Activities: Long beach walks, kayaking, collecting shells, and delicious food
  • Good to know: The water is quite cool – swimming is only for the die-hards!
  • Insider tip: Early in the morning, the light on the beach is perfect for photography.
  • Getting there: Via the R27 from Cape Town, journey time approx. 2 hours
  • Accommodation: Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel* – stylish, quiet, right on the water
  • Food: Cathy’s Kitchen Paternoster or Wolfgat

Paternoster Beach, South Africa West Coast

2. Kraalbaai Beach West Coast NP

Kraalbaai is located in the protected lagoon of the West Coast National Park and has an almost tropical feel: turquoise water, gently sloping beaches, and often a mirror-smooth surface. The perfect spot for a relaxing day at the beach, especially with children or if you just want to unwind. In summer, the water here in the West Coast National Park is also pleasantly warm.

  • Activities: Swimming, SUP, picnics with a view, admiring houseboats
  • Good to know: Entrance fee for the West Coast National Park is R123
  • Insider tip: It’s wonderfully quiet during the week – weekends are rather busy
  • Getting there: Approx. 1.5 hours from Cape Town by car
  • Accommodation: Kraalbaai Lifestyle House Boats* on the water
  • Food: It’s best to bring a picnic with your own snacks and drinks

West Coast National Park South Africa

3. Blouberg Strand Beach

Bloubergstrand is the classic for the famous postcard motif with a view of Table Mountain. The beach is wide, windy, and perfect for kitesurfing. It’s also quite spectacular for a stroll or photography at sunset.

  • Activities: Kitesurfing, taking photos, checking out beach cafes
  • Good to know: Strong winds – good for surfers, less suitable for swimming
  • Insider tip: Sunset overlooking Table Bay at the “Pakalolo Tableview”
  • Getting there: Approx. 30 minutes from Cape Town
  • Accommodation: Belle Maroc* or Blaauwberg Beach Hotel*
  • Eating: On the Rocks Restaurant or Doodles Beachfront

Blouberg Beach South Africa

4. Clifton Beach 1-4

The Clifton Beaches are four small bays in Cape Town with white sand, turquoise water, and huge granite rocks. Each has its own vibe – from family-friendly to stylish. They are especially popular on hot days, as the rocks often provide shelter from the wind. But be careful: The water is icy all year round!

  • Activities: Soak up the sun, swim, and enjoy the beach vibes
  • Good to know: Each bay has its own crowd – Clifton 4 is the most family-friendly
  • Insider tip: Bring snacks and drinks – there is no shop directly on the beach
  • Getting there: By car or Uber from Cape Town City Bowl (approx. 15 min)
  • Stay: The Nici Clifton Sea View Apartments*
  • Eat: Eatery Clifton and The Bungalow

Clifton Beach Cape Town

5. Camps Bay

Camps Bay is the epitome of Cape Town glamour – a wide beach promenade, numerous cafΓ©s, and a stunning mountain backdrop. The beach itself is large and clean, but the water is ice-cold. Ideal for a sundowner or simply enjoying life. It’s especially crowded during peak season and on public holidays!

☞ More about this here: The most beautiful beaches in Cape Town

  • Activities: Sundowners, swimming (ice cold!), strolling along the promenade
  • Good to know: Parking spaces can be scarce – it’s better to get there early
  • Insider tip: Gin and tonic at sunset at CafΓ© Caprice
  • Getting there: 10-15 minutes from Cape Town city centre
  • Accommodation: POD Camps Bay* or Sea Five Boutique Hotel*
  • Eating: CafΓ© Caprice, Col’Cacchio & Dizzys Restaurant & Pub

suedafrika-camps-bay-clifton-bay

6. Llandudno Beach

Llandudno is a little insider tip among Capetonians – no tourist hustle and bustle, no commercialism, just pure nature. The bay is framed by large rocks and is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or surfing. It is especially beautiful here at sunset.

  • Activities: Surfing, relaxing, taking photos
  • Good to know: No shop, no promenade – bring everything with you!
  • Insider tip: Yoga session with a view over the sea (to the yoga studio)
  • Getting there: Approx. 20-30 minutes from Cape Town via Hout Bay
  • Staying overnight: The Marvel Beach House*
  • Eating out: Suikerbossie Restaurant & Estate

Llandudno Beach

7. Sandy Bay Beach

Sandy Bay is the only nudist beach around Cape Town – secluded, quiet, and surrounded by wild nature. The journey there is a bit longer, but you often have the beach almost to yourself. Ideal if you’re looking for peace and quiet or just want to experience something different.

  • Activities: Nude bathing (optional!), hiking, chilling
  • Good to know: No official access – approx. 20-minute walk from the car park
  • Insider tip: Hike from Llandudno to the bay with fantastic coastal views
  • Getting there: Drive to Llandudno, then continue on foot
  • Accommodation: See Llandudno
  • Food: See Llandudno

8. Noordhoek Beach

Noordhoek Beach is over 8 kilometers long and is one of the wildest and most pristine beaches on the Cape Peninsula. Here you can walk endlessly, ride horses, or simply listen to the sound of the sea. In the water, you’ll occasionally see surfers venturing into the waves – but beware: not for beginners!

  • Activities: Horseback riding on the beach, walking, photography
  • Good to know: Usually windy – don’t forget your jacket
  • Insider tip: Sundowner on the terrace of the “Noordhoek Farm Village”
  • Getting there: Approx. 40 minutes from Cape Town via Chapman’s Peak Drive
  • Accommodation: Cape Beach Villa* or Wild Rose Country Lodge*
  • Food: Thorfynns Restaurant and Noordhoek Farm Village

Noordhoek Beach

9. Kommetjie Long Beach

Kommetjie has retained its relaxed surfer vibe to this day. The Long Beach is – as the name suggests – quite long and perfect for walks, surfers, or dog walkers. Especially in the mornings, the beach often has a completely peaceful atmosphere. We love it there!

  • Activities: Surfing, shell hunting, walking the dog
  • Good to know: Parking is possible directly on the beach, but there is little shade
  • Insider tip: Morning coffee from “Espresso Kommetjie” on the beach
  • Getting there: Approx. 50 minutes from Cape Town
  • Accommodation: Guinea Fowl House* or Stylish Kommetjie Escape
  • Food: AndRoc’s Mobile Kitchen and The Green Room

Long Beach Kommetjie

10. Witsand & Misty Cliffs

These two beaches are located between Scarborough and Kommetjie – wild, untouched, and often almost deserted. The wind almost always blows here, the waves are impressive, and the light sometimes even has a magical quality. Witsand and Misty Cliffs are especially popular with kitesurfers. If you love nature, open spaces and rugged coastal landscapes, you will love it here!

  • Activities: Windsurfing, relaxing, enjoying nature
  • Good to know: No service, no shops
  • Insider tip: Witsand dunes, especially at sunset
  • Getting there: Via the M3, approx. 50 minutes from Cape Town
  • Accommodation: The Birdhouse Villa Misty Cliffs*
  • Eat: Whole Earth Cafe and Sunshine CafΓ©

Witsand Beach Cape Peninsula

11. Olifantsbos Beach (Cape Point Nature Reserve)

Olifantsbos is a remote beach in the Cape Point Nature Reserve where you truly feel like you’re at the end of the world. Hardly anyone around, lots of wind, wild nature, and the rough Atlantic Ocean right in front of you. We went hiking there and discovered two old shipwrecks along the way – super exciting and quite photogenic.

The beach is located in the southern part of the national park and can be easily combined with a trip to the Cape of Good Hope. If you’re looking for peace, space, and a bit of adventure, this is the place for you. It’s best to start the hike to the wrecks in the morning and then add a relaxed visit to the Cape.

  • Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, exploring the shipwreck
  • Good to know: Entrance via the Cape Point Gate (R400 adults)
  • Insider tip: Hike the Thomas T. Tucker Shipwreck Trail
  • Getting there: From Cape Town, approximately 90 minutes to the Cape
  • Accommodation: Vitamin-Sea Apartment with sea view*
  • Food: Bring your own food!

Olifants Beach Shipwreck Trail

12. Diaz Beach

Diaz Beach is definitely one of the most spectacular beaches in South Africa. Wedged between steep cliffs, it lies deep within Cape Point National Park and is only accessible via many steps – but the descent is worth it! Down below, powerful waves, fine sand, and a dramatic backdrop like something out of a movie await you. You shouldn’t swim here, though, as the current is strong.

This beach is also part of the national park and can only be reached via the gate. Entrance is currently 400 Rand for adults and 200 Rand for kids. Don’t miss the view from the Old Lighthouse.

☞ More about this here: Cape Peninsula South Africa – Sights, Route & Travel tips.

  • Activities: Photography, enjoying nature, picnic with a view
  • Good to know: Not suitable for swimming – strong currents
  • Insider tip: Be there early or come late in the afternoon
  • Getting there: From Cape Town, approx. 90 minutes to the Cape
  • Accommodation: Vitamin-Sea Apartment with sea view*
  • Food: Bring your own food

Diaz Beach Cape of Good Hope

13. Boulders Beach

You’ve probably stumbled across Boulders Beach during your research, right? The beach is famous for its penguin colony and is one of the most popular destinations around Cape Town. Boulders Beach is small, sheltered, and ideal for families. From the wooden walkways, you can observe and photograph the little tuxedos. The entrance fee currently costs around 190 Rand (as of 2025).

  • Activities: Watching penguins, taking photos, sunbathing on the beach
  • Good to know: Entrance fee required (SANParks) – protects the penguins
  • Insider tip: The public section to the right of the main beach is often emptier in the morning
  • Getting there: In Simon’s Town, about 45 minutes from Cape Town
  • Accommodation: Penguins View Guesthouse*
  • Food: Frank’s at Marian’s Place and The Peckish Penguin

Boulders Beach Pinguine

14. Muizenberg Beach

One of our favorite beaches in False Bay is Muizenberg Beach. It is THE surfing hotspot around Cape Town – with a long promenade, colorful beach huts, and a super relaxed vibe. The beach is wide, gently sloping, and ideal for surfing beginners. We recommend a surf session with a guide*.

☞ More about this here: Surf Mecca Muizenberg – Our best tips and highlights

  • Activities: Surfing, swimming, trying out the ice cream parlor, people watching
  • Good to know: Large parking lot right on the beach, but sometimes quite busy
  • Insider tip: Blue Bird Garage Food and Goods Market (Thurs. & Fri.)
  • Getting there: Approx. 30-40 minutes from Cape Town
  • Accommodation: Bluebottle Guesthouse* & THE PLACE Muizenberg*
  • Food: Hudsons – The Burger Joint & Joon

Muizenberg South Africa Beach

15. Kogel Bay Beach

Kogel Bay is a wild beach along the spectacular Clarence Drive (R44) – framed by mountains, with rough surf and plenty of space. A dream in good weather, but downright uncomfortable in windy conditions. Every now and then you can see surfers in the waves here – really cool! At the small “Scenic Coffee” on the road, you have a great view of the mountains and the beach.

  • Activities: Watching the waves, picnicking, taking photos
  • Good to know: Strong currents – not suitable for swimming
  • Insider tip: Also popular with bodyboarders and campers – but no shops
  • Getting there: Via Clarence Drive, about 1.5 hours from Cape Town
  • Accommodation: Pitstop Lodge* or Whale Watchers Gordons Bay*
  • Food: Small snack bar right on the road above the beach

Kogel Bay Beach Garden Route South Africa

16. Grotto Beach Hermanus

On the outskirts of Hermanus is the famous Grotto Beach. It’s incredibly long, well-developed, and very family-friendly. We recommend a walk from Hermanus via the Cliff Path Trail to Grotto Beach. During whale season (June/July to October/November), with a bit of luck, you might even spot whales in the bay during your hike. Simply gigantic!

☞ More about this here: Hermanus in South Africa – Our best highlights & tips

  • Activities: Swimming, walking, whale watching (July–November)
  • Good to know: Blue Flag beach with lifeguards & infrastructure
  • Insider tip: Cliff Path Trail hike to Grotto Beach
  • Getting there: Approx. 2 hours from Cape Town
  • Accommodation: Cliff Cottage Hermanus* & Misty Waves Boutique Hotel*
  • Food: Fick’s Pool Restaurant & Bientang’s Cave Restaurant

Hermanus Sights Cliff Path Trail

17. Walker Bay Nature Reserve

The Walker Bay Nature Reserve is a secluded, untouched stretch of coast between Hermanus and Gansbaai. Here you will find peace, wild dune landscapes and often miles of beaches all to yourself. The entrance fee is currently 60 Rand for adults.

  • Activities: Hiking, exploring caves, whale watching, enjoying nature
  • Good to know: No on-site infrastructure in the reserve
  • Insider tip: Whale watching in July–November directly from the beach
  • Getting there: From Cape Town, about 2.5 hours by car
  • Accommodation: Kleinzee Oceanfront Guesthouse*
  • Food: Coffee On The Rocks

Walker Bay Nature Reserve

18. De Hoop Nature Reserve (Koppie Alleen Beach)

Now we come to one of the most beautiful beaches in South Africa. In De Hoop Nature Reserve you can expect huge dunes, a beautiful sandy beach that almost hurts the eyes, and absolute peace and quiet. Koppie Alleen is located in the De Hoop Nature Reserve and is known for spectacular whale watching directly from the beach. The sea may be cold, but it’s a welcome relief in the summer heat.

☞ More about it here: De Hoop Nature Reserve in South Africa – All Highlights & Info

  • Activities: Whale watching, hiking, photography
  • Good to know: Entrance fee, 50 Rand for adults
  • Insider tip: Bicycle tour through the reserve (bike rental: De Hoop Collection)
  • Getting there: Approx. 3.5 hours from Cape Town via Bredasdorp
  • Accommodation: De Hoop Collection* and A Riverbed Guesthouse*
  • Food: Restaurant De Hoop Collection, snack bar at the Koppie Allen car park

De Hoop Nature Reserve in South Africa

19. Wilderness Beach

Wilderness Beach is an endless beach on the Garden Route, framed by dunes and mountains. Here you can spend hours strolling, swimming, or simply gazing at the sea. Wilderness Beach is huge, often deserted, and also perfect for sunsets with a camera or picnic blanket.

There’s plenty to discover in the area. How about a kayak tour on the Touw River? Or a hike on the Giant Kingfisher Trail in the national park? And don’t miss the “Map of Africa” viewpoint. Wilderness is generally a worthwhile travel destination!

☞ More about it here: Wilderness in South Africa – Things to see, activities & Travel Tips

  • Activities: Walking, swimming, paragliding (from the Map of Africa Viewpoint)
  • Good to know: Sometimes strong currents – pay attention to warnings
  • Insider tip: Paragliding over Wilderness (book your flight here*)
  • Getting there: Approx. 30 minutes from George
  • Accommodation: Mes Amis Beach Guesthouse*
  • Eating: Salinas (right on the beach) or The Girl’s on the Square

Garden Route South Africa Wilderness Beach Dolphin Look Out

20. Bollards Bay Beach, Knysna

Bollards Bay Beach is a small, quiet beach in a sheltered bay on Leisure Island in Knysna. This beach is perfect for families or anyone who just wants to relax and swim. The water is shallow, often pleasantly warm, and ideal for swimming or SUPing. The beach isn’t huge, but it’s very well-maintained and almost always sheltered from the wind.

☞ More about this here: Knysna in South Africa – The Most Beautiful Sights & Tips

  • Activities: Swimming, SUP, kayaking, collecting shells
  • Good to know: Pay attention to the tides – there’s much more space at low tide
  • Insider tip: 2-hour Marine Eco Tour* (dolphins, seals & whales)
  • Getting there: Within Knysna, easily accessible by car
  • Accommodation: Maison Mahogany Knysna* or Turbine Hotel & Spa*
  • Food: East Head CafΓ© or Île de PaΓ―n for breakfast

Leisure Island Knysna

21. The Island Beach

This small sandbank at the end of the Robberg Peninsula can only be reached by hiking – but what a hike! The narrow strip between two seas is simply spectacular and a real highlight of the Garden Route. The waves crash here, swimming isn’t always possible, but the scenery is truly magnificent. Afterwards, you can end the day in one of the many restaurants in Plettenberg.

☞ More information here: Hiking in the Robberg Nature Reserve in South Africa

  • Activities: Hiking, photography, enjoying nature
  • Good to know: Only accessible on foot, no infrastructure, entrance fee 65 Rand
  • Insider tip: Best light in the afternoon – be sure to bring your camera
  • Getting there: Starting point at the Robberg Nature Reserve near Plettenberg Bay
  • Accommodation: Christiana Lodge* or Tsala Treetop Lodge*
  • Food: Emily Moon or The Fat Fish in Plettenberg Bay

Hiking in the Robberg Nature Reserve

22. Nature’s Valley Beach

This pristine beach is located near the Tsitsikamma National Park and is surrounded by mountains, forest, and a river estuary. The beach is long, wild, and often deserted; the surrounding nature feels almost tropical. Perfect for long walks, picnics or just to unwind.

  • Activities: Hiking, swimming, bird watching
  • Good to know: Hardly any infrastructure – bring everything with you
  • Insider tip: Morning walk on the beach and breakfast at the “Nature’s Way Farm Stall”
  • Getting there: Via the Grootrivier Pass from the N2
  • Accommodation: Small guesthouses and cottages in the village
  • Food: Nature’s Valley Trading Store or self-catering

suedafrika-natures-valley-beach-strand

23. Jeffreys Bay Dolphin Beach

Dolphin Beach in Jeffreys Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in South Africa. J-Bay is one of the most famous surf spots in the world and a must for all surfing fans. Dolphin Beach is not only good for surfing, but also a beautiful city beach with a wide stretch of sand and a chilled atmosphere. During the season, with a bit of luck, you might even see dolphins from the beach.

☞ More here:

24. Kenton on Sea

Now we’re taking a bigger leap and beaming ourselves near Port Elizabeth. In Kenton on Sea, two rivers meet the Indian Ocean – thus, there are several small beaches to choose from, depending on your mood. The place is super charming, quiet, and a popular holiday destination among South Africans. Particularly beautiful: Shelly Bay.

  • Activities: Swimming, kayaking, walking
  • Good to know: Ideal for families, relatively uncrowded
  • Insider tip: Sundowner on the dunes above the Bushman’s River
  • Arrival: Between Gqeberha (PE) and East London on the R72
  • Accommodation: The House Quarters* or The Quarter Deck*
  • Eat: Voila Restaurant and Shop or The House Kitchen

Kenton on Sea South Africa Beach

25. Kelly’s Beach Port Alfred

We continue to Port Alfred, a charming holiday resort on the Indian Ocean between Port Elizabeth and East London. A wide, fine sandy beach awaits you with good infrastructure (lifeguards, showers, and parking directly on the water). The water can be quite choppy depending on the weather, but there are also sheltered swimming areas.

  • Activities: Swimming, bodyboarding, collecting shells
  • Good to know: Blue Flag Beach – well-maintained
  • Insider tip: Visit The Big Pineapple in Bathurst
  • Getting there: Directly in Port Alfred, easily accessible
  • Accommodation: The View* or Kelly’s Beachfront Apartments*
  • Eating: MOTTO Cafe & Restaurant or Burksies

On the beach in Port Alfred in South Africa

26. Chintsa Beach

Chintsa is located in the northern part of the Wild Coast and has one of those beaches that just seems to never end. Wide, golden sand, green hills in the background, and hardly anything going on – perfect for walking, surfing, horseback riding, or just gazing into the distance.

The beach is divided into Chintsa East (with accommodations, cafΓ©s, and direct access to the water) and Chintsa West, which is a bit quieter and more pristine. The water is suitable for swimming, but as everywhere on the Wild Coast, don’t underestimate the currents. Most guests here are South Africans – international tourists are rare.

  • Activities: Horseback riding on the beach, walking, surfing, relaxing
  • Good to know: Hardly any infrastructure directly on the beach – bring everything with you
  • Insider tip: Sunrise horseback riding tour with “Cintsa Horses Beach and Bush Trails”
  • Getting there: Approx. 45-minute drive from East London
  • Accommodation: Buccaneers Beach Lodge* or Cintsa Lodge*
  • Food: Jolly Roger – Cintsa Restaurant

chintsa-suedafrika-rundreise-bruecke-meer

27. Wild Coast & Coffee Bay

The Wild Coast lives up to its name: rugged, green, untouched, and in places quite remote. The region stretches from East London to just outside Durban and is known for its dramatic coastlines, rolling landscapes, and small Xhosa villages.

Coffee Bay is one of the most famous places along this stretch – a sleepy coastal village with simple accommodations, a relaxed backpacker atmosphere, and a long sandy beach. In the surrounding area, you’ll find hiking trails along the cliffs, waterfalls, estuaries, and, of course, the famous Hole in the Wall.

  • Activities: Hiking, surfing, relaxing
  • Good to know: Arrival via sometimes very bumpy roads
  • Insider tip: Hike to the “Hole in the Wall”
  • Arrival: Approx. 4–6 hours from East London, depending on road conditions
  • Accommodation: Coffee Shack Backpackers* or Sunset Bed and Breakfast*
  • Food: Coffee Shack Hostel or Zac’s Seafood Kitchen

Hole-in-the-wall-coffeebay-trail-4

28. Thompsons Beach (Durban)

Perhaps you’re planning a trip to KwaZulu Natal on the Indian Ocean? There are many beaches around Durban – we think the best is Thompsons Beach. It’s a beautiful, sheltered beach north of Durban that’s great for swimming. There’s a natural rock lagoon for swimming and a cool mix of locals and tourists.

☞ More here: KwaZulu Natal South Africa – The most beautiful highlights along the east coast

  • Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing
  • Good to know: Suitable for families with children – busy on weekends
  • Insider tip: Check out the Umhlanga Rocks promenade
  • Getting there: Approx. 30 minutes north of Durban
  • Accommodation: Chakas Rock Chalets* or Villa Roc Guesthouse*
  • Eating: Salt CafΓ© or Fig Tree Restaurant

Hole in the Wall Thompson Beach Ballito

29. Cape Vidal iSimangaliso Wetland Park

You shouldn’t miss a trip to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park on Lake St. Lucia. The beach is a true all-rounder: beach, safari, snorkeling – all in one place! Cape Vidal is located in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and is one of the few beaches where you can swim and see wildlife at the same time. The route to Cape Vidal leads through dense coastal forest; with a bit of luck, you might see buffalo, zebras, or even rhinos along the way.

☞ More here: KwaZulu Natal South Africa – The most beautiful highlights along the east coast

  • Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, safari
  • Good to know: Entrance fee via SANParks (approx. 60 Rand for adults + car)
  • Insider tip: Get there early – limited access and a popular spot
  • Getting there: Approx. 35 km north of St. Lucia
  • Accommodation: Nibela Lake Lodge* or Hluhluwe River Lodge*
  • Food: Braai on the beach, self-catering or Picnic

iSimangaliso Wetland Park Cape Vidal

30. Kosi Bay

Almost at the very top of northeastern South Africa lies Kosi Bay – remote, pristine, and simply beautiful. The lagoon, mangroves, and beach make this place unique. The region is also known for the traditional fish traps of the Tonga community, which have been used here for centuries.

  • Activities: Snorkeling, paddling, enjoying nature
  • Good to know: 4Γ—4 strongly recommended, very remote
  • Insider tip: Kayak tour through the bay (booking through the accommodation)
  • Getting there: Approx. 6–7 hours from Durban, last section with 4WD
  • Accommodation: Kosi Bay Lodge* or Chinderera Eco Lodge*
  • Food: Mostly at the lodge or self-catering

Sights in South Africa - Wetlands

The Most Beautiful Beaches in South Africa – Our Conclusion

South Africa not only offers wildlife and spectacular landscapes, but also a huge variety of beaches. Whether you want to surf, swim, walk, hike, or simply dig your feet in the sand – you’re guaranteed to find your favorite beach here.

We were particularly impressed by how diverse the coastlines are: While the area around Cape Town is rather rocky and windy, you’ll find long sandy beaches on the Garden Route, and on the Wild Coast, you’ll sometimes feel like you’re at the end of the world. South Africa’s beaches are a scenic delight and will definitely stay in your mind.