Holiday Accommodation Types Available on the KZN South Coast

Coastal Living, Holiday Accommodation KZN South Coast, Property Investment

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May 18, 2025

The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) South Coast offers a wide variety of holiday accommodation options, from luxury beachfront resorts to affordable backpacker hostels. Whether you’re visiting during the Sardine Run or planning a relaxing beach holiday, there’s something to suit every traveler.

1. Beachfront Hotels & Coastal Resorts

These are full-service establishments located directly on or near the beach, offering comfort, ocean views, and direct access to coastal attractions. Many include restaurants, pools, spas, and entertainment.

Typical Features:

Sea-facing rooms and balconies
On-site dining
Swimming pools
Wi-Fi and air conditioning
Concierge and tour assistance

Popular Options:

Margate Sands Resort – A family-friendly resort on Margate’s main beach.
Premier Resort Cutty Sark (Scottburgh) – Convenient for Sardine Run access and boat tours.
Wild Coast Sun (Port Edward) – Large resort with a casino, golf course, and water park.

Best for: Families, international visitors, couples seeking resort-style amenities.

2. Self-Catering Apartments, Cottages & Holiday Homes

Self-catering units are ideal for travelers who want flexibility and independence. These range from simple apartments to large holiday homes with sea views and private gardens.

Typical Features:

Fully equipped kitchens
Braai (barbecue) areas
Private parking
Multiple bedrooms
Pet-friendly options

Where to Look:

Ramsgate – Known for quieter beaches and romantic settings.
Uvongo & Shelly Beach – Good for families and sea-facing complexes.
Hibberdene – Affordable homes near less commercialized beaches.

Best for: Groups, families, long-stay visitors, independent travelers.

3. Guesthouses & Bed-and-Breakfasts (B&Bs)

These smaller, often family-run properties offer a more personal experience. They’re typically located in residential or scenic areas and include breakfast in the rate.

Typical Features:

Individually styled rooms
Home-cooked breakfasts
Garden or ocean views
Warm, personal service

Top Picks:

Ocean Park Guest House (Umkomaas) – Popular among divers heading to Aliwal Shoal.
Beachcomber Bay (Margate) – Offers sweeping sea views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Kingfisher Lakeside Retreat (Trafalgar) – Set in natural surroundings near the estuary.

Best for: Couples, solo travelers, retirees, those looking for a home-away-from-home feel.

4. Camping & Caravan Parks

Camping is a popular and affordable way to stay on the South Coast, especially for families and road trippers. Many parks are beachfront or located near lagoons and offer good facilities.

Typical Features:

Communal ablutions and kitchens
Power and water connections
Braai areas and picnic zones
Playgrounds and family facilities

Notable Sites:

Mac Nicol’s Caravan Park (Bazley Beach) – High-end campsites with private bathrooms.
Rocky Bay Resorts (Park Rynie) – Offers log cabins and nature activities in addition to campsites.
Happy Wanderers (Kelso) – A beachfront favorite with entertainment and clean facilities.

Best for: Families, campers, fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers.

5. Game Lodges, Eco-Retreats & Inland Escapes

Located slightly inland but still close to the coast, these accommodations offer a peaceful, nature-focused experience. Ideal for combining beach trips with wildlife and outdoor adventures.

Typical Features:

Safari-style tents or cabins
Hiking and birding trails
Eco-friendly design
Limited capacity for a quiet atmosphere

Examples:

Lake Eland Game Reserve (Oribi Gorge) – Self-catering cabins, canopy tours, wildlife.
Mpenjati River Lodge (Trafalgar area) – Overlooks estuaries and forests.
Lodges near Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve – Ideal for birdwatching and hiking.

Best for: Eco-tourists, couples, photographers, travelers seeking tranquility.

6. Backpackers, Surf Lodges & Hostels

Budget-friendly and sociable, backpacker lodges attract younger travelers and surfers. These spots often host group dinners, tours, and surf lessons.

Typical Features:

Dorms and private rooms
Communal kitchens and lounges
Social atmosphere
Local tours and surfboard rentals

Popular Spots:

Mantis & Moon (Umzumbe) – Treehouse rooms, yoga classes, and a backpacker vibe.
Spot Backpackers (Port Shepstone) – Welcoming and well located.
Blue Wilderness (Umkomaas) – Great for diving packages and marine tours.

Best for: Solo travelers, budget adventurers, digital nomads.

7. Fishing Lodges & Dive-Focused Accommodation

Specialized lodges cater to visitors coming for diving (Aliwal Shoal, Protea Banks) or deep-sea fishing. These are often run by dive operators and include package deals.

Typical Features:

On-site dive centers or charter services
Gear storage and rinse areas
Training rooms
Early breakfast and dive-friendly facilities

Recommendations:

Blue Ocean Dive Resort (Umkomaas) – Right at the launch site for Aliwal Shoal.
Reefteach Lodge (Shelly Beach) – Run by divers for divers.
Bait & Barrel Guesthouse (Port Edward) – Popular among anglers.

Best for: Divers, fishing enthusiasts, underwater photographers.

Final Travel Tips for Booking on the KZN South Coast

Book early for peak Sardine Run season (late May to July).
Use local booking platforms for better deals and support small businesses.
Choose your base based on your activities:
- For diving: Umkomaas or Shelly Beach
- For surfing: Umzumbe or Port Edward
- For relaxation: Pennington or Trafalgar
- For family fun: Margate or Scottburgh

Why Choose CAM Properties?

CAM Properties is one of the South Coast’s most trusted real estate and holiday rental agencies. With years of local expertise and a wide range of verified listings, CAM offers:

Secure, vetted holiday rentals
Responsive local support
Flexible check-in/check-out
Personalized recommendations for Sardine Run visitors

Whether you’re looking for a beachfront apartment, a peaceful inland retreat, or a dive-friendly flat — CAM Properties has the right place for your stay.

Need Help Finding the Right Holiday Accommodation?

Let me know your preferred destination, group size, and travel dates — and I can help you narrow down a few CAM Properties listings that match your needs.

Would you like a downloadable version of this guide or a custom travel checklist to go along with your trip?

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