Located along Old St Faiths Road just outside Port Shepstone, the Umtentweni Whale Deck offers sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and is one of the South Coast’s hidden gems for land-based whale watching. Built by the local conservancy, this tranquil lookout is ideal for spotting humpback and southern right whales between May and October, often accompanied by dolphins and seabirds. With its peaceful setting and elevated vantage point, it’s a favourite spot for nature lovers, photographers, and those simply wanting to enjoy a scenic coastal escape.
With 7 Blue Flag Beaches for 2025
Explore KZN SOUTH COAST BEACHES
THE KZN SOUTH COAST HAS THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF BLUE FLAG BEACHES IN THE PROVINCE.
This beautiful stretch of Kwa-Zulu Natal Coastline stretches from just outside Durban to Port Edward with expansive open land and greenery all year round is an ideal holiday destination for people all over the world.
For anyone looking for pristine swimming beaches and tidal pool options to choose from the KZN South Coast has over 50 beaches of which 5 have been granted Blue Flag Beach status and another 7 of which are listed as Blue Flag Pilot Beaches showing how dedicated the region is to health and safety.
With amazing swimming beaches and wide open oceans also comes amazing wildlife. For those looking for a more adventurous ocean encounter the KZN South Coast is home to two top diving sites at Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks.
- 58 Beaches – 7 with Blue Flag Status.
- 2 of the top diving sites in the world.
Choose the accommodation to suit your needs.
From 5-star accommodation in a resort to camping grounds, the types of holiday accommodation on the KZN South Coast know no end. Family-friendly options often include swimming pools, jungle gyms and of course beach access. There are also a range of pet-friendly accommodations to choose from.
Umtentweni Beach
A portion of Port Shepstone, Umtentweni officially known as eMthenteni, is a small suburban neighbourhood resort located between the Mzimkulu River and the Mtentweni River. eMthenteni or Umtentweni falls under the Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
The Umtentweni Beach is perfect for every beachgoer, with a tidal pool and small beach area ideal for splashing, snorkelling and playing while the swimming beach offers bigger waves for those looking for surfing or a more challenging swim.
- Life Guards
- Tidal Pool
- Braai’s, Seating and Jungle Gym
South Coast Weather
Temperatures can vary between 16°C and 23°C. The coldest month of the year is July, which is also the driest. With an average of about 320 days of sunshine per year.
South Coast
Margate
3:56 pm,
Nov 30, 2025
22°C
overcast clouds
South Port Beach
South Port Beach is a beautiful beach and one of the latest to receive Blue Flag Beach status. This pristine beach has lifeguards, restaurants and more providing locals and tourists a wonderful beach day experience.
The South Port beach has shark nets for safety and a tidal pool that is child and adult-friendly.
- Blue Flag Beach Status
- Restaurant
- Tidal Pools
Sea Park Beach
Sea Park Beach is a quiet beach, ideal for taking long walks on the beach with pristine blue waters and generally clear skies. Local fishermen find this a good beach to cast from and face the rising sun over the Sea Park waters.
This beach also offers wonderful views and peaceful sounds of the ocean. The Sea Park beach does not have lifeguards and is not recommended for swimming.
- No swimming beach
- Beautiful quiet beach
- Great for walks
Port Shepstone Beach
Port Shepstone’s main beaches offer panoramic ocean views, a delightful lighthouse and a tidal pool. The main beach also has public restrooms, a seaside restaurant and a swimming pool with lifeguards.
The local police officers can often be seen driving along this stretch of road keeping an eye on the community safety.
- Lifeguards
- Tidal Pool
- Restaurant
UVONGO Beach
Uvongo Beach, nestled between a scenic waterfall and various rock formations, can be found along the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. This beach is a popular destination known for its pristine beaches, instagramable backgrounds and family-friendly atmosphere. Framed by lush vegetation and dramatic cliffs, the beach features a stunning waterfall that cascades into a lagoon, perfect for safe swimming, kayaking, and paddle boating. The clean sands stretch along the warm Indian Ocean, offering a great swimming experience with lifeguards on duty. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, enjoying a picnic, exploring the nearby tidal pools or wishing to have your coffee with a view, Uvongo Beach is an ideal spot for all travelers.
- Life Guards
- Restaurants
- Waterfall
southbroom Beach
Southbroom Main Beach offers swimmers and surfers the ideal water landscape. This beautiful beach offers lifeguards, public bathrooms, a tidal pool, and more. Separated into three beaches, Southbroom Main Beach, Grannies Beach, and Umkobi Beach, this serene area has everything needed for a stunning vacation.
- Lifeguards
- Blue Flag Beach
- Surfing
Sunwich Port Beach
Another family-friendly beach with stationed lifeguards, the Sunwhich Port Beach offers all beachgoers a comfortable and relaxing place to unwind. A part from the swimming beach Sunwhich Port also has a wonderful tidal pool, perfect for children and those who don’t want to go in the sea itself.
- Lifeguards
- Tidal Pool
- Braai’s, Seating and Jungle Gym
Ramsgate Beach
Ramsgate Beach, located in a lovely village along the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal has many features to it, this pristine blue flag beach is known for its stunning views, restaurants such as The Blue Lagoon and the well-known Waffle House and its family-friendly picnic areas.
- Blue Flag
- Lifeguards
- Tidal Pool
- Lagoon
- Restaurants
- Paddle boat
St mikes Beach
St. Mikes Beach, one of the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal’s popular holiday destinations has its beautiful features, easy accessibility, stunning scenery and waves with a lagoon stretching from the back and the ocean on the other end. St. Mikes is popular for surfing, body-boarding, family days out and more. This Blue Flag Beach also offers stunning and delicious meals from the CBali Restaurant, from yummy seafood to gourmet burgers you will not be disappointed. Lifeguards on-duty, clean bathrooms and showers for your convenience. This magnificent beach also has it’s very own tidal pool, for a relaxing swim or just to cool off on a hot day.
- Pilot Blue Flag Beach
- Lifeguards
- Tidal Pool
- Lagoon
- Restaurants
- Paddle boat
Trafalgar Beach
Exploring Blue Flag Trafalgar Beach, South Coast, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa
Trafalgar Beach! Now this beauty is one of those very quiet and not so busy beaches! But that’s what makes it even better. You can enjoy its lovely long stretch for hours enjoying the ocean breeze and sound of the waves. Listening to nature and having a sunbathing day is also a wonderful idea at this pristine, clean and quiet beach. Pop over to Trafalgar Beach after a busy town run, a hearty meal or even after exploring the Mpanjati Nature Reserve in Trafalgar.
Trafalgar Beach has unbelievably warm waters and makes for the perfect swim if you aren’t a fan of those cold ones! You’ll practically be swimming in a warm, oversized hot tub! Lifeguards are on duty at this blue flag beach throughout the year. Although other facilities are limited, the beach is super wide and sandy!
- Blue Flag Beach
- Lifeguards
- Tidal Pool
- Restaurants
Margate Beach,
Exploring Margate Beach, South Coast, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa
Margate Beach is the vibrant heart of the KZN South Coast and one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country. Unlike some of the quieter beaches, Margate is alive with energy, making it perfect if you love a festive atmosphere mixed with sun, sand, and surf. The long, golden shoreline is ideal for swimming, strolling, or simply soaking up the sunshine while enjoying the lively buzz of holidaymakers.
The beach is fully equipped with lifeguards on duty, tidal pools for families, and plenty of space for beach games or just relaxing. The warm Indian Ocean invites you in for a refreshing swim, while the surrounding town offers easy access to cafés, restaurants, and shops just steps from the sand. Whether you’re here for a swim, a family outing, or to enjoy the vibe of South Africa’s coastal culture, Margate Beach delivers the full seaside holiday experience.
- Lifeguards
- Tidal Pool
- Restaurants
Pennington Beach,
Exploring Pennington Beach, South Coast, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa
Pennington Beach is one of those hidden gems on the South Coast that blends natural beauty with a laid-back coastal charm. This quiet stretch of sand is perfect for long walks, collecting shells, or simply enjoying the soothing sound of the waves rolling in. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape away from the busier beaches, Pennington is just the spot.
The warm Indian Ocean makes swimming a pleasure, and the wide sandy shore gives plenty of space for sunbathing or family outings. Surrounded by lush greenery and a friendly village atmosphere, the beach is close to holiday homes, small cafés, and golf estates, making it a favourite for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re relaxing after a round of golf, exploring the nearby rock pools, or just spending a quiet day by the sea, Pennington Beach offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle.
- Lifeguards
- Tidal Pool
- Restaurants
Lucien Beach,
Exploring Lucien Beach, South Coast, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa
Lucien Beach is a small, tranquil stretch along the South Coast, perfect for visitors who enjoy peace and quiet away from the busier holiday spots. Its soft sand and gentle waves make it ideal for sunbathing, relaxing walks, and soaking up the coastal scenery.
The warm waters invite a leisurely swim, while the beach’s wide shoreline provides ample space for family outings or picnics. Surrounded by natural vegetation and a calm atmosphere, Lucien Beach is an excellent choice for those looking to unwind, enjoy nature, or simply listen to the sound of the waves on a serene day by the sea.
- Lifeguards
- Tidal Pool
- Restaurants
Hibberdene Beach
Exploring Hibberdene Beach, South Coast, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa
Hibberdene Beach is a relaxed and family-friendly destination along the South Coast, offering a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Its wide sandy shore is perfect for long walks, sunbathing, or enjoying the ocean breeze while watching the waves roll in.
The warm waters make swimming enjoyable year-round, and the gentle surf is ideal for children and beginner surfers. With nearby shops, cafés, and holiday accommodations, Hibberdene Beach is a convenient and peaceful spot to unwind after exploring the surrounding area or taking a stroll along the coastline. Whether you’re here for a quiet day by the sea or a casual picnic, Hibberdene Beach provides a serene coastal escape.
- Lifeguards
- Restaurants
Scottburgh Beach
Exploring Scottburgh Beach, South Coast, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa
Scottburgh Beach is a lively and welcoming destination on the South Coast, ideal for families, surfers, and holidaymakers alike. Its long, golden sandy stretch is perfect for swimming, beach games, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves and the ocean breeze.
The warm Indian Ocean invites a refreshing swim, while the beach’s wide shoreline offers plenty of space for picnics, walks, and sunbathing. Scottburgh is also known for its friendly atmosphere and convenient amenities, including shops, cafés, and holiday accommodations close to the beach. Whether you’re here for a day of fun in the sun or a relaxing escape, Scottburgh Beach provides a classic South Coast seaside experience.
- Lifeguards
- Restaurants
WHALE WATCHING
Choose the Perfect south coast beach
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