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.
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