KZN South Coast Travel Guide
Welcome to the KZN South Coast, one of South Africa’s most beautiful coastal destinations. Stretching along the Indian Ocean in southern KwaZulu-Natal, the South Coast combines warm beaches, laid-back seaside towns, nature reserves, wildlife, adventure activities, golf, fishing and some of the province’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
Whether you’re planning a family beach holiday, a romantic getaway, an outdoor adventure or a relaxing weekend beside the ocean, the KZN South Coast offers plenty to discover.
From Scottburgh and Pennington in the north to Port Edward in the south, the coastline is filled with beautiful beaches, tidal pools, holiday towns, nature reserves, restaurants, attractions and hidden gems.
This complete KZN South Coast travel guide will help you discover where to go, what to do, where to stay and how to make the most of your visit.
Why Visit the KZN South Coast?
The KZN South Coast is all about enjoying the outdoors and making the most of the coastline.
The warm Indian Ocean provides opportunities for swimming, surfing, fishing, snorkelling and diving, while the region’s subtropical vegetation creates a beautiful backdrop for hiking, wildlife watching and scenic drives.
One of the biggest attractions is the variety of experiences available within a relatively short distance. You can spend the morning watching whales from the coastline, enjoy lunch overlooking the ocean and finish the afternoon exploring a nature reserve or relaxing beside a tidal pool.
The South Coast is also known for its relaxed atmosphere, making it an excellent alternative to busier coastal destinations.
Where Is the KZN South Coast?
The KZN South Coast is located south of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, extending along the Indian Ocean towards the Eastern Cape border.
The region is easily accessible by road via the N2, with the R61 providing access to many of the coastal towns and attractions.
Popular destinations include:
- Scottburgh
- Umkomaas
- Pennington
- Hibberdene
- Port Shepstone
- Shelly Beach
- Uvongo
- Margate
- Ramsgate
- Southbroom
- Port Edward
- Umzumbe
Each town has its own character, attractions and beaches, making it worthwhile exploring more than one destination during your stay.
Best Places to Visit on the KZN South Coast
Scottburgh
Scottburgh is one of the South Coast’s best-known holiday towns and an excellent starting point for exploring the region.
The town offers a beautiful sandy beach, swimming, surfing, fishing, restaurants and family-friendly attractions. Scottburgh is also close to several nature and adventure experiences, making it popular with visitors looking for an active coastal holiday.
Umkomaas
Umkomaas is famous for its connection to Aliwal Shoal, one of South Africa’s premier scuba diving destinations.
The town attracts divers from around the world, while its coastal setting also provides opportunities for fishing, surfing and enjoying the ocean.
For adventure seekers, Umkomaas is a destination worth adding to your itinerary.
Pennington
Pennington offers a quieter coastal escape surrounded by lush vegetation and beautiful beaches.
It’s an excellent choice for visitors looking for a more relaxed holiday, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, golfing, walking and enjoying the area’s natural beauty.
The nearby Umdoni Park Golf Club is one of the region’s scenic golfing destinations.
Shelly Beach
Shelly Beach is an important hub on the central South Coast and the departure point for diving adventures to Protea Banks.
The town offers beaches, shopping, restaurants and easy access to surrounding attractions.
It is also a convenient base for exploring nearby Uvongo, Margate and Port Shepstone.
Uvongo
Uvongo is home to one of the South Coast’s most recognisable coastal scenes, where a waterfall flows into the lagoon beside Uvongo Beach.
The town offers swimming, fishing, beach walks, tidal pools, restaurants and family-friendly activities.
Its combination of natural beauty and holiday facilities makes Uvongo one of the most popular destinations on the South Coast.
Margate
Margate is one of the KZN South Coast’s busiest holiday destinations, offering a lively combination of beaches, restaurants, entertainment and accommodation.
Margate Beach is the centre of the town’s holiday atmosphere, while visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, fishing, shopping, dining and exploring nearby attractions.
Margate is also an excellent base for discovering the surrounding South Coast.
Ramsgate
Ramsgate combines beautiful beaches with a relaxed village atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy the Ramsgate Marine Ramble, explore the lagoon, visit the Butterfly Valley Butterfly Farm, spend time at Ramsgate Beach or enjoy one of the area’s restaurants and cafés.
It is a popular destination for couples, families and visitors looking for a quieter coastal experience.
Southbroom
Southbroom is surrounded by beautiful beaches, indigenous vegetation and scenic coastal landscapes.
The town is particularly popular with golfers, beach lovers and visitors looking for a peaceful getaway.
Southbroom Beach and nearby coastal areas provide excellent opportunities for swimming, walking and enjoying the natural beauty of the coastline.
Port Edward
Port Edward is the southernmost coastal town on the KZN South Coast and offers a wonderful combination of beaches, nature and adventure.
Nearby attractions include Umtamvuna Nature Reserve, the Wild Waves area and several beautiful beaches.
Port Edward is also an excellent base for exploring the southern end of the South Coast.
Best Beaches on the KZN South Coast
The beaches are undoubtedly one of the biggest reasons people visit the region.
From wide sandy swimming beaches to secluded coves, tidal pools and surfing spots, there is a beach for almost every type of visitor.
Some popular beaches include:
- Scottburgh Beach
- Pennington Beach
- Hibberdene Beach
- Shelly Beach
- Uvongo Beach
- Margate Beach
- Ramsgate Beach
- Marina Beach
- Trafalgar Beach
- Southbroom Beach
- Port Edward Beach
- Umzumbe Beach
For a more detailed look at the coastline, explore the KZN South Coast Beach Guide.
Things to Do on the KZN South Coast
There’s much more to the South Coast than spending the day on the beach.
Swimming & Tidal Pools
Enjoy the warm Indian Ocean or visit one of the region’s many tidal pools for a more sheltered swimming experience.
Always follow local safety notices, lifeguard instructions and beach conditions.
Surfing
The South Coast has a long surfing tradition, with beaches offering conditions for beginners and experienced surfers.
Scuba Diving
The region is home to some of South Africa’s most exciting diving destinations, including Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks.
Shark diving is a major attraction, with seasonal opportunities to encounter several species in their natural environment.
Whale Watching
During whale season, visitors can often spot migrating whales from beaches, coastal viewpoints and dedicated whale-watching locations.
Keep your eyes on the ocean—you never know what might appear.
Hiking & Coastal Walks
Explore coastal trails, nature reserves, forest paths and scenic walking routes.
The Ramsgate Marine Ramble is one of the best-known coastal walks in the region.
Golf
Golfers are spoilt for choice, with scenic courses surrounded by coastal forest, countryside and ocean views.
Courses around Pennington, Southbroom, Margate and the wider South Coast offer options for golfers of different abilities.
Fishing
Fishing is a favourite South Coast pastime, with opportunities for shore fishing, rock fishing and deep-sea adventures.
Nature & Wildlife
The region’s nature reserves protect forests, rivers, wetlands and coastal habitats.
Popular natural attractions include:
- Mpenjati Nature Reserve
- Umtamvuna Nature Reserve
- Oribi Gorge
- Lake Eland Game Reserve
- Riverbend Nature Reserve
Family-Friendly Things to Do
The KZN South Coast is ideal for families because many attractions can be enjoyed outdoors.
Families can spend the day swimming, exploring tidal pools, visiting nature reserves, walking along the beach, enjoying local restaurants or discovering adventure attractions.
The variety also means you don’t need to spend every day doing the same thing.
One day could be spent at the beach, followed by a wildlife adventure, a family lunch and an afternoon exploring a nearby town.
Adventure on the KZN South Coast
For those who prefer their holidays with a little more excitement, the South Coast offers plenty of adventure.
Depending on the destination and season, activities include:
- Shark diving
- Scuba diving
- Surfing
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Kayaking
- Deep-sea fishing
- Hiking
- Mountain biking
- Ziplining
- Wildlife experiences
- Scenic nature trails
The region’s combination of ocean, forest, rivers and dramatic landscapes creates an ideal environment for outdoor adventure.
Where to Stay on the KZN South Coast
Accommodation is available throughout the region, with options for almost every type of traveller.
Choose from:
- Beachfront apartments
- Self-catering accommodation
- Guest houses
- Hotels
- Resorts
- Holiday homes
- Lodges
- Caravan parks
- Camping
- Luxury accommodation
For families, self-catering accommodation close to the beach can be particularly convenient, while couples may prefer boutique guest houses, lodges or beachfront accommodation.
Choosing where to stay often comes down to the type of holiday you’re planning.
Want a quieter break? Consider Pennington, Southbroom or parts of Port Edward.
Looking for entertainment and restaurants? Margate and nearby towns offer plenty of activity.
Want adventure? Shelly Beach and the southern coastal towns provide convenient access to diving and outdoor attractions.
Restaurants & Local Food
One of the best ways to experience the South Coast is through its food.
The region has everything from casual beach cafés and family restaurants to seafood establishments, coffee shops and more refined dining experiences.
Fresh seafood is naturally a popular choice, while local cafés and markets provide opportunities to discover South Coast favourites.
After a morning at the beach, there’s nothing better than finding a table overlooking the ocean and enjoying a relaxed meal.
Best Time to Visit the KZN South Coast
The South Coast is a year-round destination, but different seasons offer different experiences.
Summer
Warm temperatures and long days make summer ideal for swimming, beach holidays and family trips.
December and January are particularly busy due to the festive holiday season.
Autumn
Autumn often brings comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time for exploring.
Winter
Winter is one of the most exciting times for nature lovers, with whale watching and the annual Sardine Run among the seasonal highlights.
The coastal climate also remains relatively mild.
Spring
Spring brings warmer temperatures, green landscapes and excellent conditions for outdoor activities.
Seven-Day KZN South Coast Itinerary
Planning a longer stay? Here’s one way to experience the region.
Day 1 – Scottburgh & Umkomaas
Start in the northern South Coast, exploring Scottburgh before heading to Umkomaas for a taste of the region’s diving heritage.
Day 2 – Pennington
Enjoy a relaxed day exploring Pennington, its beaches and surrounding natural attractions.
Day 3 – Shelly Beach & Uvongo
Discover Shelly Beach before heading south to Uvongo Beach, its lagoon and famous waterfall.
Day 4 – Margate & Ramsgate
Spend the day exploring Margate before enjoying the beaches, Marine Ramble and restaurants of Ramsgate.
Day 5 – Southbroom
Explore Southbroom’s beaches, golf course and beautiful coastal surroundings.
Day 6 – Oribi Gorge & Lake Eland
Head inland for a day of dramatic scenery, wildlife and adventure.
Day 7 – Port Edward
Finish your trip in Port Edward, exploring the beaches and natural attractions around the southern end of the South Coast.
Getting to the KZN South Coast
The South Coast is easily accessible from Durban and surrounding areas.
Most visitors travel by car using the N2, with the R61 connecting many of the coastal towns.
Driving is one of the best ways to explore the region because it gives you the freedom to visit multiple beaches, towns and attractions during your stay.
Responsible Travel on the South Coast
The natural beauty of the KZN South Coast is one of its greatest assets, and protecting it is everyone’s responsibility.
Visitors can help by:
- Taking rubbish home or using designated bins.
- Avoiding damage to dunes and vegetation.
- Following nature reserve rules.
- Respecting wildlife.
- Keeping dogs under control where required.
- Swimming only in designated areas.
- Supporting local businesses and community initiatives.
Small actions can make a big difference in protecting the coastline for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions About the KZN South Coast
Where is the KZN South Coast?
The KZN South Coast is located south of Durban along the Indian Ocean, extending towards the Eastern Cape border.
What are the best places to visit on the KZN South Coast?
Popular destinations include Scottburgh, Pennington, Shelly Beach, Uvongo, Margate, Ramsgate, Southbroom and Port Edward.
What are the best things to do on the KZN South Coast?
Popular activities include swimming, surfing, fishing, scuba diving, shark diving, whale watching, hiking, golf, wildlife viewing and exploring nature reserves.
Is the KZN South Coast good for families?
Yes. The region offers family-friendly beaches, tidal pools, nature attractions, activities and accommodation.
When is the best time to visit the KZN South Coast?
The South Coast can be enjoyed throughout the year. Summer is popular for beach holidays, while winter is particularly exciting for whale watching and the Sardine Run.
How far is the KZN South Coast from Durban?
The northern South Coast can be reached from Durban in around an hour, while destinations further south take longer depending on traffic and your final destination.
Start Exploring the KZN South Coast
The KZN South Coast is more than a beach destination. It is a place where you can spend the morning exploring a nature reserve, the afternoon swimming in the Indian Ocean and the evening enjoying dinner overlooking the coast.
With beautiful beaches, welcoming towns, exciting outdoor activities, fascinating wildlife and countless places to explore, there’s always another reason to return.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’ve been coming to the South Coast for years, South Coast Explore is here to help you discover more of this incredible part of KwaZulu-Natal.
Start exploring the KZN South Coast and discover your next adventure.
