South Coast Self-Catering & Camping
The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast (from Amanzimtoti down to Port Edward) is perfectly suited to self-catering and camping. Warm Indian Ocean waters, dozens of family beaches and compact driving distances make it easy to combine low-cost stays with memorable experiences — tidal pools, waterfall walks, world-class dive trips and short nature hikes. Whether you want a budget family weekend, a powered-site caravan break or a wilderness camp near the Wild Coast, this guide gives you the up-to-date, practical information you need to plan with confidence.
Why choose self-catering or camping on the South Coast?
Self-catering and camping deliver flexibility and value. They let families prepare their own meals, set their own schedules and choose how rustic or comfortable their holiday will be. Caravan parks and established campsites provide powered sites, ablutions and play areas — a perfect middle ground between roughing it and hotel luxury. For budget travellers, self-catering keeps costs down without sacrificing location; for nature lovers, beachside camps and farm stays put you close to the coast’s quieter coves.
Top self-catering areas and what to expect
Scottburgh & central corridor — family value and convenience
Scottburgh and nearby towns (Park Rynie, Brighton) offer many affordable self-catering apartments and family cottages. Expect easy access to lifeguarded beaches, small supermarkets and family attractions. These towns are great bases for short escapes and budget stays.
Margate & Ramsgate — holiday hub with beach options
Margate has a wide range of beachfront apartments and family units. Ramsgate, a short drive away, provides caravan parks and family facilities. If you want quick beach access and nightlife options, this is the busiest cluster.
Southbroom / Palm Beach — boutique self-catering & quieter stays
For a slightly more upmarket or tranquil self-catering experience, Southbroom and Palm Beach offer boutique apartments and guesthouse-style units. These are ideal if you want quieter mornings, coastal walks and scenic viewpoints.
Port Edward & Leisure Bay — southern terminus and secluded coves
Glenmore, Munster and Leisure Bay offer rustic self-catering and small cottage rentals. These spots suit travellers who prioritise seclusion and easy access to the Wild Coast.
Best caravan parks and campsites (practical shortlist)
Below are reliable options that combine location, facilities and family friendliness. Always check availability and facilities before booking.
- Fairhills Caravan Park (Ramsgate): family-friendly powered sites, shaded pitches and quick access to Ramsgate Blue Flag beach.
- Margate Caravan Park: central and practical, within walking distance of Margate services and beaches.
- Scottburgh Caravan Park: reliable facilities in the central corridor — good for families and caravanners.
- TO Strand / Leisure Bay campsite: a graded resort-style campsite near leisure bays and protected coves — great for surf and wild-coast access.
- Private farm camps and smaller coastal sites: around Glenmore and Munster; these are quieter and more rustic — confirm water/power in advance.
Family self-catering vs caravan park vs wilderness camping — which is right for you?
- Family self-catering: Best for families with young children. Kitchens, private bathrooms, safe yards and proximity to lifeguarded beaches make this the most practical and comfortable budget option.
- Caravan parks: Ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors but want amenities (power, showers, kids’ play areas). Great for multi-family groups and road-trippers.
- Wilderness tent camping / farm camps: Best for experienced campers seeking solitude and nature. Expect basic facilities; plan for limited phone signal and bring supplies.
How South Coast Explore helps you find the right budget accommodation
Finding reliably good, affordable accommodation can take hours. South Coast Explore takes the hassle out of that process: we search vetted self-catering units, caravan parks and campsites that match your budget and family needs, confirm availability, check child-friendly facilities (cots, fenced gardens, ground-floor units) and handle the booking. Tell us your dates, party size and priorities and we’ll return hand-picked options with transparent pricing and contact details — so you can book quickly and confidently.
Three ready-to-book trip ideas (practical & mapped)
1. Budget family weekend (self-catering) — 2 nights
Base: Scottburgh or Margate
- Day 1: Stop at Amanzimtoti tidal pools en route, check into a self-catering apartment, evening swim.
- Day 2: Family-friendly snorkel option or tidal-pool exploring at Lucien/Manaba; esplanade dinner.
- Day 3: Quick Uvongo waterfall visit and depart.
Tip: South Coast Explore will match you to family apartments and handle the booking.
2. Caravan beach break — 4 nights
Base: Fairhills Caravan Park (Ramsgate) or Margate Caravan Park
- Pitch up, enjoy powered site comforts, day trips to Margate and Uvongo, and a braai finale.
Tip: Confirm dump-site access and power hook-ups when you book.
3. Wild-coast camping & surf — 4 nights
Base: Leisure Bay campsite or private farm camps near Glenmore
- Surf lessons, seaside hikes, and quiet night skies — ideal for surfers and small groups.
Tip: Book camp sites in shoulder season for quieter beaches and better rates.
Practical booking tips & seasonality
- Book early for peak times: December–January, Easter and school holidays fill up fast.
- Consider shoulder seasons: March–May and September–November offer milder weather, fewer crowds and better value.
- Request confirmation of amenities: power, potable water, linen, cots, and parking.
- Check cancellation policies for camps and self-catering units — weather and municipal rules can affect coastal sites.
Packing checklist — self-catering and camping essentials
For self-catering: pantry basics (tea/coffee, milk, bread), reusable containers, dish liquid, bin bags, oven mitts, basic spices, first-aid kit.
For camping & caravans: tent pegs and mallet, sleeping bags/liners, portable stove, extra water, power adaptors, hose for refills, waste bags, torches, insect repellent.
For everyone: reef-safe sunscreen, hats, beach towels, water shoes for rock pools, a waterproof phone pouch and printed copies of bookings and emergency contacts.
Safety, rules and responsible travel
- Swim between the flags. Lifeguards operate seasonally — flagged zones are the safest.
- Leave no trace. Remove trash, respect dunes and use marked boardwalks to protect vegetation.
- Fire safety: obey campsite fire rules and seasonal fire bans.
- Pets: check property and park policies; keep animals on leads and under control.
- Medical facilities: note nearest clinics and hospitals (ask your host for exact locations).
FAQ — quick answers for common questions
Q: Can South Coast Explore book campsites for me?
A: Yes. We can check availability and book many caravan parks and private campsites — tell us your travel dates and equipment.
Q: Are caravan parks family-friendly?
A: Most established parks provide powered sites, ablutions, play areas and shaded pitches — ideal for families.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to book a family weekend?
A: Self-catering apartments in Scottburgh or Park Rynie booked in shoulder season usually offer the best value.
Find the Perfect Accomodation
Ready to plan your South Coast self-catering or camping trip? Let South Coast Explore find the best budget or family option for your dates. Submit your travel details and priorities and we’ll send back tailored accommodation options and a booking quote within 24 hours.
Email: [email protected]
Or: use our booking enquiry form on the site and select “Self-catering & Camping” as your trip type.
