The Next Number 1 Destination in the world
The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is rapidly transforming from a beloved local holiday spot into one of the most compelling emerging travel destinations in the world. With sweeping beaches, dramatic gorges, ancient reefs, warm seas and a growing collection of adventure and cultural experiences, the region has everything global travellers are seeking in a next-generation destination. It is authentic, accessible, diverse, and still relatively undiscovered by international crowds, which gives early visitors the rare chance to experience it before the global travel wave fully arrives.
This feature explores why the South Coast is poised to become the next big name in world travel and offers suburb-level itineraries for Margate, Port Edward, Uvongo and Scottburgh.
Why the KZN South Coast is Positioned for a Tourism Breakthrough
A coastline with world-class assets
The South Coast’s biggest selling point has always been its coastline. But what’s changing now is the global recognition of its marine and coastal quality. Attractions like Aliwal Shoal have long been celebrated in the diving community, but broader awareness is surging. International travellers searching for reef experiences that are less commercialised than Asia or Australia are discovering this subtropical coastline at a growing pace.
Blue Flag beaches and pilot Blue Flag upgrades further signal environmental commitment and high-quality bathing standards. For global travellers who prioritise cleanliness, safety and natural beauty, this coastline is becoming increasingly competitive.
An inland playground for modern adventure
When travellers describe the South Coast as “diverse”, they mean it. Just minutes inland from the beaches lie some of South Africa’s most dramatic landscapes. Oribi Gorge is a core example: towering cliffs, dense forest, and heart-pounding adventure activities, all within a 20–30 minute drive from the coastal towns. This balance of coast and adventure helps the South Coast appeal to modern travellers who want more than a beach holiday.
Sustainability and small-town authenticity
The world’s next big destinations are no longer defined by mega-resorts and mass tourism. Instead, travellers want small-scale, community-led experiences, real culture, accessible nature and food that tells a story. The KZN South Coast already has these elements in place: a long-standing agricultural backbone, fresh seafood traditions, local markets, diverse communities and a naturally slower, more mindful pace of life.
Growing tourism infrastructure
The region is benefiting from improving roads, upgraded accommodation, revived events, tourism development initiatives and a renewed local focus on visitor service quality. These are the building blocks that take a destination from “nice holiday spot” to “globally competitive”.
Multi-interest appeal
Few destinations offer family-friendly beaches, premium dive sites, adrenaline activities, hiking, wildlife, cultural history and quiet rural escapes all within a short radius. This diversity protects the region from seasonality and broadens its international appeal.
With these ingredients aligned, the KZN South Coast is not only ready for growth—it is becoming one of the most strategically positioned destinations in South Africa’s tourism landscape.
Suburb-Level Coastal Itineraries
Below are curated itineraries for the region’s most sought-after coastal hubs. Each gives travellers a signature experience tailored to the character of the suburb.
MARGATE
The Lively Heart of the South Coast
Margate is the bustling coastal centre of the South Coast, famous for its energy, nightlife, long beachfront and easy access to surrounding attractions. It’s the perfect base for travellers wanting a blend of beach relaxation, dining, markets and day trips.
Day 1: Margate Beach, Village Walks and Local Food
Start the morning with a sunrise walk along Margate’s main beach. The wide crescent of golden sand offers clean swimming areas, tidal pools for kids and gentle early-morning waves for surfers.
Spend mid-morning exploring the village’s cafés, craft stores and boutiques. Margate’s main street offers everything from artisan goods to coastal apparel, making it ideal for relaxed browsing.
Lunch on the beachfront where seafood, grills and coastal-style menus dominate. Fresh line fish, prawns and curry dishes are staples of the region.
Day 2: Explore Ramsgate’s Art and Nature
Just five minutes south lies Ramsgate, one of the most charming artistic enclaves on the South Coast. Start at the Ramsgate Marine Ramble for scenic cliffside walks with sweeping ocean views. Visit the local galleries and eclectic cafes that give Ramsgate its creative personality.
In the afternoon, enjoy a paddle along the Ramsgate lagoon or visit the homegrown craft outlets the area is known for. Finish the day with a peaceful beach stroll at Ramsgate Beach, known for its tranquillity relative to Margate’s buzz.
Day 3: Adventure Day at Oribi Gorge
Base yourself in Margate and take a short inland trip to Oribi Gorge. Hiking trails, suspension bridges, birding walks, abseiling, high-adrenaline swings and scenic viewpoints offer a full day of outdoor excitement. The gorge’s dramatic scenery is a highlight for photographers and nature lovers.
Return to Margate for dinner and a relaxed walk along the beachfront promenade.
UVONGO
Waterfalls, Lagoons and Family-Friendly Bliss
Urvongo is known for its iconic waterfall that pours directly into a beach lagoon—something almost no other South African town can claim. It’s calm, family-oriented, scenic and perfect for travellers who want nature without noise.
Day 1: Uvongo Beach and Lagoon
Spend the morning at Uvongo Beach, where the sheltered bay creates ideal swimming conditions. The waterfall and lagoon offer remarkable views, while the tidal pool is perfect for families with young swimmers.
Rent kayaks or pedal craft on the lagoon. Enjoy a relaxed seafood lunch at one of the nearby restaurants overlooking the water.
Day 2: Birding and Nature Walks
Uvongo is well-positioned for nature enthusiasts. Visit nearby reserves, coastal forests and river trails alive with birdlife. The Uvongo Nature Reserve offers quiet walking paths shaded by tree canopies and dotted with viewing platforms.
Day 3: Local Markets and Coastal Meanders
Spend a morning browsing local craft markets or visiting nearby Shelley Beach and St Michael’s on Sea. The whole area is connected by scenic coastal nooks, making it perfect for a relax-and-discover day.
PORT EDWARD
Wild South Coast, Adventure and Borderland Charm
Port Edward sits at the gateway to the Wild Coast and offers a more rugged, dramatic take on beach living. It’s quieter, more adventurous and incredibly scenic—ideal for travellers wanting untamed coastline, nature and heritage.
Day 1: Silver Beach and Lighthouse Views
Begin with a sunrise walk along Silver Beach, one of the most peaceful stretches of coastline on the South Coast. The water is warm, the waves gentle and the beach is dotted with tidal pools.
Visit the nearby lighthouse viewpoint for panoramic ocean scenes and excellent whale-watching during migration season.
Day 2: Wild Coast Adventure and River Hikes
Port Edward is the perfect launchpad for river hikes, ocean viewpoints and day trips into the northern Wild Coast. Take a guided hike through indigenous forest, river crossings and cliff paths.
For a gentler day, visit the Beaver Creek Coffee Estate for a farm tour and tasting.
Day 3: Waterfall and Gorge Explorations
Visit local waterfalls or make another day trip toward Oribi Gorge for walking trails and adventure activities. Port Edward’s proximity to the Wild Coast brings a unique duality: rugged landscapes paired with laid-back beach culture.
SCOTTBURGH
Surf Culture, Marine Encounters and the Gateway to Aliwal Shoal
Scottburgh is one of the oldest resort towns in South Africa and remains one of the most inviting. It blends heritage charm with exceptional marine life and is the best base for divers visiting Aliwal Shoal.
Day 1: Scottburgh Main Beach and Esplanade
Spend your first morning at Scottburgh Main Beach, known for safe conditions, wide sands and excellent swimming. The tidal pool and grassy banks make it perfect for families.
Take a late afternoon walk along the esplanade, enjoying ice-cream shops, local restaurants and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Day 2: Dive or Snorkel Aliwal Shoal
Aliwal Shoal is the South Coast’s crown jewel for eco-tourism and marine adventure. Whether you are a seasoned diver or a total beginner, there are options for all levels.
Expect vibrant coral, turtles, rays, reef fish, shipwrecks and (in the right season) ocean giants like ragged-tooth sharks.
Non-divers can join snorkelling excursions or marine safaris to experience the wildlife from the surface.
Day 3: Crocworld or Birding Trails
Spend the final day exploring Scottburgh’s rich ecological surroundings at Crocworld Conservation Centre or walking one of the coastal birding routes teeming with species.
Why These Suburbs Strengthen the South Coast’s Global Appeal
Travellers love variety, and the South Coast’s suburbs each provide a distinct entry point into the region’s character.
- Margate offers nightlife, beaches, markets and easy access to attractions.
- Uvongo provides calm, family-friendly scenery and freshwater-lagoon charm.
- Port Edward offers rugged adventure and Wild Coast atmosphere.
- Scottburgh is the marine capital, perfect for snorkelling, surfing and diving.
The region’s ability to offer dramatically different experiences within a 1-hour drive is a major reason the South Coast is set to emerge as a top-tier destination worldwide.
Final Word: Why the World Will Soon Discover the KZN South Coast
The KZN South Coast is a destination whose time has come. The global travel industry is leaning heavily into the very things the region excels at: nature-based experiences, sustainable tourism, authentic small towns, diverse coastal landscapes and adventure that is accessible rather than extreme.
For travellers, this is the moment to experience the South Coast while it’s still uncrowded, affordable and deeply rooted in local character.
For local businesses, this is the moment to invest in the region’s momentum and prepare for rising international demand.
The South Coast isn’t just another coastal holiday. It is a complete ecosystem of beaches, forests, reefs, cliffs, villages and wildlife—ready to stand on the world stage as South Africa’s next big travel destination.
