Winter may be approaching fast, but you don’t have to go into hibernation. Instead, it’s time to grab your surfboard and catch some waves. That’s right, LekkeSlaap has scouted about for some good surfing spots in KwaZulu-Natal where the water is relatively warm throughout the year, so you don’t have to worry about the cold. This beautiful part of South Africa’s coastline boasts some of the best surf spots in the world and surf’s definitely up in winter. Another bonus is that many accommodations offer special or lower rates during winter, so you can save big when you book your surf getaway.
First off we’re heading to Durban to find out why it is known as Surf City. Locals refer to it as The Golden Mile or ‘the Mile’ thanks to the well-known shoreline hugging the city. Here you can find many surf spots from South Beach, all the way up to the city’s northern beaches. What makes Durban so unique is the never ending stretch of golden beaches that are separated by various piers. You’ll certainly catch some good waves at this world-famous destination!
Location: New Pier, Durban Main Beach
Waves: Right and left hand waves and a 2 to 8 foot swell (sometimes bigger). If the wind is right you can expect some barrels.
Attractions: Time Warp Surfing Museum, uShaka Marine World
Accommodation: Curiocity Durban, Cowey’s Corner
Location: Bay of Plenty, Durban
Waves: Right and left hand waves and a 3 to 10 foot swell.
Attractions: International surfing tournaments, Mini Town
Accommodation: The Palace All-Suite, Oceanic
Location: Cave Rock, Bluff
Waves: Right hand waves and a 1,5 to 16 foot swell.
Attractions: The Bluff Nature Reserve, Durban’s Rickshaw Bus
Accommodation: Garvies Surf House, Silver Tides Seaside Accommodation
The South Coast is a popular holiday destination with golden beaches and subtropical vegetation and it stretches all the way from Amanzimtoti to Port Edward. This laid-back destination has endless summers and offers warm water and good weather conditions throughout the year. It boasts multiple Blue Flag beaches, making it a dream destination for surfers ─ it’s also known as point break heaven. The various river inlets provide estuaries and lagoons where surfers can paddle and enjoy the scenery.
Location: Amanzimtoti, South Coast
Waves: Left hand waves and a 6 to 16 foot swell ─ beware of the rocks.
Attractions: Amanzimtoti Bird Sanctuary, iLanda Wilds Reserve
Accommodation: Alante Lodge, Milkwood Beach Apartments
Location: Uvongo, South Coast
Waves: Right and left hand waves and 1 to 6 foot waves.
Attractions: Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, Uvongo Bird Park
Accommodation: Topanga 35, 119 Laguna La Crete
Location: Warner Beach/Baggies Beach, South Coast
Waves: Right and left hand waves and a 1 to 10 foot swell.
Attractions: Baggies Surf Pro, see the sardine run during winter
Accommodation: 8 Ocean Breeze, Oceanbreeze 13
The North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal is also known as the Dolphin Coast. It stretches from Zimbali to the Thukela River in the north and boasts endless beaches, breathtaking scenery and fields of sugarcane. This region has a strong Indian influence and is also the place where King Shaka was buried. Due to the diverse cultural influences and heritage, there are various attractions and significant sites to visit. The coastal holiday towns offer incredible waves and beautiful beaches and the major surf competition The Ballito Pro is held here every year.
Waves: Right and left hand waves and a 1 to 10 foot swell.
Attractions: Chaka’s Rock and Chaka’s Kraal, The Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve
Accommodation: Die Strandhuis, 75 Cascades
Location: Willard Beach, Ballito
Waves: Right hand waves and a 1 to 12 foot swell.
Attractions: Harold Johnson Nature Reserve, Simbithi Golf Course
Accommodation: Waikiki D1, 402 Kenwyn on Sea
Location: Richards Bay, Zululand
Waves: Right and left hand waves and a 1 to 6 foot swell.
Attractions: iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Enseleni Nature Reserve
Accommodation: Imvubu Lodge, Sailfish Inn
So, zip up your wet suit, grab your surfboard and try these spots on the beautiful coast of KwaZulu-Natal. We know you’re going to want to make a weekend of your surfing adventure, so check out our recommended accommodation options and snooze in style after a day at the beach. Surf’s up!
Feature image: “Durban beach front, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa” by South African Tourism (Flickr)
