The year is well underway and it’s already time to start preparing for the Easter holidays. With its warm weather, budget-friendly venues, and great outdoor activities the KZN South Coast, is one of the best places for a fun-filled family getaway.
“It’s been a great start to the year and the KZN South Coast is already planning to prepare its many visitors for the Easter holidays,” noted Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE).
“For many families, the KZN South Coast is the annual holiday destination, and we want to encourage other families to start this tradition by showcasing the many reasons why the region is so popular. Now’s the time to visit the KZN South Coast!”
Highest number of Blue Flag Beaches in KZN
Boasting the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the province, visitors can be assured the beaches meet strict standards for safety, water quality, and environmental management. These can be found at Pennington, Hibberdene, Umzumbe, Southport, Ramsgate, Marina, and Trafalgar – with Scottburgh, Preston, Rocky Bay, Umthwalume, and St Michael’s all holding Blue Flag pilot status.
The KZN South Coast also has the highest number of tidal pools in KZN, with visitors enjoying 21 tidal pools that offer protected bathing conditions to visitors. It’s also home to three Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) at Aliwal Shoal, Protea Banks, and Trafalgar – the first two also being world-famous dive sites. Aliwal Shoal is a Hope Spot which is a critical space identified by NPO, Mission Blue, to create awareness about ocean issues. Not to mention the excellent surfing, stand-up paddling, kiteboarding, and fishing enjoyed along this coastline.
Great location
It’s incredibly easy to access the beautiful KZN South Coast, which has a subtropical climate that ensures year-round warm weather for visitors. Extending from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding, there are numerous coastal towns and inland villages to be explored, with easy road access via the N2. It’s located around 45 minutes from King Shaka International Airport and can also be accessed via the revamped Margate Airport.
Dining options
From quick and easy takeaways to award-winning restaurants, the KZN South Coast has great food for every palate. The coastal location means patrons can enjoy a great meal with ocean views, as well as take in the natural beauty of farmlands, coastal reserves, and rural villages. From the delectable Belgian waffles from The Waffle House to the international fusion food at award-winning The Packshed Restaurant, this is a foodie’s haven.
Accommodation
The KZN South Coast is also a budget-friendly destination, boasting some award-winning campsites and caravan parks located conveniently close to the beach. These are ideal for families looking to maximise the seaside experience without breaking the budget. Some top campsites to consider include The Pont Holiday & Water Sports Resort, Fairhills Caravan Park + Camping, The Characters Garden Park, and Scottburgh Caravan Park. There are also many great bed and breakfasts, hotels, and resorts.
Wellness experiences
Those wanting a more rejuvenating holiday this Easter will also find what they’re looking for on the KZN South Coast, which offers some incredible therapy practices and spas suited to whole-body health.
The first-ever South African wellness travel route – The Wellness Way – was launched by Odyssey Magazine and The Southern Explorer, supported by SCTIE, featuring yoga retreats, spa treatments, yoga sessions, and more. The Wellness Way includes around 80 therapists and practitioners dedicated to therapies of natural health and holistic healing from Amanzimtoti to the Wild Coast.
Mission tourism route
Those seeking a more spiritual experience this Easter holiday can head to The Mission Tourism Route found along the KZN South Coast. This enlightening tour touches on the history of Roman Catholic Mission Stations within the region – dating back to 1880 – and the interesting story of the Trappist monks who set up outstations to reach people in rural areas, providing education and skills training.
The Mission Tourism Route is also an ideal way for historians, religious devotees, educationalists, and other interested visitors to discover more about the KZN South Coast’s multicultural history.
