KwaZulu Natal South Coast

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Embark on a captivating journey along the sun-kissed shoreline of the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. With its subtropical climate and picturesque beaches, this vibrant coastal paradise offers a wealth of hidden gems. In addition to pristine marine protected areas, nature and game reserves are home to a variety of marine life, birds, and wildlife. When you combine all of this with the magnificent Indian Ocean, you have the perfect adventure holiday destination. The Umdoni Coast on the KZN South Coast has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation, a romantic escape, or an exciting, adventure-filled trip. In this South Coast KwaZulu-Natal Travel Guide, I share the best places to visit and things to do on the Umdoni Coast.

👉 🌊 To uncover more of Kwa-Zulu Natal Province? Dive into my Kwa-Zulu Natal Travel Guide!

KZN South Coast as a destination

Where is the KZN South Coast? It begins 53 km south of Durban in Scottburgh, the largest town on the Umdoni Coast. Scottburgh serves as the gateway to the KwaZulu South Coast and extends 110 km down to Port Edward, located on the Wild Coast border. With a wide variety of activities available on the South Coast of KZN, it’s essential to plan your visit. If you don’t have your own vehicle, consider renting a car that suits your needs and budget – you can use DiscoveryCars to find you the right one.

The KZN Upper South Coast spans from Scottburgh to Mtwalume.
Lower South Coast stretches from Hibberdene to Port Edward and is known as the Hibiscus Coast.

Best Things to Do in the South Coast of KZN

The South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal is a paradise for the perfect summer beach vacation. With pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and many exciting activities, it offers everything you could wish for. Whether you’re into water sports, relaxation on the Beach, or exploring the local culture, the South Coast of KZN has it all. Dive into this guide and explore the best things to do on the South Coast and the top activities that will make your vacation unforgettable.

Scottburgh Beach Kwazulu Natal #South Coast best beaches — Scottburgh South Coast Beach ©mimmie

Visit KZN South Coast’s best beaches

The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast boasts the most blue-flag beaches in the province. Its subtropical climate and warm waters are perfect for swimming, surfing, and snorkelling year-round. The rocky pools and tranquil lagoons offer children the ideal setting to unleash their curiosity by catching small fish with nets and the simple joys of building sandcastles.

South Coast Tidal Pools

Some South Coast beaches feature tidal pools, which provide a safe and enjoyable experience. The ocean waves naturally clean tidal pools during high tide. In addition to swimming, these pools offer great opportunities for snorkelling and observing fascinating marine life. One standout example is the tidal pool at Scottburgh Beach, which has a unique plastered interior while still holding saltwater.

Tip: When swimming in a tidal pool, avoid touching the sides, as the edges may be lined with sharp shells that can cause injury. Wear swim booties for added safety. Given the intense heat from the South Coast sun, wear a hat and use sun protection to prevent sunburn.

Scottburgh

The coastal town of Scottburgh, is home to one of the most popular beaches on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, which has been awarded Pilot status. In addition to Scottburgh Beach, visitors can enjoy two swimming pools and the Scottburgh tidal pool. For a safe swimming experience, lifeguards are on duty year-round at Scottburgh Beach, which is conveniently located within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

Children love playing in the rock pools and lagoon, and during school holidays, a nearby Supertube is available for extra fun. It’s no surprise that Getaway magazine has ranked Scottburgh among South Africa’s top 10 holiday destinations.

🏡 Places to stay in Scottburgh

The popular Scottburgh, located on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, offers a range of accommodations from luxurious hotels to charming bed-and-breakfasts, as well as an acclaimed caravan park that has received prestigious awards.
Popular resorts include the Scottburgh Blue Marlin Hotel, and Premier Resort Cutty Sark. For additional options, you can visit Booking.com.

Park Rynie

Nestled south of Scottburgh, Park Rynie is a tranquil coastal town that boasts one of the most beautiful coastal regions on the upper South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. It was home to a whaling station during World War 1, but all that remains now is the striking Rocky Bay Pier and the remnants of a 1920s whaling wreck. These historical relics now serve as popular launch points for fishing charters, thrilling shark cage diving, and other diving excursions.

Park Rynie Beach offers a long sandy stretch in the north and features the Park Rynie Tidal Pool. To the south, you can find Rocky Bay Beach with its beautiful rock pools. Early mornings see locals fishing from the shore and jetty, and there are grassy areas with braai facilities for families. Popular self-catering options include 🏡 Scottiesview, just 400 m from the beach, and the popular Rocky Bay resort.

Rocky Bay

Nestled just an hour’s drive from the vibrant city of Durban, the picturesque 🏡 Rocky Bay Resort that caters to families and couples seeking a year-round retreat. With golden beaches, stunning rock pools, and Indigenous forests, it is a haven for adventure enthusiasts and those searching for peaceful rejuvenation. Located on the Old Main Road, Park Rynie.

Rocky Bay Beach holds blue-flag status and is one of the most enchanting beaches on the South Coast of Kwazulu Natal. It has shark nets for secure swimming and boasts a lovely KZN Rocky Bay tidal pool. It is a coastal oasis adorned with rock pools, reefs, and vibrant marine life, with Dolphin pods frolicking in the waves.

Marine life in Rock Pools at Rocky Bay Park Rynie KZN ©mimmie / Canva — Rocky Bay Resorts KZN South Coast ©mimmie

The best snorkelling on KZN South Coast

The stunning KwaZulu-Natal coastline, known for its pleasant weather throughout the year, features sparkling, crystal-clear waters, magnificent reefs, and the warm Indian Ocean along the Umdoni Coast. This area is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Rocky Bay is renowned for having some of the best snorkeling opportunities on the South Coast.

There are three main snorkeling spots around Rocky Bay Park Rynie:

Opposite the boat launching area, a rocky reef extends into the sea. The bay is rich in fish and safe during low tide.
The popular snorkelling spot is about 300 meters south of the Rocky Bay Caravan Park entrance, near campsite no. 39. Climbing on the rocks will lead you to a large pool.
In front of the southernmost campsite, a long gully runs along the giant granite boulders.

The Basic snorkelling equipment

Essential snorkeling gear includes a mask, snorkel, fins, and a swimsuit. While fins are not always necessary, their use depends on the snorkeling location. It is also advisable to wear booties, as rocks can be slippery.

The best snorkeling equipment for beginners is the same as that for experienced snorkelers. It’s always a good idea to invest in high-quality gear from the beginning, such as a silicone mask.

If you need any equipment, Scottburgh is just seven minutes away at Surfers Paradise Scottburgh Mall.

Snorkelers snorkeling in Rocky Pool in Ocean © Canva — Snorkelling in Ocean Rock Pool © Canva

Pennington

Nestled along the beautiful Umdoni Coast, Pennington may be small, but it offers a charming holiday experience that keeps visitors coming back. Known for its dairy farming and sugarcane cultivation, the area is infused with the sweet aroma of caramelized sugar.

Pennington Beach

The Pennington Beach features beautiful rock pools teeming with marine life and clear waters, making it ideal for families and fishing fans. While kids explore, dads can fish, and nearby shops provide essentials. The beach offers ample parking with excellent security, and a scenic path leads to the Impithi Beach Kiosk, picnic spots, and the beach.

Panoramic views from the deck is ideal place for spotting dolphins and whales. The pet-friendly Impithi café serves a good selection of meals, and ice creams while the popular Pennington Ski Boat Club is known for fresh fish and chips, outdoor seating with your pets on the grassy area.

Pennington Beach KZN South Coast ©mimmie

The Umdoni Park Nature Reserve

Umdoni is named after the evergreen, water-loving Mdoni water myrtle trees (Umdoni tree) grows up to 15 m and is generally found near Streams, swampy spots, and forest margins. Between August and November, these trees produce white to pinkish fragrant flowers with oval red to dark purple berries. The Umdoni Park Trust, established in 1920, maintains the Park and focuses on protecting the wilderness area.

Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate is located within the Umdoni Park Nature Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity, featuring a variety of bird species and small antelope that contribute to the preservation of the region’s fauna and flora. besides the Umdoni clubhouse there is a lively coffee shop and Kayla Ann’s gourmet restaurant, operated by a renowned chef.

Citation

Syzygium cordatum. (2023, October 14). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syzygium_cordatum

The Umdoni Golf Coast Reserve

The Pennington Umdoni Park Golf Club, celebrated for its natural beauty, features an exceptional 18-hole golf course. Players are treated a picturesque setting with stunning sea views as the course winds through a vibrant forest teeming with wildlife. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a casual player, Umdoni Park offers an unforgettable experience.

🏡 Best places to stay on umdoni coast

There’s a large variety of accommodations available. To name a few popular ones:

Botha House Pennington, a luxurious guesthouse in Umdoni Park, with oceanview, 300 metres from Pennington Beach. and 2.4 km from Nkomba Beach.
Casa Bella Guesthouse and a large Umdoni Park self-catering cottage is also nestled in the forest.
The Selbourne Golf estate, or check out the other Pennington accommodation options.

Bazley Beach

The charming Bazley Village is nestled between Pennington on the north and Ifafa on the south on the South Coast of KZN. It can be reached from the Sezela motorway turn-off. It is popular for its tranquil 11 km beach, which stretches from Pennington in the North to the Mac Nicols Resort. With its mild climate, Bazley is a popular family holiday destination, especially for those seeking tranquillity.

Besides relaxing and swimming, the best things to do at Bazley Beach are to take long walks on the Beach and snorkel in the crystal clear water. The lagoon is a scenic convergence of the Ifafa River. It’s also famous for surfing, fishing, birding, and mountain biking amid Illovo sugarcane fields. Bazley to Pennington is about a 15-minute drive.

🏡 Where to Stay in Bayzley Beach

Accommodation options vary from budget-friendly Dollies Place, Bayzley Beach, to more upmarket Selborne Golf Estate Hotel & Spa, to camping at Mac Nicol’s Caravan Resort.

KZN South coast sunset with people and their dogs and even bird in the shallow water #petfriendlysouthcoastkzn ©canva — KZN South Coast sunset ©canva

Ifafa Beach

Nestled at the mouth of the Fafa River on the Umdoni Coast lies the tiny coastal village of Ifafa Beach, KZN. The village’s Zulu name, given by King Shaka himself, translates to “place of sparkling waters”. Ifafa Beach lives up to its name with its glistering ocean and tranquil bays.

Ifafa Beach lives up to its name with its glistening ocean, tranquil bays, tidal pools, and a lagoon where the river meets the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. This lagoon is a hub for water-sports enthusiasts, and a playground for children who delight in its shallow, gentle waters. Ifafa Point is a fishing haven with excellent spearfishing opportunities.

Kelso Beach

Kelso is a small, charming village with a warm and welcoming atmosphere along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. The highlight of this hidden gem is its picturesque Kelso Beach, a paradise for surfers and a haven for snorkelling enthusiasts. For your safety, avoid wandering off too far on the Beach.

The Happy Wanderers Beach is primarily for guests of the Happy Wanderers Resort, known for its private stretch of shoreline. With a restaurant and bar, Happy Wanderers is the perfect place to base yourself in Kelso. They offer log cabins and campsites only metres away from the pristine Beach.

Mtwalume

Mainly a fishing village, Mtwalume derives its Zulu name from the trees growing along the Mtwalume Riverbank. The Mtwalume Holiday Resort is located in the stunning KZN South Coastal landscape, just 700m from the Beach. During low tide, you can enjoy swimming, snorkelling in the inviting rock pools, and exploring a serene tidal pool nestled among the rocks. The area also offers excellent rock and surf fishing spots, and the Mtwalume Ski-boat Club provides a secure launch site for boating enthusiasts.

Clansthal

Hugged between Umkomaas and Scottburgh, the small village of Clansthal is a hidden gem visited mainly by locals, fishermen, and divers. Home to the Green Point Lighthouse, the oldest of 3 lighthouses on the South Coast. Refrain from mistaking it for the lighthouse in Cape Town, which is actually the Mouille Point Lighthouse. The function of the Clansthal lighthouse is to warn ships to avoid Aliwal Shoal, a marine-rich reef on a sandbank 5 km off the Umkomaas coast.

Top activities on the KZN South Coast

The lovely town of Pennington has a beautiful and thriving spot that is a must-visit. It boasts a charming picnic area shaded by a Fig Tree planted by Ann Jerman in the early 1990s. You’ll also find an environmentally friendly restroom and a bird hide on the Nkomba River bank. You can take a stroll to the nearby quaint beach café.

The swamp forest and estuary are home to Blue Duikers, Vervet monkeys, mongooses, and several bird species. Monthly activities at ‘Under the Fig Tree @ Nkomba’ cater to nature enthusiasts. They range from a birding group with opportunities to listen to bird calls to Froggie- hunts, bat identification, and live musical performances. Location: Dolphin Dr, Pennington, tel. 083 441 5084. For more info, visit Pennington Conservancy.

The Doghouse Market is a delightful monthly event held at the Doghouse Cafe. In addition to offering delicious food and homemade treats, the market showcases a variety of high-quality artisanal crafts. The Doghouse Cafe provides the perfect setting for a fun day out for the entire family, and visitors are encouraged to bring along their beloved furry companions to enjoy the experience together.

For those who prefer to stay above the surface, I recommend one of the Scottburgh Dolphin view excursions or the Aliwal Dolphin-watching excursion on the South Coast. The Aliwal Dive Centre also boast swimming with dolphins in South Africa.

Diving on the South Coast

About Aliwal Shoal Dive Centre

Boasting an impressive 15 years of expertise, this PADI 5-Star IDC Centre, Umkomaas, is renowned for exceptional diving at Aliwal Shoal and is ranked among the world’s top 10 dive locations.

Shark Diving at Aliwal Shoal

Nestled 5 km off the coast of Umkomaas, Aliwal Shoal is an enchanting underwater paradise boasting fossilised dunes adorned with a rich tapestry of colourful corals and fish species. Altogether, Ragged Tooth Sharks, mighty Tiger Sharks, Manta Rays, Dolphins, and Whale Sharks.

Diving at Cowrie Reef

Nestled 4.5 km from the launching site and 2 km off Park Rynie Beach, Cowrie Reef is hailed as a premier diving spot, varying from 16 to 26m deep. The dive spot boasts captivating features such as enigmatic caves, winding gullies, adorned with plant life, game fish, and diminutive reef fish.

Scuba Diving at Protea Banks

Protea Banks is a stunning reef located an hour south of Umkomaas, extending 7.5km to sea from Shelly Beach. The reef is between 27 and 40 meters deep and measures approximately 6km in length and 800m in width. Its remote location further heightened its beauty and is a magnet for adventure seekers looking to dive with sharks throughout the year.

During the winter, the ragged-tooth shark congregates here to mate, while in the summer, the Zambezi (bull) shark becomes a regular resident of Protea Banks. Lucky divers might even glimpse the elusive tiger shark, and it’s not uncommon for them to witness the spectacle of hundreds of hammerhead sharks gracefully gliding overhead.

The Crocworld Conservation Centre stands out as a must-visit destination on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast for various reasons. While it originally started as a crocodile breeding farm, the centre recently transformed, strongly emphasising conservation, education, and tourism. Apart from being a sanctuary to diverse exotic and Indigenous animal and bird species, the centre also features a botanical garden and many farm animals.

Besides enjoying the wildlife encounters, visit the restaurant overlooking picturesque vistas and a dedicated play area for children, making it an all-encompassing experience for all ages. The centre promotes sustainable and thoughtful development in the greater Scottburgh area as part of the Mpambanyoni Conservation Development initiative.

Location: Old Main Road in Scottburgh. If travelling from Durban to Scottburgh, take the N2 southbound until you reach the Scottburgh turnoff, about a 45-minute drive. Amanzimtoti to Scottburgh is about a 21-minute drive. For more info, visit Crocworld, contact no. 039 976 1103.

Besides Nile Crocodiles, you’ll find some alligators and African dwarf crocodiles. Henry is a Nile crocodile and the oldest resident at the centre. He celebrates his 124th birthday in December. He shares his enclosure with six females and is believed to have fathered over 10,000 offspring. Colgate, the second oldest resident, is a massive Nile Crocodile, and he is 92 years old.

The centre is home to 14 species of snakes, including the Mozambique spitting cobra, green mamba, East African Gabon viper, and black mamba. As part of its community work, the centre also educates on conservation and assists with snake call-outs.

The more than 200 birds at Crocworld are amazing and a must-see. Among the species are endangered vultures, like the Palm Nut Vultures and Harris hawks, African white Pelicans, wood owls, spotted eagle owls, and even Pink Flamingos. An African fish eagle named Isis became a resident due to a broken wing, while the beautiful, extraordinary Toco toucan has been in captivity since birth due to a deformed beak.

Crocworld is open daily from 8:30 to 16:30.
Crocodile feeding times: 11:00 and 15:00.
Snake demonstrations: Weekdays at 10:00 & 15:30, and weekends at 11:40 (out of season).
Animal Farm and Playground: 09:00 to 17:00 (in season) and 09:00 to 16:50 (out of season).
Harris Hawk show: 10:00, 15:45 (in season), and 11:40 on weekends (out of season).
Scottburgh Bird Aviary: 09:00 to 17:00 (in season) and 09:00 to 16:50 (out of season).

Let’s Get Active

Kitesurfing on the KZN South Coast

Scottburgh is a prime destination for kitesurfing, with excellent year-round conditions. The best kitesurfing season on the South Coast of Natal is generally from September to April, with reliable winds. These favourable conditions make Scottburgh an ideal location for exhilarating kitesurfing in a stunning environment.

Westing south to the Hibiscus Coast, Palm Beach Lower South Coast is rated one of the world’s best wind sport wave riding venues. With consistent side-shore winds and ample space to catch the perfect wave, Scottburgh and Palm Beach are about 90 km apart.

Surfing on the KZN south coast

The KZN South Coast is the ultimate all-year-round surfing destination, with waves suitable for most levels of surfers. Under the right conditions, Scottburgh Point produces world-class, long, hollow waves that break hard onto a shallow sandbar.

Hiking Trails

Sea Bean Trail: This scenic 1.4-mile loop trail near Scottburgh offers a moderately challenging route which begins at Nkomba and extends along the Makamati Trail. Beautiful natural area managed by the Conservancy in Pennington – trail typically takes 30 minutes to complete.

The Umdoni Park Nature Reserve offer running hiking and cyclests a 210-hectare natural haven.

Umdoni Reserve Waterfall Trail is a moderate loop of about 1,5 hours.
Otter View Trail – is a moderate loop trail in the Umdoni Reserve (about 48 minutes to complete).
Umdoni Forest trail is a moderate loop trail that takes about 3 hours and 47 minutes.
Umdoni Golf Park 10 km Trail – 10k trail at Umdoni Park Golf Club.

Mountain Bike Trails

Starting at Rocky Bay Resort’s main gate, the trails take you through Ellingham Estate, a private sugar-cane estate. A range of courses, from 9km to 40km, offer a thrilling adventure for mountain bikers. Embark on exhilarating mountain-biking adventures while exploring the stunning, varied terrain of the KZN South Coast. Traverse dense coastal forests, rugged cliffs, and sprawling farmlands, suitable for beginner and seasoned riders alike.

Badgers Cycling & Sport Centre

Nestled within the tranquil Rocky Bay Resort in Park Rynie, Badgers Cycling & Sports Centre differs from your average bike shop. It serves as a vibrant community hub for cyclists and sports enthusiasts in the area. Conveniently located in the heart of Park Rynie, Badgers, opposite the Bells Restaurant, provides a warm environment where people from all ages unite to indulge in their love for cycling, and outdoor pursuits. Contact number is. 0728319978.

Fishing On The South Coast KZN

The South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Its year-round excellent weather, stunning beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and unhurried pace of life make it the ideal place to cast that line.

Suppose you have a passion for fishing and are intrigued by catching a Swordfish bill, participating in light game fishing, or taking on the challenge of shark fishing. In that case, the annual Sardine migration is an unforgettable fishing experience.

Explore the Bazley rocky peninsulas to reel in prized catches like Flatfish, Natal Stumpnose, Shad/Elf, Kob, and Garrick. All anglers must have a fishing license, available online at fishing.dffe.gov.za or from any Post Office.

Fishing Charters Park Rynie

Several deep-sea fishing charters operate on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. The South Coast offers opportunities to catch Tuna, King and Queen Mackerel, Dorado, Bonito, Sailfish, and Shad. Stick to the regulations, like fish sizes. If the fish is undersized, release it back into the water.

Wotalotigot provides exhilarating Ski boat fishing on the south coast of KZN, launching from the Park Rynie Ski Boat Club.

Angler Fishing at Rocky Bay KZN South Coast ©mimmie — Johan Fishing at Rocky Bay ©mimmie

👉🌊🌺 Discover the Beauty of the KZN Hibiscus Coast: Your Gateway to Paradise!

The Best Places To Eat On The Umdoni Coast

Pennington Restaurants

The Beach Café @ Impithi

Impithi’s Beach Cafe was formerly called the Impithi Beach kiosk, named after the Blue Duiker, iMpithi in isiZulu. The Beach Café is a charming restaurant with an expansive wrap-around veranda and outdoor seating situated on a coastal dune with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. Pets are welcome, and there are even water bowls for your furry friends. The Pennington Beach Café offer tasty food at reasonable prices and is vegan-friendly. They are open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Fridays. Note that they don’t serve alcohol. Location: C1 Cherry Lane, Pennington – Contact no. 066 371 5631.

The DogHouse Craft Cafe & Basset Breweries

Escape to a picturesque private nature reserve and delight in a delectable combination of craft beer and lovingly prepared homemade dishes. Nestled within a tranquil garden, the pet-friendly Doghouse Café Pennington provides a cosy restaurant surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes with vibrant birdlife.

Our recent visit with Dashuri was truly memorable, and we can recommend their pizzas. Doghouse Restaurant is renowned for its sumptuous oxtail pies, vegetarian options, and cocktails. We can’t wait to go back to try those pies. Doghouse Cafe is on the same premises as Basset Breweries off R102, Pennington.

Basset Breweries

The renowned Basset Breweries in Pennington, KwaZulu-Natal, is known for its premium craft beers and delicious food. A picturesque dam invites guests to enjoy fishing, while a kiddie playground keeps the little ones entertained. This dog-friendly gem is located at R102, Old South Coast Road, Pennington, 4184, and is open every day except Mondays and Tuesdays. Contact no. 074 609 3835

Seafood, Pizzas and Burgers at Restaurants on Umdoni Coast #Where to eat in Pennington KZN South Coast — The Beach Café and Dog House Café Pennington ©mimmie

Kayla Ann’s Restaurant

Dive into the delectable narrative of Kayla-Ann Osborn’s culinary journey. Kayla Ann Osborn brought her culinary expertise home. Indulge in a delightful experience at The Italian Club in Pennington. Treat yourself to our mouthwatering, authentic pizzas and ice-cold beers. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed family dinner or a fun night out with friends, our welcoming atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. Location: 1 Pienaar Road, Pennington – In Umdoni Point Sports and Leisure – Tel 0714925647.

The Range Cafe, Duck Pond Restaurant & Pub

I wanted to share some information about the Selborne Clubhouse in Pennington. Unfortunately, we couldn’t visit this restaurant because they won’t allow Dashuri. It’s disappointing that they don’t allow dogs on a leash, especially since we constantly clean up after Dashuri. However, there are plenty of other pet-friendly places to visit, so we’ll explore those instead of Selborne.

Scottburgh Restaurants

Fish Eagle Café

With its stunning, expansive wraparound deck, the Fish Eagle Restaurant at Crocodile World provides incredible views of the Indian Ocean and crocodiles. It is run by Morné van Zyl, a renowned chef who catered for Nelson Mandela. There is a good chance of viewing dolphins frolicking at the famous Fish Eagle Café, an even better spot to watch this spectacular phenomenon. Hours: 09:00 – 16:30; the kitchen closes at 16:00.

Delicious seafood platter and Bunny Chow at Scottburgh Restaurants #restaurantsinScottburghkzn — Scottburgh Restaurants #restaurantsinScottburghkzn

Disclaimer: Some links on this page are affiliate links. This means if you happen to make a purchase through the link, I might earn a small commission which helps me to keep my website running.

The Vertigos Restaurant Scottburgh

Nestled along the picturesque beachfront of Scottburgh, Vertigos is a beloved Pet-friendly restaurant that offers diners a breathtaking view of the pristine Scottburgh beach. Besides the view and great food, Vertigo’s Restaurant and Bar is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, top-notch service, and welcoming guests and furry companions.

During our stay on the KZN South Coast, we had the pleasure of dining there three times and were consistently impressed by the food and service. The menu boasts a diverse array of options. I was particularly impressed with their reasonably priced seafood platter and flavourful ribs.

Notably, Nazreen Ishwar’s dedication to ensuring all patrons have a thoroughly enjoyable dining experience truly sets Vertigos apart.

John Dory

The beachfront John Dory restaurant offers a variety of mouth-watering grills for the whole family. Fish lovers can expect fresh fish and chips, tasty seafood platters, and sushi. In a family-friendly environment, John Dory in Scottburgh allows pets when sitting outside.

Umdoni Golf Club Restaurant

The Umdoni Golf Club Restaurant & Bar, on the edge of the indigenous forest, offers a sea view and a diverse menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Tél. 039 975 1615.

The Frenchman

Indulge in outstanding cuisine crafted by Julian, a French chef who channels his passion for food into every dish. With personalised service, Julian’s cuisine will make you smile, from seafood, to steak, or curry. Location: 7 Cordiner Street, Scottburgh, Tel. 076 904 1477.

Enzo Pizza Scottburgh

For an Italian atmosphere, pizzas and pasta, visit Enzo’s at 129 Marine Terrace, Scottburgh. To book, contact +27 39 978 3674

The Italian club

Nestled within the Umdoni Points sports and leisure club, the Italian Club is the ultimate destination for those seeking authentic Italian pizzas and ice-cold beers. Whether you want a laid-back place to enjoy dinner or a lively night out with friends, Umdoni Italian Club restaurant has you covered – 071 492 5647.

Park Rynie Restaurants

The Bell

The pet-friendly Bell restaurant is within the picturesque Rocky Bay Resort in Park Rynie and offers a relaxing vibe with sweeping sea views. It has indoor and outdoor seating and is renowned for its friendly, attentive service, excellent food, and Sunday lunch buffets. Our visits to this gem have always been delightful.

The Bell’s Menu features an array of delights, from tantalising coffees to exquisite desserts, as well as mouthwatering options such as burgers, sushi, fish and chips, bunny chow, and chicken cordon bleu. Sports enthusiasts can also enjoy watching cricket matches on the Big screen. Additionally, they allowed us to bring our beloved Jack Russell, Dashuri, inside during chilly weather, adding warmth to the already welcoming atmosphere. Contact no. 039 978 1483

Resorts and Camping Sites KwaZulu-Natal South Coast

Discover the top-notch pet-friendly camping KZN South Coast Caravan Parks that grace the scenic South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. KZN features some of the best-rated campsites in the country. Besides, the enchanting Campsites South Coast KZN will welcome your beloved four-legged companions. Camping on the picturesque South Coast of South Africa immerses you in breathtaking sights and dolphin and whale viewing. So let us dive into the recommended Caravan Parks on the South Coast, KZN.

🏡 Beachfront Accommodation South Coast KZN

From the Best Hotels, Mdoni House Guest Lodge on the KZN South Coast to self-catering accommodations.

As South Africa’s largest Caravan Park, Scottburgh, the beautiful Scottburgh Caravan Resort overlooks the Indian Ocean. With 260 sites, it is one of the most popular Caravan parks on the KZN South Coast. They offer discounted rates for pensioners.

There is a coffee shop, water slides, mini golf, and shops and restaurants within walking distance of the resort. They’re also known as a South Coast pet-friendly caravan park.
Self-catering accommodation right on the beach with 24/7 security and access control (it sleeps up to 6), has DSTV, cleaning services, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
To book, dial 039 976 0291, or email. [email protected]. To get there, coordinates. GPS: S30° 16.997′; E30° 45.569′

The Rocky Bay Caravan Park is one of our favourite Resorts and South Coast Parks KZN. The resort provides Rocky Bay Campsites and beautiful wooden cabins with ocean views and is one of our preferred KZN South Coast Caravan Parks.

Amenities include a large swimming pool, an on-site shop, a games room, and a kids’ play area. Clean ablutions and laundry facilities are also available.
Small pets are welcome with prior arrangements, and pensioners get discounted rates out of season, and some campsites have Private beach access.
Unfortunately, they removed all the braais at the campsites so you have to take your own. Where is Rocky Bay? It is 6km south of Scottburgh, Old Main Road, Park Rynie. GPS coordinates: S30° 20.120′, E30° 43.923—Tel. +27 (0)39 976 0336.

Pennington Caravan Parks

The Happy Wanderers Caravan Park offers beautiful log cabins and Camping sites on Kwazulu Natal south coast, within meters of the beach. Campers can choose between 86 sites, some nestled under beautiful indigenous Milkwood trees.

They have braai stands, so you don’t have to take your own.
The kiddies and a large swimming pool overlook the Indian Ocean and are next to the family-friendly restaurant. To book, contact Happy Wanderers Caravan Park at 039 975 1104/1155 – [email protected].

The Caravan Cove Caravan Park is located on the Upper KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, Park Rynie, only 6 km south of Scottburgh. It offers Caravan camping sites, self-catering accommodations, and private beach access.

The Caravan Cove amenities include two swimming pools, a kiddie’s playground, and a fully equipped games room.

Campsites

The park offers a variety of grassy campsites with 15amp power points. All roads are tarred, and small dogs (weighing up to 5 Kg) may be allowed with prior permission from the owners.

Caravan cove chalets

We have comfortable chalets sleeping 2-8 people, each with separate bathrooms/showers and kitchens. There are five clean ablution blocks with hot water, scullery facilities, as well as laundry services. Contact no. 039 9761215, and for a resort map, visit Caravan Cove Resort Layout.

If you’re looking for a remotely quiet campsite South Coast KZN, with open spaces and away from shops and the buzz and buss, Mac Nicol’s Caravan Resort fits the description. Situated on the banks of the Ifafa Lagoon, the 4-star resort is only 90 m from Bazley beach KZN.

Mcnicol caravan park campsites

When camping in KwaZulu Natal at Mac Nicol’s, you have the option to choose between 9 areas, on the Bazleys resort layout. These include the Lagoon, Fish Eagle, Private Ablutions Area, Froggy Pond, Bazley Park, Mango Valley, Stream Area, Upper Area, and River View. All sites are spacious with a 10-amp electricity supply. Amenities include ablutions, a fully equipped laundry, as well as a well-stocked shop, and a bottle store.

Bazley Resort Log Cabins

The resort features eight exquisite luxury log cabins, each offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lagoon and the tranquil sea.

Things to do at Bazley Resort

The Mac Nicols Bazley Resort is famous for its longstanding tradition of serving tea and scones daily at 10:30 a.m. Additionally, they host pancake events, as well as bring-and-braai evenings.

Two swimming pools, one gets heated in the cooler months, a tv room, trampolines and a jungle gym. During peak seasons, there are live entertainment and a program to keep kids thoroughly entertained.

Outdoor activities like exploring the Bazley Trails and canoeing in the lagoon.

Wander further away and visit the astonishing Hibiscus Coast on the lower South Coast, home to the famous Oribi Gorge. Or venture further up North to Durban and the Elephant Coast.

👉 🌊🌿 Discover more in my in-depth KwaZulu-Natal travel guide.