The KZN Hibiscus Coast of South Africa Guide

Stretch of Beach with lush green vegetation on the South Coast Kwazulu Natal, South Africa #KZNcoastline

The Hibiscus Coast KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a sub-tropical paradise that provides a year-round escape for those searching for sun and sea. It is situated 103 km south of Durban, starting at the coastal town of Hibberdene and extending down to Port Edward. Known for its sub-tropical climate, golden beaches, and warm waters, making it a perfect destination for a sunny beach holiday. Holiday resorts in KZN’s Hibiscus Coast offer everything you need for an unforgettable family beach getaway. If you plan a trip to the Hibiscus Coast, check out this Hibiscus Coast travel blog insider’s guide to the best places to visit on the Hibiscus Coast.

Hibiscus Coast Travel advice

Why is the lower part of the KZN South Coast called the Hibiscus Coast? The KZN Hibiscus Coast South Africa derives its name from the thousands of beautiful hibiscus shrubs that bloom along this part of the coast. The lower South Coast Hibiscus Coast map includes towns and villages comprising Hibberdene, Port Shepstone, Shelly Beach, Uvongo, Margate, Ramsgate, Southbroom, Marina Beach, San Lameer, Trafalgar, Palm Beach, Munster, Glenmore, Leisure Bay, and Port Edward. After the 2016 elections, The Hibiscus Coast Municipality merged with the Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality.

How to get to the Hibiscus Coast?

There are three ways to get to the Hibiscus Coast from Durban or Johannesburg: by plane to Margate Airport, by car, or by bus. When travelling from Durban, the 103km drive to Hibberdene, the gateway to the Hibiscus Coast, takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. If driving from Johannesburg, the journey to the Hibiscus Coast will take around 8 hours via the N3. Unfortunately, road work is frequently underway and with no train system in place, many trucks are on the road, leading to slow-moving traffic.

A flight from Johannesburg to Margate takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, and from King Shaka International Airport to Margate Airport takes approximately 41 minutes. A shuttle bus ride from Durban to the Hibiscus Coast takes about 2.5 hours. Renting a car might be your best option, as you will also have wheels to enjoy the journey and travel around the Hibiscus Coast.

The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast proudly boasts the highest number of Blue Flag Beaches in KZN. One of the best things to do on the Hibiscus Coast is to immerse yourself in the refreshing surf, explore the vibrant marine life while snorkelling in rock pools, and unwind as you marvel at the rhythmic waves caressing the shore. We always visit one of the Hibiscus Coast beaches to take long walks on the golden sand and appreciate the fresh ocean air. It’s common to catch glimpses of playful dolphins frolicking in the surf and witness majestic whales breaching and creating spectacular fountains as they slap their tails in the deeper waters.

Blue Flag Beaches

The Hibiscus Coast KwaZulu-Natal is renowned for its picturesque blue-flag beaches, which have met strict world standards for cleanliness and safety. Beach hopping on the Hibiscus Coast to these blue-flag beaches on the South Coast include Marina Beach, Trafalgar, Southport, Umzumbe, Ramsgate, and St. Michaels. You might want to check out other beaches: Banana Beach, Uvongo Beach, Lucien, Southbroom, Shelly Beach, and Port Edward Beach.

St Michaels on Sea reigns as a favoured vacation spot known as the Hibiscus Coast’s prime surfing location and KZN swimming beach. The quaint coastal village of St. Michaels on Sea is nestled between Shelly Beach and Uvongo on the Hibiscus Coast and a mere 6-minute drive from Margate. It is one of the top attractions in Shelly Beach, offering an idyllic setting to witness surfers mastering the waves at sunrise. It boasts a stunning expanse of beach, a secure swimming area with lifeguards, a sea—and a children’s pool. Besides being home to the finest dining establishments, read about the St. Michaels Resort.

Trafalgar Beach is a peaceful and picturesque seaside village between San Lameer and Palm Beach on the northern edge of the Mpenjati Nature Reserve. It features a Blue Flag Beach with tidal pools and a Marine Protected Area. Despite being one of the best wind sports spots in the world, it seems relatively unknown to many kitesurfers.

Sunrise over the Ocean at Holiday resort in KZNouth Coast
Sunrise over the Ocean at Holiday resort in KZN

2. Barbeque on Palm Beach

Palm Beach is the ideal place to experience the joy of having a traditional South African barbecue. While not all beaches permit open fires and barbecues, Palm Beach KZN do and provides a delightful setting under the shade of trees with built-in barbecue facilities so you can have a braai on the beach. Growing up on the South Coast, I will always cherish the memories of our family visiting Palm Beach in the late afternoon for a barbecue at the beach.

San Lameer Beach and Palmbeach are excellent kite- and windsurfing spots on the Hibiscus Coast. So this is your chance to go windsurfing, kitesurfing, or kiteboarding at one of these holiday resorts in KZN. Located between Palm Beach and Trafalgar, the Mpenjati Nature Reserve offers captivating walking trails that wind through the coastal forest.

Margate’s beaches are popular but get very busy during the Holiday season. Margate is a popular seaside town that boasts restaurants and lots of activities. Besides the beaches in Margate Kwazulu Natal, there is a large swimming pool, super tube rides, bowling, and many restaurants and shops.

Beaver Creek Coffee Estate is a mere 6,6km outside Port Edward on the Izingolweni Road and is about a 10-minute drive. The popular Beaver Creek Coffee Farm is more than a coffee roastery known for brewing coffee since 1984. They blend imported and locally grown coffee beans to create the finest brews. Visit their coffee shop to sample freshly brewed coffee while enjoying delectable fresh bakes and light meals. They’re also known for Crop-to-Cup Tours, where you can experience the full process from planting the coffee cherries up to the coffee-making process.

4. Horse riding on the Beach

Selsdon Park Estate Beach Horse Rides are available on the Hibiscus Coast. Horse riding along the coast is a great family activity and a great experience. Selsdon offers rides for riders of all levels, from beginners to experienced. Booking is required with Mark at 083 301 2941 via call or WhatsApp.

If you’re seeking something more adventurous than beach activities and KZN tours on the Hibiscus Coast, you can rent a kayak or a canoe to enjoy the fresh air at one of the lagoons or even the sea. Several popular rental spots are available at Holiday resorts in KZN, such as Bazley Beach, Uvongo, and St. Michael’s-on-Sea. Additionally, children can have fun with paddle boats at St. Michaels and Uvongo Beach, where lagoons are present.

The stunning South Coast of Kwazulu Natal remains a favoured hotspot for surfers, drawn in by its undeniable allure. The magical sight of surfers riding the waves during sunrise is a spectacle at the beautiful St. Michael on Sea Beach. The Hibiscus Coast is an absolute paradise for surfing enthusiasts throughout the year. With numerous surf shops nearby, where one can procure top-notch equipment and partake in lessons to hone their surfing skills.

Surfing is a trendy sport on the South Coast. The sub-tropical climate allows year-round surfing, with the winter months producing world-class waves at some popular surf breaks. If this is your first time surfing, then get a few lessons to get started. The local surf shop should be able to put you in touch with a surf instructor in your area.

If you’re up for a challenge and seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure, head to Oribi Gorge. Activities at Oribi Gorge vary from hiking to extreme sports activities. Oribi Nature Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal is renowned for offering thrilling adventures such as abseiling, the Oribi Gorge Swing, and bungee jumping Oribi Gorge. Which adrenaline-pumping activities are you considering?

Woman Abseiling at Oribi Gorge Acivities at Oribi Gorge
Abseiling at Oribi Gorge

Fishing along the Hibiscus Coast of Kwazulu Natal is a dream for every angler, and with good reason. In addition to fishing from the shore or the rocks, deep-sea fishing on the Hibiscus Coast is highly rewarding. The picturesque South Coast is teeming with fantastic fishing opportunities, with many prime spots to cast your line. From the iconic Margate Pier to the scenic Orange Rocks in Uvongo and the mesmerizing Splash Rock in Port Edward. Make sure to obtain a fishing license before embarking on your fishing trip. You can get one online or at the nearest post office. For fishing gear, visit Gremlins Bait and Tackle shop in Margate.

The South Coast is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities, especially for deep-sea fishing charters, which are highly sought after. Joining a reputable fishing charter is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the excitement of deep-sea fishing without the need to worry about purchasing your gear. Local fishermen mostly run fishing charters and have years of experience.  For deep sea fishing on the Hibiscus Coast or any ski boat fishing, contact Shelly Beach Ski Boat Club at +27 082 777 7324.

For Fishing on the Upper South Coast, go to KZN South Coast Guide to see all the amazing places from Scottburg to Hibiscus Coast. For an optimal fishing experience, plan your trip during the winter months of May to August. This period coincides with the annual sardine run, drawing in large numbers of Shad that are easy to catch from the shore. Take advantage of the natural wonder and ultimate South Coast adventure when billions of Sardines swim north up the Hibiscus Coast during the Sardine Migration.

Hibiscus Coast Game Reserves & Nature Reserves

The Crag’s View Wild Care Centre is the lower South Coast region’s only official wildlife rehabilitation centre. It is situated on the Crag’s View farm in Port Edward and rehabilitates orphaned and injured animals and birds. Humans mainly cause animal orphaning and injury, and it is crucial to educate everyone, including your children, on the importance of animal conservation. You can support the Centre by attending their tours and talks or donating. Some of the wild residents at the centre include antelope species, small mammals indigenous to the area, and various bird species. The centre needs all the support it can get.

Just a few kilometres from Port Edward, you’ll find the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve, home to the magnificent Umtamvuna Gorge. The reserve features several hiking trails through the riverine forest, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings. Enjoy hiking through the riverine forest along the Umtamvuna River and enjoy the awe-inspiring views from the Gorge’s summit. The reserve is also a sanctuary for a large colony of endangered Cape vultures that nest among the high cliffs.

Whenever you visit any Game Reserves on the South Coast of Kwazulu Natal, wear a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, and drink water. The Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, which manages the reserve, contact no. is 039 313 2383 or 039 311 2383

Located 25km inland from Port Shepstone, the picturesque Oribi Gorge nature reserve offers stunning views of the Umzinkulwana River gorge. It’s a haven for bird watchers, with several self-guided trails leading to beautiful vantage points. You’ll find tranquil picnic spots along the river banks, perfect for a relaxing day. When you stay at KZN Holiday Resorts, do visit one of the game lodges in Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, even just on a day trip.

Oribi Gorge Activities
Oribi Gorge Activities

Oribi Gorge, nestled on the stunning South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife. This awe-inspiring sanctuary owes its name to the elusive Oribi antelope that roams within its bounds. The gorge stretches approximately 400 meters (1,300 ft) deep and nearly 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) wide at its broadest point, showcasing a breathtaking landscape with a towering 330-meter-high chasm.

Sculpted by the unyielding force of the Umzimkulu River, the gorge features ancient 365-million-year-old sand and limestone cliffs adorned with a lush variety of plant life. Its lush expanse is cradled by the curved embrace of a river abounding with rapids and verdant forests. Oribi Gorge remains a closely guarded treasure, promising a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable adventure.

As one of the lower South Game lodges in Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, it entices and enchants travellers. It offers a range of accommodation options, from lavish retreats to charming self-catering lodges and even a riverside campsite beckoning you to immerse yourself in nature’s embrace. It is worth staying and revelling in its wonders for more than a day to savour all that Oribi Gorge game reserves in KwaZulu-Natal fully.

The Gorge at Oribi Gorge Nature reserve Resort in KZN
The Gorge at Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve Resort in KZN

Best Things to Do at Oribi Gorge

Oribi Gorge offers a range of activities, including hiking trails with stunning scenery and extreme adventure options, including:

  • Walking Trails and Hiking
  • Mountain Biking
  • Oribi Gorge Swing
  • River Rafting excursions
  • Oribi Bungee jumping
  • Visit the 150m Oribi Gorge waterfall
  • Picnicking and Birding
  • Oribi Gorge Abseiling
  • Being a birders’ paradise, remember your binoculars and cameras.
Oribi Gorge Nature reserve White water rafting Umzumkulu River KZN
Rafting The Mzimkulu River

Oribi White water Rafting

For an exhilarating experience and one of the best adventure activities on the South Coast, consider joining a rafting expedition on the Mzimkulu River. The expedition offers 4 to 6 hours of whitewater rafting through rapids of varying grades. You have the option to choose from one- or two-day tours.

Lake Eland Game Reserve is nestled within the breathtaking Oribi Gorge region. This nature reserve is a paradise boasting a rich tapestry of ecosystems, from expansive grasslands to verdant coastal forests and tranquil wetlands, providing a sanctuary for a diverse array of small animals and plants. Undoubtedly, one of the reserve’s most captivating features is the opportunity to traverse the gorge on an 80-meter suspension bridge, offering an awe-inspiring vantage point of the gorge below.

Whether you’re seeking a fun-filled family adventure, a romantic escapade, or a team-building retreat, Lake Eland provides the perfect backdrop. For the ultimate experience, plan to immerse yourself in the 2500 hectares of land for a few days; the reserve offers abundant activities and natural marvels to discover. Lake Eland Game Reserve also features stunning dams with fish species, including Barbel, Carp, Yellowfish, Tilapia, and Bass.

Where are Oribi Gorge & Lake Eland situated?

The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve and Lake Eland holiday resort in KZN are truly stunning destinations. Located just a scenic 30-kilometre drive west of Port Edward and easily accessible from Port Shepstone, these places offer breathtaking natural beauty. Despite the Reserve’s dirt roads, they are all well-maintained and accessible by normal sedan vehicles. GPS coordinates are 30.69165 and 30.17875; the contact number is 073 859 3446.

Lake Eland Nature Reserve Activities

  • Self- and Guided Game drives
  • Hiking trails and mountain biking
  • Lake Eland Zipline
  • Picnic- and Braai areas
  • Fishing and Camping
  • Track for 4×4 enthusiasts
  • Paintball & Horse Riding
  • Relax at Lake Eland Spa
  • Restaurant and shop
  • Marriage Chapel
  • Team building and conference facilities
  • Overnight accommodation
An Eland at Lake Eland Game Reserve at Resorts in KZN
Eland at Lake Eland Game Reserve

Lake Eland Zip Extreme

Wild 5 Adventures and Lake Eland Game Reserve offer the Zip Extreme at Oribi Gorge, Africa’s longest and fastest zipline. It spans a thrilling 4.5 km and can reach up to 160 km/h. As one of the popular holiday resorts in KZN, it is home to The Lake Eland Game Reserve Spa, located at D219 Oribi Flats East Oribi Gorge, 4240; contact no. 039 687 0395. See Lake Eland’s Pinterest Pin at the bottom of the post.

The St Michaels Sands Resort in Shelly Beach is a popular family Holiday Resort on the Hibiscus Coast. Overlooking the popular St. Michaels on Sea Beach, Lagoon, and some of the best restaurants in Shelly Beach. Located only 9km from Margate, the resort offers secure parking and 24-hour front desk service. Besides their new restaurant with fantastic views, the resort boasts a sun terrace, a large swimming pool, a garden with a playground for kids, putt-putt, a tennis court, snooker, and table tennis. Golf enthusiasts can also enjoy the services offered at the renowned St. Michaels Golf Club.

Guests who stay at the St.Michaels Timeshare Resort can enjoy friendly room service and complimentary Wi-Fi. The seafront and some units have a beautiful seating area with a flat-screen Television. Private rooms have quality bed linen, a safety deposit box, a TV, and a full bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Some units have a well-equipped kitchen and microwave to make your stay comfortable. The Seafront ground-floor cabanas have a grassed area, a large patio with barbecue facilities, comfortable deck chairs, and a patio set. Guests staying in hotel rooms have access to barbecue facilities.

On the Hibiscus Coastline, Port Edward is the nearest town to the Wild Coast, also known as the Transkei border. With its beautiful stretch of Port Edward Beach, it is a well-known safe spot for swimming in the sea or lagoon and taking long walks. The Port Edward Holiday Resort is home to the Estuary Hotel and Spa, a popular holiday destination for family vacations. It is situated in a peaceful environment and boasts excellent views of the beach and estuary. Relax next to their swimming pool with a cocktail, or enjoy a meal at the Estuary Fish Eagle Restaurant on the premises.

If you’re into angling, visit the famous Splash Rock near the main beach, the best fishing spot in Port Edward. The Estuary has a nice pool, and guests can enjoy nearby amenities like the famous Wild Coast Sun and Waterworld. Golfers can visit the nearby Port Edward Golf Club, the world-renowned Wild Coast Golf Course, and San Lameer Golf Club. Other nearby amenities include the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve, a 15-minute drive, and Beaver Creek Cafe for coffee and freshly baked goods.

The Sao Joao Portuguese Monument is a Port Edward shipwreck monument built to honour the people who lost their lives in 1552 when the ship Sao Joao sank off Port Edward waters while it was on its way to Portugal from India. It ran aground near Port Edward during a storm; only 21 people survived. This shipwreck was the first of a cargo ship on the South African coastline and led to the first encounter between Europeans and southern Africans.

Although diving is not allowed, you can see the monument on the North Sand Bluff. The North Sand Bluff Lighthouse, an automated lighthouse, is located near the village of Port Edward. Port Edward is situated at the mouth of the Mtamvuma River, which forms the border between KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.

The Wild Coast Sun in South Africa is only 5km south of Port Edward. This family-friendly Sun International Wild Coast Sun resort offers abundant entertainment for a luxurious family vacation. Nestled alongside the picturesque Umtamvuna River, The Riverside offers the perfect blend of a riverside haven, a vibrant beach bar, and a hub for water sports enthusiasts. Embrace the laid-back atmosphere as you indulge in a delightful barbecue and savour refreshing cocktails from our bar at the Wild Coast.

It’s home to a renowned casino and the Wild Waves Water Park, considered one of the best water theme parks in South Africa. Thrill-seekers can enjoy water rides and adrenaline-pumping slides like the Aqualoop, Superbowl, and Boomerango. Experience the magic of a river cruise as you watch the sunset over the tranquil waters. Indulge in a luxurious cruise along the Umtamvuna River in Port Edward, or opt for a delightful journey along the Umzimkulu River in Port Shepstone.

Guy on Jet ski in Ocean at The Wild Waves Water Park Port Edward
Wild Waves Water Park

The Wild Coast Sun Country Club boasts a world-class 18-hole golf course that’s among the top courses in Southern Africa. Golfing enthusiasts can also refine their swing at some of the best golf courses, including golf courses on the South Coast.

  • The St. Michaels Golf Course offers a picturesque 9-hole, 18-tee layout, providing an enjoyable but challenging experience.
  • Port Shepstone Golf Course is situated along the Umzimkulu River, providing a tranquil and scenic setting for golfing.
  • Margate Country Club features superb greens, especially the 9th & 18th holes, ending with par fives.
  • San Lameer Country Club’s par 72 course measures 6100m, and the 14th hole, a par 3, offers a picturesque coastline view.
  • Southbroom Golf Course features a challenging layout with stunning sea views from the 4th and 5th tees indefinitely, and something experienced golfers might want to check out.
  • Port Edward Country Club is known for inviting 19th holes, perfect for unwinding after a rewarding day on the Golf Coast.

Look for the colourful, classic airborne car outside to find the Munster Motor Museum. The museum entrance is 400m up the road on your right. At the Munster Museum, all car enthusiasts are welcome to explore the fascinating world of automotive history. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of exhibits and artefacts spanning seven decades. One highlight is the Kinsey family’s legacy, which dates back to my great-grandfather’s pioneering work in engine technology.

Her Majesty’s government of England officially recognised his innovative contributions to the internal combustion engine in 1870, documented in the prestigious London Gazette. These remarkable achievements are proudly displayed in the museum, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of automotive innovation.

Ramsgate Butterfly Farm is a popular tourist spot to visit while on holiday in KwaZulu-Natal. At Ramsgate Butterfly Valley, you can witness the complete life cycle of these fascinating creatures. The attraction operates seven days a week on Fascadale Road, Ramsgate Beach, Ramsgate, 4285. For more information, you can call 073 422 5357.

The South Coast of South Africa hosts one of the world’s most spectacular marine migrations. This natural phenomenon is a must-see experience for locals and visitors to holiday resorts in KwaZulu-Natal. It’s an ultimate bucket list addition for anyone exploring things to do in South Coast KZN. For all about this phenomenal wonder, visit the Sardine Run experience.

The Pont Holiday Resort is situated on the banks of the Mtamvuna River in KwaZulu-Natal. It is a family-friendly camping and water sports resort with a serene environment. The resort is a popular destination for holidaymakers seeking an escape in KZN. It has a fully licensed restaurant, a swimming pool, two freshwater boat launch sites, and a kids’ playground. If you want to visit the Old Pont Resort, you can find it at Lot 85/86 Old Pont Road, Port Edward, 4295. To enquire, their contact no. is 039 311-2211.

Nestled 10 kilometres west of Port Edward, you’ll find the world’s smallest desert. This remarkable 200-meter natural wonder is a pint-sized replica of the Arizona Desert with undulating hills and valleys of exposed red soil that starkly contrast with the luxuriant, tropical plant life surrounding it. To get there, visit the Rooiwoestyn.

The Riverbend Crocodile Farm is located in Southbroom, and it, too, is a great family destination with a coffee shop on the premises. This is the place, they say, where you can learn about crocodile feeding and hatching. Unfortunately, most reviews are not good, so please let me know about your experience at the Crocodile Farm.

The Shell Museum at Shelly Beach offers a captivating experience with its extensive showcase of exquisite shells. It’s a must-visit for shell enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the beauty of marine life.

Nothing compares to making cherished memories when sharing delicious food with loved ones around a table. Visit Hibiscus Coast restaurants for great food. I recommend you visit one or more of the following Top restaurants on the Hibiscus Coast.

Where to Stay – Holiday Resorts in KZN

There are different options for where to stay on the South Coast KZN, ranging from self-catering accommodations to luxury hotels. Another popular Holiday Resort in KZN is the Wild Coast Sun Resort, which is 5km outside Port Edward.

The upper part of the South Coast is the region from Hibberdene northwards to Scottburgh and is a region you won’t want to miss. Check out the amazing scenery and attractions on the upper KZN South Coast.

On your way back from the South Coast to Gauteng, extend your trip and visit the spectacular KZN Natal Midlands. The picturesque Midlands is known for its scenery and historical places. It’s also closer to the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.

Pin these for Later
Man enjoying a cup of Coffee at Beaver Creek Coffee Estate
Abseiling and other Activities at Lake Eland Game Reserve KZN

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2 Comments

  1. Awsome well done.

  2. A trip to South Africa is on the top of my bucket list! My boyfriend would love the surfing, and I have wanted to do a shark dive for as long as I can remember so will definitely be saving these links for later! Such a beautiful place I hope I can explore it one day soon.