The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) South Coast, a renowned domestic holiday destination, is home to some of the country’s most interesting and diverse sites and activities. This Tourism Month, we’re celebrating by sharing the top 10 amazing facts about the region!
1. The KZN South Coast has the highest number of blue flag beaches in KZN
Within KZN, there are 6 Blue Flag beaches – an internationally-recognised demarcation of quality – and 5 of these are located on the KZN South Coast. With golden sands and the warm, Indian Ocean, visitors can enjoy bathing, surfing, snorkelling and diving along this beautiful coast.
2. The KZN South Coast is home to the smallest desert in the world
Situated just 10 kilometres from Port Edward is the Red Desert. Stretching 200 metres in diameter, this recently-proclaimed nature reserve is also the world’s smallest desert, and the site of many archaeological discoveries.
3. The KZN South Coast is also known as ‘The Golf Coast’
With 11 golf courses alongside oceans and coastal forests, there is a green for every golfer. The diverse courses can be found at Umkomaas, Scottburgh, Selborne Park, Umdoni, Port Shepstone, Harding, Margate, Southbroom, San Lameer, Port Edward and the Wild Coast Sun.
4. The KZN South Coast has two of the world’s top dive sites and Marine Protected Areas
Aliwal Shoal just 5km offshore of the Umkomaas River; and Protea Banks, 8km off Shelly Beach, are both world-revered dive sites, home to a number of ocean creatures. These wondrous ocean sites are both Marine Protected Areas and have prompted numerous international documentaries and attracted an influx of global tourists.
5. The KZN South Coast has the only MSA-approved racing track in KZN
Dezzi Raceway in Port Shepstone is the only Motorsport South Africa (MSA)-approved racing track in the province, and the host of numerous prestigious motorsport events. The track includes two purpose-built drift circuits for high-octane entertainment!
6. The KZN South Coasts enjoys the annual Sardine Run #GreatestShoalOnEarth
Winter brings the planet’s biggest biomass migration close inshore of the region, giving visitors front-row seats to the ocean-based feeding frenzy. This is a must-see annual spectacle, as shoals of silver fish are followed by bigger fish, sharks, dolphins, whales and sea birds.
7. The KZN South Coast has the highest gorge swing in the world
The Wild Gorge Swing in Oribi Gorge is the highest swing of its kind in the world. Located at the top of Lehr’s Waterfall, the swing is the equivalent of launching off a 55-storey building (165 metres). A definite bucket list addition for any thrill-seeker.
8. The KZN South Coast has the most tidal pools in KZN
This family-friendly swimming destination has several tidal pools which provide sheltered beach swimming regardless of the surf conditions.
9. The KZN South Coast witnesses annual the Humpback Whale migration
Between June and December, more than 30 000 Humpback Whales participate in the annual migration which can be viewed from any of the 58 KZN South Coast beaches, and the many oceanside restaurants and cafés.
10. The KZN South Coast is an affordable holiday destination
With so many unique, family-friendly holiday activities, and a variety of accommodation options, the KZN South Coast is also an incredibly affordable domestic destination for the entire family. With 2020 proving a financially-constrained time for many South Africans, the area is emerging as a prime holiday spot for those wanting to maximise on family time, without breaking the budget.
“These are just a selection of the many unique and enriching sites and activities that can be found on the KZN South Coast,” explained CEO of Ugu South Coast Tourism, Phelisa Mangcu. “As an affordable destination offering all manner of nature-based, outdoor activities, the region is the perfect location for those wanting to unwind and reconnect with family after a challenging year. This truly is #ParadiseForEveryone.”
USCT is continuously encouraging all tourism establishments to adhere to the strict TBCSA (Tourism Business Council of South Africa)-developed Covid-19 health and safety protocols, which have received the stamp of approval from the World Travel & Tourism Council. This ensures a ‘safecation’ for all visitors.
For more information on the KZN South Coast, download the free ‘Explore KZN South Coast’ app from Google Play and Apple stores or visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za. Alternatively, follow ‘South Coast Tourism’ on Facebook and YouTube, or @infosouthcoast on Twitter and Instagram.
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