Best Beaches in KwaZulu-Natal South Africa  by Gerald Crawford

These beaches offer something for everyone, from protected beaches for family outings to the more untamed beaches that are a surfer's paradise. Scuba dive or snorkel on the Elephant Coast or enjoy the holiday vibe at one of the South Coast's four "blue flag" beaches.

The beaches offer plenty of relaxation and sporting opportunities, including surfing, boating, fishing and whale and dolphin watching, or for the more adventurous take a trip in a microlight to enjoy the spectacular view from above. It is also a surfer's paradise, offering some of the best waves in the country. There are great waves wherever you go, with warm waters all year around, so that you need little more than a spring wetsuit for warmth, and on hot summer days even this is not a necessity.

Winter heralds the start of the true surf season, with breezy eight-foot swells sweeping in from the Cape coast between May and August. The swells are a bit smaller in the summer months, offering fun surf at the many beach breaks, with most surfers taking advantage of the wind-free mornings before the north-eastern winds pick up.

With some 600 kilometres of coastline only a handful of popular breaks get crowded, but many quieter waves can be found along the coast, with many good roads making for easy access. With all this on offer any surf fanatic would be sorry to miss this awesome coastline, and your adventure could even find you surfing a strip of coast that has never before been touched!

The KZN Southcoast is home to a range of "Blue flag" beaches.

MARGATE BEACH:

A mile long beach on the South Coast, ideal for swimming, bodyboarding and surfing. There is also a famous fishing spot off a specially-constructed pier. Margate is a vibrant holiday town with dozens of restaurants, bars and shops, plus accommodation to suit any budget.

MARINA / SAN LAMEER:

A beautiful, long sandy beach with an adjacent tidal pool. The beach is located between Southbroom and San Lameer and is close to the Trafalgar Marine Reserve and Mpenjati river mouth and lagoon. Lifeguards are always in attendance and facilities are maintained in top class standards throughout the year. Easy access for the disabled

RAMSGATE BEACH:

Ramsgate is a quaint village just south of Margate. A quiet beach with picnic facilities in a park-like setting provides a peaceful haven from the bustling beach towns. An easy walking trail extends southwards from Ramsgate towards the picturesque Southbroom beach and lagoon.

HIBBERDENE BEACH:

Based on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Hibberdene is a relatively narrow beach which is sheltered from the southerly winds. The often steeply sloped beach has good waves. A grassy picnic area makes it ideal for families. A new boat launching site has been developed alongside the Blue Flag area.

LUCIEN BEACH:

Lucien beach, which lies to the north east of Margate main beach, is a quiet but popular beach accessible by a steep set of stairs. Top class lifesaving facilities are in place in a new building which has lots of parking. The elevated parking area provides good views of the sea and coast stretching towards Margate. A good place to park and then walk along the coast towards Uvongo - a pleasant walk with views of dolphins and other sea-life. Easily accessible from the adjacent holiday flats.

WILLARD BEACH:

This is the main swimming beach in Ballito, 'Pearl' of the North Coast. A 2.4 km boardwalk follows the shoreline southwards providing an opportunity for an easy stroll with spectacular views of bays and coves. A more rugged trail extends northwards from Willard to Shaka's Rock which takes you through a hole in a cliff – best attempted at low tide.

About the Author:

Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za