Scottburgh Beach

Scottburgh Beach lies on a curved bay of KwaZulu-Natal province’s South Coast region. It is reached via a footpath that runs across an area of grass perfect for games or for sitting down to a picnic. Its position on the south bank of the Mpambanyoni River as it exits the Indian Ocean means visitors are able to enjoy not only the ocean waves but also a quiet lagoon. What’s more, two large tidal pools give less confident swimmers the chance to enter the warm waters in a more protected setting.

Of high-enough quality to have previously been awarded Blue Flag status, Scottburgh Beach is a hub for South Africa’s domestic tourist market in particular, leading to a huge range of activities on offer. The waves that roll onto Scottburgh Beach have made it something of a surfing hotspot, with the breaks thought to be at their best during the South African winter, centred around the months of July and August.

However, Scottburgh Beach remains a good place for beginner surfers to get onto a board for the first time, with a good range of surf shops hiring out kit and offering lessons. Canoes can also be hired to explore the lagoon. Bicycle trails criss-cross the area, while shark cages are also available for those looking for the thrill of diving with great whites.