KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast is the ultimate group getaway

From the world’s tiniest desert to homegrown coffee and shark diving – there’s something for everyone

When it comes to group getaways we say the more the merrier! With the country now on level 1 and the summer sunshine warming up Mzansi, we can't think of a better cure to a long winter and lockdown than a fantastic group getaway. And whether you are planning a family reunion or just looking for a fun group getaway KZN's South Coast has it all.

When planning a trip like this it is vital to choose a destination that works for everyone. KwaZulu-Natal’s glistening South Coast region is a bustling hub of beachside activities as well as exciting inland activities that cater to a variety of travellers. 

Whether it’s diving with ragged-tooth sharks, swinging wildly in the rugged Oribi Gorge mountainside, or enjoying a cup of locally grown and produced coffee – there’s something for everyone in the group to enjoy. 

Get a closer look at some of the highlights of the region below:

Now that you’ve got a teaser into the fun that awaits you in the diverse South Coast region, buff out your groupie itinerary by adding some of the fun available below:

For the water babies

A visit to the South Coast region guarantees you a plethora of thrilling beachside and water fun activities. Visitors can enjoy shark cage diving or cage-free diving alongside ragged-tooth sharks as well as scuba diving offers available along the Protea Banks off Shelley Beach or Aliwal Shoal off Umkomaas and Scottborough. 

Guests are also able to catch some waves in the warm water beaches, indulge in sunset fishing opportunities, and set their sights on some playful dolphins and whales who migrate past the sunny coastline. 

Those looking for a more freshwater experience needn’t wander too far, a quick trip inland from Port Shepstone will have you immersed in the plush hills and valleys of Oribi Gorge. Here you’ll find yourself immersed in an ethereal natural landscape with waterfalls and rivers that vein the valleys and break the cliffs for you to enjoy and engage in some exhilarating white-water rafting. 

For the wild chasers

Aside from the pool of water-based activities available on the South Coast, you’ll also be able to feed your need for more rugged landscapes and nature escapes. The Oribi Gorge offers a host of mountainside activities for adrenaline seekers. You can explore the area with the available walking, biking, and hiking routes or unleash your wild side by abseiling, bungee jumping, and taking to the suspension bridge to soak up the vistas. 

Another short trek off the coastline will have you in the heart of the world’s tiniest desert – the Red Desert Nature Reserve. You get to experience a taste of your desert adventurer side while exploring the humble desert that spans 200 metres in diameter or 11 hectares in its entirety. Often referred to as a miniature version of the Arizona Desert, this vibrant little landscape and rocky desert makes its unique mark by sitting a convenient 5km from the shore. 

For a taste of wildlife, a visit to Umtamvuna and Vernon Crookes will have you surrounded by more than 400 species of birds as well as a vibrant flora landscape.

For the cafe lovers

For those looking for more of a relaxed and cosy stay, the South Coast doesn’t disappoint. To experience a taste of culture, visitors can take a short journey inland to the Mthwalume district, home to the Ntelezi Msani Heritage Centre. Here you’ll be able to explore the local Zulu culture through the beauty and intricacy of Zulu beadwork. 

To indulge your sense of luxury and your sweet tooth - a short drive from the beach-side will have you at The Waffle House in Margate, where you’ll get to choose from a range of decadent sweet and savoury waffles. 

Another short drive will place you in the centre of the world’s southernmost coffee plantation – Beaver Creek Coffee. The locally grown and produced coffee is fragrant and rich with fruity notes in their signature blend – giving you an authentic taste of the wonders the South Coast soil has to offer. The estate also features a range of activities including crop-to-cup plantation tours and mountain bike tracks, but overall – it offers you a great spot to unwind and soak up some good food and a delicious cup of coffee. 

These are just some of the offers you’ll find calling the South Coast home – with even more activities woven between. These make it the ideal groupie getaway – allowing you a perfect balance of action, sights, relaxation, and a well-rounded trip that caters to everyone’s interests. 

Find out more about the South Coast here and explore some of the exciting travel specials up for grabs to plan your next visit.