KwaZulu-Natal : North Coast
Overview
With its warm waters, subtropical climate and a host of activities for the holiday
maker or tourist, the Kwa Zulu-Natal North Coast is one of South Africa’s most popular
vacation destinations. The North Coast is a coastal strip stretching from the northern
regions of the Durban metropolitan area to the Tugela river in the north. Well known
for the various species of dolphins that can be seen frolicking in the coastal waters,
the area is also known as the KZN’s Dolphin Coast.
Surrounded by lush green vegetation and fringed by the warm Indian Ocean, the golden
beaches of the North Coast are a sub-tropical paradise, interspersed with coastal
towns and villages. Accommodation in these towns range from luxury hotels, to self
catering houses and apartments to rent. The North Coast is a place to indulge the
senses - either in good restaurants offering fine dining, or partying in nightclubs.
Tee off on the excellent golf courses, or for the sheer thrill of it - take to the
air in a microlight and see this magnificent coastline as the seagulls see it.
Things to do and see
The North Coast is a great family beach holiday destination so if you are looking
for time relax, soak up the sun or cool off in the balmy waters of the Indian Ocean,
this is an ideal place to visit. Off course there is much more to do and see and
the Dolphin Coasts has quite a few special treats up its sleeve. Surfing, snorkeling
and scuba diving are popular options for those seeking some water activities. A
visit to the KZN Sharks Board offers more than just a glimpse into the
world of
these much-feared but little-understood predators. Or you could opt to just stroll
or take a horse-ride along the North Coast at low tide and search for sea life,
climb rocky outcrops or enjoy a spot of angling.
The KZN North Coast is also steeped in history.
You can learn all about King Shaka
form a visit to the King Shaka Memorial situated in KwaDukuza or visit the Dukuza
Museum also situated in KwaDukuza/ Stanger which focuses on the Zulu culture, sugar
can industry, Indian culture and the early settler history. The North Coast is also
home to a large Indian community. Look out for their temples, sample their spicy
foodstuffs or shop for fresh produce at any of the numerous markets located in the area.
The North Coast is very popular with golf players. Just a few kilometres outside
Stanger, between sugarcane plantations and the Indian Ocean, lies one of the best
golf courses of South Africa, the Prince's Grant Golf Estate. The 18-hole course
is not easy with quite a few steep climbs and offers the golfers fantastic views
of the ocean. The Zimbali Golf Estate, near Balito, offers 18 holes amidst the stunning
beauty of the coastal forest.
For the outdoor enthusiasts the Dolphin Coast also offers activities ranging from
deep
sea fishing and hiking to horseriding and canoeing.
The North Coast is a place to enjoy, relax, kick back, and savour your surrounds.
Come and enjoy
Climate
The
KwaZulu-Natal North Coast generally has a subtropical climate. The annual rainfall
for the area is about of 1100mm, which falls mainly in the summer months between
October and April. Daytime temperatures are usually quite high in the summer months
and range between 28°C and 21°C. During the winter the daytime highs drop to between
23°C and 11°C). During the summer months, high levels of humidity can be expected.
Accommodation
Because the North Coast is a very popular vacation destination for both local and
international tourists and holiday makers, accommodation on the KZN North Coast
is usually of a high standard. Accommodation options ranges from ultra luxury hotels,
tourist hotels, guest houses, bed and breakfasts and self catering houses and apartments.
For those seeking to camp or bringing their caravans, the North Coast also offers
a wide variety of camping grounds.
Towns and Cities
The KwaZulu Natal North Coast is home to the following wonderful coastal holiday
towns, all offering various levels of accommodation
Ballito
Blythedale Beach
Darnall
La Mercy
Prince’s Grant
Salt Rock
Shaka’s Rock
Sheffield Beach
Stanger /KwaDukuza
Tinley Manor
Umdloti Beach
Umhlali
Umvoti River Mouth
Westbrook Beach
Zimbali
Zinkwazi Beach.