Port Shepstone
The Port Shepstone Museum details the town’s maritime history. Founded in 1867 when marble was discovered near the mouth of the Umzimkulu River, the town flourished from 1879 when William Bazley blasted away the rocks at the mouth to create the Umzimkulu breakwater. British adventures, Norwegian settlers, Indian entrepreneurs and many sugar plantation labourers settled here. Artifacts of the Khoi & San people have been found. Dick King encountered the daunting Umzimkulu mouth in his epic horseback ride to get help for the British forces under siege at Durban’s Old Fort. A visit to the Port Shepstone Lighthouse is an interesting and informative lesson. The Kapenta Bay Resort and Conference Hotel can be found on the beachfront of Port Shepstone, where up to 300 delegates can be accommodated at one time.
Shelly Beach
One of the fastest growing towns in the South Coast. It is a launch spot for many ocean adventures, scuba diving at Protea Banks, dolphin & whale watching or deep sea fishing. You can also take a boat trip to view the shark nets and learn about the role sharks play in the ecology and tourism of the coastline.
The South Coast Malls boasts 80 shops and includes Mugg & Bean, Ocean Basket, Mr Price Home, Game and Checkers amongst its anchor tenants.
The Shelly Centre boasts 114 shops, 6 cinemas, 11 restaurants and 5 banks, with Pick ‘n Pay, Edgars and Mr Price being major tenants.
The skyline Nature Reserve near Shelly Beach has some 76 indigenous coastal tree species, 300 other indigenous trees and 400 exotic species. Well worth taking a stroll in the forest.
Margate
Margate is a vibrant holiday mecca, with scores of restaurants, bars, and shops, Volleyball and touch rugby games can be played on the sprawling 1km beach, or you can shop in the quaint shops or along the beach for surf ware, crafts and collectables. Take a walk next to the beach to the fishing pier along the recently renovated promenade road. In nearby Kwa Gamalakhe, tour groups offer community-based tour with accredited local guides where you can learn about the traditions of Zulu folks.
Port Edward
This is our most southern town which is bordered by the Umtamvuna River Gorge. Places like Silver Beach (popular for sun – worshippers) and Splash Rock (rock fishing, surf fishing and ski boat launching, Sao Joao Monument (place to watch whales & dolphins) and North Sand Bluff Lighthouse are well known. Water Skiing, jet skiing, hiking and mountain bike trails are available. The Mars-like Red Desert (smallest desert in the world), Beaver Creek Coffee Farm on Cragadour Ridge and the Space Centre (private collection of astronomical and optical equipment) are well worth a visit. The impressive Wild Coast Sun Resort and Casino complex is just five minutes away. The Wild Coast Sun Country Club boasts a rugged and beautiful golf course, ranking in South Africa’s top 10 list. (Golf carts are compulsory.)
Wild Coast Water World can be reached on 039 305 3024 for information regarding their cruise boat, and jet skis, tube rides, water snake rides, speed boat rides, water skiing, motor boats, paddle boats and canoes.
What do our local beaches offer?
Shelly Beach
A shell collector’s paradise, where the finest miniature lady shells can be found hidden among the many varieties which make Shelly Beach famous.
St Michaels-on-sea
One of the best point breaks in South Africa, making it one of the finest local and international surfer’s beaches. Fun paddling boats and a tidal pool as well a giant slide during holiday seasons and two restaurants on the beach front as well.
Uvongo
Famous for its 23m waterfall, which plunges into one of the deepest lagoons in the country. Tidal pool, a baby paddling pool, fishing pier, paddling boats, tearoom and an Italian restaurant, sheltered from the wind.
Lucien Beach (Manaba)
Ample parking, tidal pool and long stretch of pristine white sand. Tuck shop and ablutions in parking lot.
Margate
This “Mile long” beach is a beehive of action and exciting entertainment in the school holidays with numerous restaurants, pubs and coffee shops. Daily vendor market on the pavement. Kiddies’ pool and tables and umbrellas available. Well known fishing pier for avid fishermen.
Ramsgate
Peaceful haven for those who enjoy the quieter life. Braai & picnic facilities in a park like shaded setting. Beautiful Ramsgate Ramble walkway as well as the Whaledeck which is a viewing deck to spot the whales in this lovely area. Many restaurants including the famous Waffle house. Take a walk through the Tanglewood Forest and visit the Resonant Circle. Paddle boats on the lagoon with a giant slide during holiday seasons.
