Top SA beaches
2012-09-27 09:04
Beaches really are a playground for creating fond memories. The smell of the ocean, the rhythmic sound of the waves, endless summer days relaxing with a good book or your favourite ipod playlist. Not forgetting lots of sunscreen or the exhilaration of high-spirited beach games like volley ball or Frisbee.
South Africa boasts 2 798 kilometers of coastline and since Cape Town has just been name Best Beach Destination in the Africa leg of the World Travel Awards - this means you're sure to find the ideal spot for a sun-kissed break, here's our top selection...
Clifton, Cape Town - (Blue Flag)
Clifton beach is sexy, exactly like the people who frequently sun worship here. Said to be the most sought-after real estate
in Southern Africa, it is made up of four beaches lined by the most exquisite
beach houses you’ve ever seen, not to mention a hotbed of bronzed bodies
during the peak summer season. This beach is in a league of its own, so let's just leave it at that.
Clifton is prime real estate. Photo: Shutterstock
Boulders Beach, Cape Town
Yes, Clifton is to die for, but we simply love Boulders Beach for its endearing charm. Nestled in False Bay and close to Simon’s Town, this sheltered beach is made up of natural pools between granite boulders, hence the name. It’s also quite popular thanks to a colony of African penguins who decided to make it their home back in 1982.
Boulders beach. Photo: Shutterstock
Camps Bay, Cape Town - (Blue Flag)
Said to be SA’s very own Miami Strip. Camps Bay beach is
a major tourist attraction for those visiting the Mother City. The sandy jewel found just
beneath Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles mountains, it is breathtakingly
beautiful and provides an ideal place to enjoy summer cocktails at
sunset.
Camps Bay from Table Mountain. Photo: www.wikimediacommon.org
Robberg Beach, Plettenberg Bay (Blue Flag)
This beach is one of the
reasons why Plett is a firm Garden Route favourite. Ideal for extended walks as it stretches between the Robberg Peninsula and Beacon Island.
Don’t be surprised if you spot a pod of whales or a dolphin or two
during your stroll.
Robberg Beach, Plett. Photo: BlueFlag.co.za
Noetzie Beach
Formerly known as Knysna’s secret beach, it
has since become more well-known since the arrival of the Pezula
Castle. There are no through roads to the beach and a short trek gets
you to the bottom. The effort is definitely worth it though.
Noetzie Beach, Knysna. Photo: Neill Ellis
Dolphin Beach, Jeffereys Bay
J-Bay is famous for surfing,
which mostly happens in at Super Tubes but Dolphin beach, the main beach
in the area, is the place to sunbath along with the locals. Also Blue
Flag in status thanks to its water safety and environmental
responsibility.
Dolphin Beach. Photo: BlueFlag.co.za
North Beach, Durban
As one of the busiest beaches on Durban’s Golden Mile, North Beach needs little introduction. It screams typical Indian ocean jewel as does the breakwaters despite its busyness. This is definitely a family beach as the promenade spills over with entertainment - pools, fun-fair type attractions, restaurants and lots of shops.
Durban beachfront. Photo: Shutterstock
Margate Beach, KwaZulu-Natal (Blue Flag)
Margate has been described as postcard perfect with its tropical
atmosphere. Just over 1km long it is a firm favourite with families over
the festive season, with lots of activities and festivals to keep
everybody entertained.
Margate Beach, KZN. Photo: www.Margate-holidays.co.za
Bronze Beach, Umhlanga
Umhlanga, just outside of Durban, is lined with many resort hotels giving the area a distinctive holiday feel. About 500m up from the main beach you'll find Bronze beach which is popular with both bathers and surfers alike.
Bronze Beach, Umhlanga. Photo: www.durban.gov.org
What's your favourite beach, why not post a comment below or enter our photo competition to win a R250 Kalahari.com voucher
