In one of our previous posts, we spoke of how the South Coast is fast becoming one of the most sought after wedding destinations in the country. Its pristine, blue flag status beaches, calm all year round weather and tranquil setting are but a few of its attractions.

It doesn’t matter if you’re coming for a weekend wedding or a week long holiday, if you’re travelling with your bambinos or with your parents, if you’re an adventurer or a couch potato, there is something to do for everyone. In this post, we will explore 10 of the best holiday activities that you can do on the South Coast.

1.Visit Oribi Gorge:

This is a canyon with magnificent views and scenery around it. It is an adventurer’s paradise and instead of the Big Five, it has the Wild Five. The Wild Five consists of the wild abseil, wild swing, wild slide, wild bridge and wild water rafting. The Wild Swing is situated at the top of Lehr’s Waterfall and is the highest swing of its kind in the world. The abseiling is done on a 110m cliff face, alongside Lehr’s waterfall and is a guaranteed adrenaline rush. If you are not into high adrenaline activities, you can always take a gentle hike on one of the many scenic trails that are on offer or alternatively, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning views, they are beyond compare.

2. Go to Lake Eland:

Situated in the heart of Oribi Gorge, covering 2500 hectares of diverse ecosystems, Lake Eland is a must visit destination on the South Coast. The lake is shaped like an eland which is how the reserve got its name. It is home to many species of wildlife and flora. There are organised game drives or you can drive through the reserve in your own vehicle. Visitors can walk the suspension bridge, take a horse ride or go on a mountain bike trail. Lake Eland Zip Lines is the Longest Zip Line Tour in Africa! The Tour consists of 14 zip line slides starting at the top of the Oribi Gorge. The longest zip line is No. 6, which soars 680m and 300m high above the Gorge. The views from that height are breathtaking and you are left feeling exhilarated. Lake Eland is a great holiday spot as it accommodates all types of guests, from the adrenaline junkies to the laid-back fishermen.

3. Play Golf on the Golf Coast:

With 9, eighteen hole golf courses and 2, nine hole golf courses, all surrounded by the magnificent ocean and scenic views and all within close proximity of each other, the Golf Coast poses a dilemma for any golfer. Where do I play first? From the mentally tough course at San-Lameer to the forest course of Port Shepstone to the sloping fairways of Port Edward’s course, the Golf Coast has a course for everyone. Pack those clubs because it’s tee off time!

4. Go Wakeboarding:

Learn how to wakeboard in Port Edward, the home of some of South Africa’s best wakeboarders. With the subtropical conditions, this can be done on flat water, all year round. You can have one on one training or a group session. If you love the water and are keen to try out something new, be sure to check this out.

5. Pop in at Crags View Wildlife Care Centre:

Incorporate a little educational adventure on your holiday by visiting this rehabilitation centre. The centre looks after birds and small animals that have been injured or orphaned and rehabilitates them before they are released back into the wild.

6. Come Ride at the Burry Stander Bike Park:

After tragically losing his life in an accident, South African cross-country mountain biker, Burry Stander’s parents decided to open a bike park in his memory.

Burry was a multi-time national and African champion, an Under-23 world champion, the first South African to win the Cape Epic (with Swiss partner Christoph Sauser) and flew the flag at the Beijing and London Olympics, where he finished 15th and 5th, respectively.

The bike park is a safe environment for bikers from all over to come and ride in and the Burry Stander Foundation also helps others who have been in similar situations as Burry as well as riders from disadvantaged communities.

7. Try out Scuba Diving:

Take a trip into the depths of the Indian ocean in the peaceful town of Margate and be privy to the amazing underworld of the sea. You will see tropical fish, dolphin, and spectacular soft coral. Experienced and inexperienced visitors can partake in the diving. For the more brave, the option of shark cage diving will be made available to you. Apart from Margate, you can also dive in Shelley Beach and various other places on the KZN South Coast. 

8. Have a Party:

Margate is well known for its beach parties that almost always end with the sunrise. Take a trip to one of the South Coast’s oldest clubs, Backline, for a night of festivities. The club regularly hosts top international and national DJ’s and it isn’t uncommon to bump into a celebrity or three.

9. Take a Hike:

Visit the Umtamvuna nature reserve and go on one of the many scenic hikes that they have to offer. The trails differ in duration and in intensity. The reserve is home to a diverse range of species, including the Cape Vulture and Fish Eagle. Bushbuck,  baboon, samango monkeys, blue duiker, and common reedbuck can also be spotted during the hike. The natural sounds and magnificent views that you will encounter on your hike will leave your speechless. Nature in all its glory!

10. Pamper time:

After all the adventures and activities, you’ll definitely need some down time. Visit the ‘Pamper Girls’ at Umthunzi Hotel. The hotel offers in-house beauty treatments and massages They offer a monthly special to all their in-house guests or you can choose from their regular options. Do remember to pre-book as the therapist aren’t on site. The sea views and ocean sounds that surround the treatment room will put you at ease and have you planning your next KZN South Coast holiday.

With its chilled beach vibes, intense hiking trails, adrenaline-inducing activities and animal-centric adventures, the KZN South Coast is an attractive holiday destination for almost anyone. Whether you’re looking for a family getaway, romantic escape or a solo mission, this is the place for you.