The KZN South Coast is the warmest place to be this winter

The South Coast’s subtropical climate makes it the best place to be this winter: whales, sardines and even bikers on their Harleys are headed this way in the next three months!

The mildest weather conditions in SA are found on the KZN coast, and every year thousands of visitors from colder provinces flock to this part of the country to escape the frost and snow… and many even take a dip in the Indian Ocean.

The annual whale migration means the whales are on their way, and June and July are the months where you have the best chance of witnessing the greatest shoal on earth – the legendary Sardine Run!

May is a popular time of year to visit this part of the coast – the summer rains are (usually) over, the spring winds are months away and humidity is low. Lots of bright sunshine, balmy evenings and crisp mornings make this the ideal time of year to walk on the beach, dine at some of the fabulous restaurants in the area and maybe spot the first whales of the season.

From June, over 30 000 Humpback and Southern Right whales take part in the annual migration that brings them close to the coastline, and there are four whale viewing decks where you can watch their antics: Pennington, Umtentweni, Ramsgate and Southbroom.

The sardines are also on their way by this time of year, and might even have reached the lower South Coast by June.  This is the largest biomass migration on earth, and the Sardine Run is a spectacular sight to see… silver shoals glitter in the waves and bring with them flocks of sea birds and other marine predators, as the locals converge on the beaches to claim their share.

There are always plenty of fun beach events planned for the July school holidays, ensuring lots of entertainment for the entire family. If you need a break from the beach, Oribi Gorge, Lake Eland Game Reserve and the KwaXolo Caves all offer an exciting day out for everyone.

 

This year the African Bike Fest is taking place from 6-8 August at St. Mikes Beach. Ogle the magnificent Harleys and their leather-clad riders and enjoy the market stalls, beer tent, and live music performances by some of South Africa’s hottest bands.

With all these highly anticipated upcoming events, plus 58 swimming beaches, 11 golf courses, some of the best seafood in the country and plenty of warm sunshine, there’s no better place to be this winter!

Sasha is a freelance journalist and has a passion for writing, reading, good food and wine. She’s obsessed with the IDEA of healthy eating (as well as chocolate – dark of course) and is always experimenting with alternative health therapies and trying to get the family to eat less sugar. Her best reward at the end of a busy week: a good book or time to sit on the beach and stare at the sea: whichever option is available.