15 Best Beach Holidays in South Africa

South Africa boasts some of the world’s most beautiful and diverse beaches, offering everything from pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters to rugged coastlines and secluded bays.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape, a surfing adventure, or a family-friendly destination, South Africa’s coastline has something for everyone.

Here are the Top 15 beach holidays in South Africa, each offering unique experiences and unforgettable memories.

1. Clifton Beaches, Cape Town

Clifton Beaches in Cape Town, including the renowned Clifton Beach one, two, three, and fourth, set a beautiful and upscale atmosphere for your beach holiday. These four distinct beaches, each separated by granite boulders, have a picturesque setting with powder white sands and turquoise waters.

They are perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and swimming in the icy yet refreshing Atlantic Ocean. The water here is generally cooler, ranging between 12°C and 17°C, making it invigorating for a quick dip.

2. Camps Bay Beach, Cape Town

Just a short drive from Clifton, Camps Bay Beach is another iconic Cape Town destination. Known for its palm-lined promenade, vibrant nightlife, and excellent dining options, Camps Bay is the perfect spot for a glamorous beach holiday. The beach offers soft white sands and inviting waters, with the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range providing a stunning backdrop.

Families will love the tidal pools, which provide calm and safe areas for children to play and observe marine life. The ocean temperatures here are similar to Clifton, ranging from 12°C to 17°C. 

3. Umhlanga Rocks, Durban

Umhlanga Rocks is a popular beach destination on the KwaZulu-Natal coast, just north of Durban. The beach features golden sands, the warm waters of the Indian Ocean (averaging 22°C to 27°C), and excellent facilities, making it ideal for families.

The nearby Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve offers scenic trails and bird-watching opportunities, while the vibrant Umhlanga Village is perfect for shopping and dining.

4. Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route

Plettenberg Bay, or “Plett” as this town is affectionately known, is a premier beach destination on the Garden Route. The town boasts several stunning beaches, including Central Beach, Robberg Beach, and Lookout Beach. These beaches offer a range of activities, from surfing and swimming to dolphin and whale watching.

Whales visit Plettenberg Bay, particularly during winter, making it a must-visit destination during off-peak periods for nature enthusiasts. The ocean temperatures here range from 15°C to 22°C. 

5. Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape

Jeffreys Bay, one of the world’s best surfing destinations, is famous for its long, fast waves, vibrant surf culture, and beautiful beaches. The town hosts the annual J-Bay Open, attracting surfers from around the globe.

Main Beach and Supertubes are the most popular spots, offering excellent waves and a laid-back atmosphere. The water temperature averages between 17°C and 21°C, making it comfortable for extended periods in the surf. Exploring this Eastern Cape beach holiday town is perfect for surfers and beach lovers alike.

6. Kraalbaai, West Coast National Park

For a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, Kraalbaai in the West Coast National Park is one of the hidden gems of the Western Cape. The beach is surrounded by a lush coastal dune forest, enhancing its natural beauty and ecological richness.

It also features calm, turquoise waters and pristine white sands, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. The lagoon is also home to various bird species, adding to the area’s natural charm. The water temperatures here range from 15°C to 20°C. 

7. Ballito, Dolphin Coast

Ballito, located on the Dolphin Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is a vibrant beach town known for its warm waters (22°C to 27°C) and friendly atmosphere. Willard Beach is the main attraction, offering safe swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball. It is also a recognized blue flag beach, meeting high environmental and safety standards.

The town also hosts the annual Ballito Pro, the longest-running professional surfing event in the world. Ballito is surrounded by lush greenery and has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of restaurants and bars. Adding the KwaZulu-Natal Coast to your beach holiday itinerary ensures you experience the best of the Dolphin Coast’s beaches and activities.

8. Wilderness Beach, Garden Route

Wilderness Beach, located in the heart of the Garden Route, is known for its expansive sandy shores, rolling dunes, and tranquil ambiance. The beach is perfect for long walks, swimming, and bird watching.

Additionally, it offers offshore scuba diving opportunities, making it a haven for adventure seekers. The nearby Wilderness National Park offers hiking and canoeing opportunities, adding to the area’s appeal. The water temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C.  This Garden Route haven provides the perfect beach holiday blend of relaxation and adventure in one of South Africa’s most scenic regions.

9. Southbroom, South Coast

Southbroom, on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is a charming seaside village known for its pristine beaches and lush vegetation. Southbroom Beach offers a tranquil setting with safe swimming, excellent surfing, and tidal pools for exploring marine life.

The Southbroom Golf Club provides stunning ocean views, making it an excellent spot for golf enthusiasts. The water temperatures are warm, ranging from 22°C to 27°C. 

10. Gonubie Beach, East London

Gonubie Beach, located near East London, is a family-friendly beach known for its long boardwalk, tidal pools, and gentle waves. It is also recognized as a blue flag beach, meeting high environmental and safety standards. The beach is ideal for swimming, picnicking, and fishing.

The nearby Gonubie River offers canoeing and bird-watching opportunities, making it a versatile destination for nature lovers. The water temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C. The Wild Coast is one of the most memorable coastal regions of South Africa, packed with charm and natural beauty.

 11. Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town

Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is famous for its resident colony of African penguins and is one of South Africa’s most unique beaches. It has clear, warm waters (16°C to 20°C) and large granite boulders that provide sheltered swimming areas. It’s an excellent spot for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The nearby Boulders African Penguin Colony offers an extraordinary opportunity to observe these charming birds up close.

Don’t miss out on the best of the Cape Peninsula, including a visit to Boulders Beach, allowing you to experience the penguins and the natural beauty of the area.

12. Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth

Hobie Beach in Port Elizabeth is known for its golden sands, warm waters (18°C to 24°C), and family-friendly atmosphere. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sailing. The nearby Shark Rock Pier offers stunning coastline views, and the beachfront promenade is lined with restaurants and cafes.

Plan an Eastern Cape Family Adventure, with a visit to Hobie Beach ensuring a fun and relaxing family beach holiday.

13. Bloubergstrand, Cape Town

Bloubergstrand offers spectacular views of Table Mountain and Robben Island and is one of the most scenic beaches for photographers in South Africa. The beach is also famous for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and beachcombing. The water temperatures are cooler, ranging from 13°C to 18°C, but the strong winds make it a hotspot for wind sports enthusiasts. The surrounding area has a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops.

A Cape Town adventure will be incomplete without a visit to Bloubergstrand, a beach loved by thrill seekers and beach lovers alike.

14. Mdumbi Beach, Wild Coast

Mdumbi Beach is a hidden gem on the Wild Coast. It offers pristine sands, warm waters (19°C to 24°C), and a secluded atmosphere for beach relaxation. This beach is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the spectacular natural landmark known as Hole in the Wall. 

The surrounding Wild Coast is rich in traditional Xhosa culture, providing a unique layer of cultural immersion to your beach break.  

15. Noetzie Beach, Knysna

Noetzie Beach is a secluded beach near Knysna, famous for its unique castles built along the shoreline. This beautiful beach features golden sands, warm waters (16°C to 22°C), and a tranquil atmosphere.

Noetzie is perfect for those seeking a peaceful Garden Route retreat and is ideal for swimming, picnicking, and exploring the unique architecture. 

South Africa’s coastline is dotted with beaches, each with its unique charm and attractions. Tap into the vibrant energy of a popular beach town or the serene beauty of a secluded bay. There’s a perfect beach holiday waiting for you in South Africa.  Discover Africa’s curated tours and experiences are ideal for exploring these top beach destinations, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable holiday.