On the Hibiscus Coast
Marina Beach
Marina Beach is pure coastal gold. It’s laid-back, sun-drenched, and Blue Flag proud - perfect for sandy feet and salty hair. The beach is one of my favourites for a slow, scenic wander or a lazy towel nap. And while the legendary Mariners may have sailed off into the sunset, there’s still no shortage of lekker nearby stops. Pop into Trattoria La Terrazza just up the hill in Southbroom for a sunset pasta, or head slightly inland for a bite at Mac Banana - pancakes, zip-line, mini golf and more! Marina Beach is where time slows down, and my heart catches up.
Trafalgar
Small but full of soul. Trafalgar’s got this quiet charm that sneaks up on you - bit like that second glass of wine at Berry Cafe just down the road in Munster. The beach is unspoiled, the rock pools are magical, and if you’re into snorkelling, the marine reserve is a must. Pop into the charming Wild Coast Sun not far away for a little casino flutter or hit Mac Banana for a pancake, milkshake and some retail therapy.
Southbroom
Southbroom’s got style. She’s classy without trying too hard, kind of like a jazz musician in linen pants. I always recommend Trattoria La Terrazza for dinner with a view - make sure you sit on the deck, and the newly opened Flavours Restaurant on the square. For a cheeky sundowner, head to Southbroom Golf Club, whether or not you’ve swung a club all day. The lagoon is great for kayaking, and the Saturday morning village market? Bliss in a basket. And if you're in town for the holidays, check the vibe at Pistols Wild West Pub up the road. Karaoke is optional, but strongly encouraged.
Ramsgate
If I could bottle the vibe of Ramsgate and sell it, I’d be retired. Quirky, arty, and full of charm. Of course, everyone knows about The Waffle House (and yes, it lives up to the hype), but have you tried the cocktails at The Cocktail Deck Blue Lagoon overlooking the beach? Or popped into the Crayfish Inn for something different? The artsy little Antique Shops are definitely worth a visit, and if you time it right, you might catch one of the local craft markets.
Margate
Margate is a mix of proper coastal fun and pure nostalgia. It’s the main hub of the South Coast - and still buzzing. The beach is made for bodyboarding, beach bats and just about any type of snack on a stick. Try The Grove for a boozy milkshake and calamari. There’s great live music at The Pumphouse, and if you're after a proper local jol, Level 101 still gets a crowd going. For quieter moments, stroll through Tinkers Den or stop by the Margate Country Club.
Uvongo
Uvongo has this gentle energy, like it’s smiling at you. The waterfall tumbling into the lagoon is a magic little feature. There’s good fishing here, lovely walks, and a proper vibe down at the beach. Breakers Restaurant is a fantastic pitstop, or grab a burger at Buccaneers. On Saturdays, you’ll often find me at the Uvongo flea market, coffee in one hand, a vetkoek in the other.
St Mikes on Sea
St Mike’s is one of my happy places. It’s small, it’s friendly, and it’s just 150m from the best kind of lazy beach day. If you’ve got kids, they’ll love the little river that winds through the picnic area. Stop by C-Bali for sushi or a G&T with a view - or both. There’s often live music wafting through from the deck.
Shelly Beach
Shelly’s where the action is - shopping, cinema, hospitals, diving, boating - you name it. The launch site is always buzzing, and if you haven’t tried a deep-sea charter, put it on your list. The Stables Cafe is a great spot for breakfast or lunch with a view, and for a more casual chow, head to My Happy Place for the best carrot cake on the coast. And if you’re into reef diving or shark cage experiences - Shelly is the launchpad.
Port Shepstone
Our trusty regional anchor. Port Shepstone may be practical, but she’s also got a few surprises. The river mouth is lovely for kayaking or paddleboarding, and the museum is an unexpected gem if you like a bit of history. Pop into The Cellar for a PROPER dining experience to remember, or JAX Cafe for a low-key brekkie. PS: The Mzimkhulu River is just the spot for a peaceful sundowner cruise - yes, really!
