Durban’s subtropical climate and year-round beach weather is ideal for a beach holiday. Even better, there are a variety of water sports on offer and each beach along the Durban coast line has a different vibe, making sure there is something for everyone.
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Almost all of Durban’s beaches are great for families thanks to safety features such as lifeguards, shark nets and beacons indicating which areas are safe for swimming.
Umhlanga beach
This beach was awarded a blue flag for its crystal-clear waters and family-friendly tides. It has been voted as one of the best beaches for swimming.
Lined with luxury hotels, restaurants, cafes and apartments, this area makes the ultimate playground for anyone wanting to step off the beach and into the holiday spirit.
Ansteys beach
Found on Bluff beach, this spot has a laid-back, calm feeling about it which is loved by locals.
Ansteys Beach has shark protected waters and is ideal for sunbathing on its soft sandy shores.
It also boasts a great surf spot with swells that can reach 1,2 m (4ft) during high tide — a good challenge for intermediate surfers and bodyboarders.
Swimming here is not ideal as the shoreline is quite rocky, but it does make for beautiful scenic walks along the coast. If you really do want to take a dip, try one of the several rock pools.
La Lucia Beach
With the warm Indian ocean caressing its shores, La Lucia beach is the dream beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
The beach boasts a coral reef teeming with ocean life and an off-shore dive makes for incredible views. The location of this beach, close to the city centre, makes for a convenient day trip.
North Beach
Situated along the infamous Golden Mile, North Beach is the perfect playground for all types of beach-goers!
The waters are ideal for swimming, body boarding, surfing, paddle skiing and SUPing, while the promenade invites all sorts of activities. If you're looking for a place to test out your new blades or dust off those running shoes followed by a cuppa Joe and a dip in the ocean- then this beach is for you!
Pigs Hut
This beach offers a slightly more challenging surf with epic swells at high tide, but is best suited for intermediate and advanced surfers. You should also beware of crowds and sharks.
Cave Rock Bluff
Arguably one of the best surfing spots in South Africa, Cave Rock boasts some legendary big-wave surf conditions.
With a reef and underwater channel just off the shores, the waves produced here are comparable to those surfed in Hawaii. Suitable to experienced surfers only, this spot is a favourite among tourists and locals alike.
Vetch’s Reef
The fantastic surfing conditions come with some danger, so it is recommended for advanced surfers only.
Sharks and sea urchins are abundant and as there is a danger of wipe-outs leaving you with a little less skin on your bones at Vetch’s Reef, be sure to come at high tide and prepare for a great surf!
Durban Kitebeach
Unsurprisingly, this is the beach for kiteboarding. The wind plays along for great kiting all year round, but is best when the north-easterly wind blows. The local car guards are also around to help you set up your kite for a tip.
Durban is famous for its warm waters and golden beaches. Whether you’re looking to frolic in the sun or take the waves - Durbs has got it all!
Take your pick and soak it all in; if you want to experience the true Durban beachfront vibe, treat yourself to a spicy pineapple! You won’t be disappointed!
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