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Best-kept secret on the Hibiscus Coast
Marina Beach, KwaZulu-Natal
View across Marina Beach
© Warren Strange
Did you know?
Nine top-class golf courses are within a 45-minute drive from Marina Beach.
Marina Beach is 1 of 4 Blue Flag beaches on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. Also called the Hibiscus Coast, the region is famed for its warm weather, palm tree-lined beaches and bustling coastal resort towns that give way to a green patchwork of tropical vegetation, plantations and championship golf courses.
Though less well-known than other south coast beaches, Marina Beach has top-class facilities and scenic beauty. Five kilometres long and almost 200 m wide, it boasts warm water, soft sand, restrained surf, shark nets and lifeguards in season - guaranteeing safe, pleasant swimming conditions all year round. Ablutions are onsite, and there is beach access for otherly-abled sun lovers.
Little ones can splash in the natural tidal pool, or explore the rock pools filled with real-life versions of Disney's sea-creatures. At low tide, go snorkelling along the fascinating inter-tidal zone. On shore, stock up for a beach braai at the shops in the village nearby, or opt for the freshest seafood (and sea views) at Mariner's beachfront restaurant.
The private estate of San Lameer, Marina Beach Village and Mondazur Resort Estate Hotel all overlook Marina Beach. Nevertheless, nature reigns supreme here. Adjacent to the beach is the Mpenjati Nature Reserve. Walkways and observation platforms provide magnificent views of the wetland reserve, and there are picnic sites and nature trails.
Bordering on Marina beach is San Lameer's ‘urban' nature conservancy. The reserve protects indigenous dune, forest, and grasslands vegetation, 195 different bird species, and small antelope including impala, red, gray and blue duiker, reedbuck and bushbuck. An entrance fee applies for day visitors.
Between May and July the annual Sardine Run spurs sharks, dolphins, seabirds and humans into a feeding frenzy for their share of millions of migrating sardines, that has been called the ‘greatest shoal on earth'.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Hibiscus Coast Tourism
Tel: +27 (0)39 682 7944
Fax: +27 (0)39 682 1034
Email: info@hibiscuscoast.org.za
How to get here
From Durban International Airport follow the N2 along the coast to Ramsgate then take the R61 to Marina Beach.
Around the area
Protea Banks is a top-rated dive site, and in Trafalgar Marine Reserve explore prehistoric marine fossil beds and a petrified underwater forest.
What to pack
A swimming costume, adequate sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, Scuba gear, kayaks and surf boards can be hired.
Where to stay
Self-catering guest houses, wooden cabins overlooking the beach, B&Bs, upmarket beach villas in San Lameer estate or Mondazur Resort Estate Hotel.
What to eat
Seafood is fresh and plentiful, and a good KwaZulu-Natal curry is never hard to find.