Elephant Coast Beaches

Stretching south of the Mozambique border, the gorgeous sandy beach at Kosi Bay Nature Reserve has much to offer nature and ocean lovers. Part of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the beach lies parallel to the Kosi lakes and long strip of high sand dunes interrupted by a sandy estuary. Dolphin and whale watchers will be delighted by frequent sightings, particularly during winter when humpback whales migrate north to calve in the warmer Mozambique waters. You could take a boat trip to see dolphins and whales and there is some great snorkelling on the reefs. December and January is a particularly exciting time in Kosi Bay, for this is when loggerhead and leatherback turtles haul themselves up the beach to scoop out nests and lay their eggs. Access to Kosi Bay estuary and beach is a 45-minute drive requiring a 4WD vehicle. The route provides spectacular views across the fish trap dotted lake to the sea from the top of the high dunes. NOTE: Kosi Bay is in a malaria region. If you are planning to travel to iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Kosi Bay please consult your doctor or travel clinic for advice and refer to our article on malaria.

One of the last pristine and undeveloped wilderness beaches left on the African coastline, Mabibi Beach is a sub-tropical paradise and perfect playground. This magical sandy Maputaland beach is hidden in a sheltered bay surrounded by coastal forest. The crystal clear, warm water offers tranquil swimming, awesome snorkelling on coral reefs and exclusive offshore scuba diving. Situated in the heart of iSimangaliso Wetland Park (formerly Greater St Lucia Wetland Park), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mabibi is just 25 km north of Sodwana Bay in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

The gorgeous golden blonde sands of St Lucia Beach stretch as far as the eye can see in both directions. This sub-tropical beach experiences around 300 days of sunshine a year. Not only that, the Indian Ocean is pleasantly warm. Take care when swimming here though as there are rip currents and it is advisable to stay close to shore and avoid rough surf. Heading north on the landward side of the estuary is the beginning of the highest coastal dunes in the world – it’s impressive. To the south is a pleasant stroll to the estuary of the Imfolozi River. Shore-based fishing is very popular along this stretch, mostly for shad.