The sub-tropical climate, natural beauty and highest number of Blue Flag beaches make the KZN South Coast a premier seaside destination. One of the most budget-friendly ways for families to enjoy this natural wonder is by camping in the wilderness. There is also easy access to the ocean and nearby activities for the whole family.
“Over the last few years we have seen many families choosing to camp and caravan on the KZN South Coast, not just because of the cost, but because it allows families to really get away and take part in nature,” said South Coast CEO explained. Tourism Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), Dr. Vusumuzi Sibiya. “The region is home to Blue Flag beaches, world-class dive sites, tidal pools, coastal forests and more, and for families looking for the ultimate summer destination, we have a great selection of award-winning campgrounds. There are also several campgrounds.
1. Happy Wanderers Holiday Resort
Location: Kelso
Website: www.happywanderers.co.za
Description: Choose one of 86 sites nestled under a canopy of native milkwood trees, with the Indian Ocean just meters away. Campgrounds come in a variety of locations, including grass, sand, and concrete options, as well as shaded, partially shaded, and full sun locations. For families storing their caravan (for a monthly fee), Happy Wanderers will leave your van and set up your tent prior to your arrival.
2. Scottborough Caravan Park
Location: Scottborough
Website: www.scottburghcaravanpark.co.za
Description: A popular destination with 260 caravan parks with great facilities. Children will enjoy the Supertube, play park, volleyball, trampolines and organized entertainment. This location is conveniently located near nature reserves and diving spots for the adventurous. The popular and affordable Scotty's Coffee Shop is also located in the campground along the beach.
3. Rocky Bay Resort
Location: Park Linney
Website: www.rockybay.co.za
Description: For a seaside holiday, head to Rocky Bay Resort's caravan park and campsite, which is surrounded by coastal bush and has several beachfront sites. A pilot Blue Flag beach, Rocky Bay is a perfect destination for a family vacation, and the resort offers several facilities, including a restaurant and diving charters.
4. River Valley Nature Reserve
Location: Margate
Website: www.rivervalleynaturereserve.co.za
Description: This small campsite with just 5 sites is located in the shade on the banks of the Evengu River and has plug points, ablution facilities and hot showers. Campers can explore the different ecosystems within the nature reserve, which is rich in birds, antelopes, and small mammals.
5. Characters Garden Park
Location: Pennington
Website: www.charactersgardenpark.co.za
Description: This scenic park is where indigenous coastal forest meets unspoilt sandy beaches, making it perfect for caravans and campers. Despite the incredibly quiet setting, shops and restaurants are all within walking distance. Just a few steps away, beautiful Pennington Beach offers sandy beaches, tidal pools, crystal clear rock pools, and some of the area's best fishing spots.
6. Mac Nichols Caravan Park
Location: Bazley Beach
Website: www.macnicol.co.za
Description: This resort is located on the shores of Ifafa Lagoon, just 90 meters from the beach. All toilet blocks are clean and modern, with laundry facilities in each block and eight dedicated toilet stations. The campsite is mostly shaded and has two pools, one of which is heated during the winter, and a seasonal entertainment program. Kids will enjoy the trampoline, jungle gym, TV room, Buzzley Trail, and canoeing in the lagoon.
7. Marlon Holiday Resort
Location: Sanwich Harbor
Website: www.marlon.co.za
Description: This wonderful resort has 48 large grass caravan sites and campsites in shaded, semi-shaded or sunny locations. Families will enjoy the on-site pool, children's play park, trampoline, and even a half-pipe for skateboarding. There is also a large games room with TV, ping pong table, pool table and darts.
8. Untu Palms
Location: Annalee
Website: www.untupalms.co.za
Description: This is a beautiful seaside vacation resort that offers a picture-perfect family getaway. The 52-stand tent and caravan park offers direct beach access and the venue is surrounded by beautiful coastal forest. There is a swimming pool and games room available to everyone.
9. Sherry Caravan Park
Location: Shelly Beach
Website: www.shellycaravanpark.com
Description: A peaceful campsite in the countryside just 5 minutes from the ocean. There are 36 campsites on flat grassy areas, all with braying facilities and plug points. The campsite has a recreation hall with table tennis, billiards and darts. There is also a small dam and pool for bass fishing, rowing boats, and canoeing.
10. Oasis Holiday Resort
Location: Ubongo
Website: www.holidayresort.co.za
Description: This caravan park, campsite and chalet resort is the ultimate holiday experience. Located in the seaside village of Ubongo, just 600 meters from the wonderful beaches and the best leisure facilities. The campsite is surrounded by large shady trees, there are waterfalls nearby and the Ubongo River Nature Reserve is a great place to explore.
11. Fairhills Caravan Park + Camping
Location: Ramsgate
Website: www.fairhillspark.co.za
Description: Just over a kilometer from the beautiful Ramsgate Blue Flag beach and lagoon, we have 44 campsites and caravan sites of all sizes and types. Each site has a power point and separate braai area, with sunny and shaded areas available. There are three ablution facilities supplied with well water, as well as swimming pools, trampolines, jungle gyms, nature trails, and sports and games areas.
12. Paradise Holiday Resort
Location: Southbroom
Website: www.paradiseholidayresort.co.za
Description: Located just 10 minutes south of Margate and 2.5 km from Blue Flag Marina Beach, this resort is perched on a hill surrounded by native trees with stunning ocean views. This caravan park has 40 grassy sites with electricity points and has a 3-star rating from the South African Tourism Council.
13. Port O Cole Caravan Park
Location: Trafalgar
Website: www.portocall.co.za
Description: Located along Trafalgar's beachfront, halfway between Margate and Port Edward, this caravan park has 5km of uninterrupted beach leading to Marina Beach and St La Mer to the north and Mpenjati Nature Reserve and Palm Beach to the south. There are two beach passes to access.
14. Leisure View Caravan Park
Location: Leisure Bay
Website: www.leisureview.co.za
Description: For over 45 years Leisure View Caravan Park has operated successfully and welcomed visitors to our beautiful coast. The peaceful campsite also has a swimming pool and games room. Laundry services are also available.
15. The Pon Holiday & Water Sports Resort
Location: Port Edward
Website: www.oldpont.co.za
Description: Located in the Umtanvuna Valley next to the Umtanvuna River mouth, Pon is a beautiful heritage site and the gateway between KZN and Transkei. It's the perfect place for family fun and relaxation for holidaymakers, campers, caravanners, water sports enthusiasts and day trippers. Choose from 45 campsites with great facilities including swimming pools, children's play areas and braai areas. There are also bars and restaurants along the river.
Now is the time to visit the KZN South Coast!
The stunning KZN South Coast continues to top the list as a popular destination due to its diverse and unparalleled tourism offerings. Head inland and you'll find a number of nature reserves perfect for picnicking and birdwatching, as well as hiking, biking and 4×4 adventures in the great outdoors.
Enjoy motorsport at Detzi Raceway and experience its many cultural heritage sites. Discover the region's agricultural charm with an agricultural experience that includes fresh produce sampling and adventure activities. And for the business sector, there's no better location than the KZN South Coast, considered a top MICE (Meetings | Incentives | Conventions | Events) destination.
For more information, please visit the KZN South Coast website. Follow South Coast Tourism on Facebook. South Coast Tourism Investment Company on YouTube. @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. Then download the “Explore KZN South Coast'' app. Click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Find out why the KZN South Coast is a top tourist destination here. Check out the latest southern exploration route guide for the KZN south coast here.
Follow the hashtags #visitkznsouthcoast #sctie #kznsouthcoastfamily #embraceSummer #nowsthetime #sctie
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