Best Camping Beaches In South Africa

24 / 7

4.1

Storms River Mouth Beach

South Africa, Eastern Cape, Kou Kamma

Storms River Mouth Beach is one of the most unique beaches in the entire world. Tucked away on this rocky coastline, right next to the canyon where the glorious Storms River meets the ocean, is a tiny stretch of beach with some of the most scenic views in South Africa. Visitors can witness powerful waves crash against the rocky cliffs of the nearby coastline while relaxing on the sand. Surprisingly, the water near the beach is calm enough for casual swimming. Various trails, kayaking tours, and activities are available in the immediate area, so visitors should make sure to save ample time to fully explore all that Storms River has to offer.

24 / 7

Elands Bay Beach

South Africa, Western Cape, Cederberg

Situated approximately two hours from Cape Town, Elands Bay Beach is the ultimate getaway from the hectic pace of city life. Although Elands Bay is a small town with few amenities, it certainly fits the definition of a "hidden gem" perfectly. If you are looking for a serene, white sand beach and a quaint town to explore, Elands Bay is the perfect spot for you!

24 / 7

4.1

Platbank Beach

South Africa, Western Cape, Knysna

Platbank Beach in Knysna, South Africa, offers an untouched, serene environment far from the bustling activity of popular tourist beaches. Stretching along the coast with its pristine, light-colored sand, it creates a tranquil retreat for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. However, potential visitors should note that Platbank Beach has few amenities, so plan your trip accordingly, although it does not have lifeguards on duty, bathroom access, or allow dogs. This absence of facilities extends to offering neither surfing options nor camping spots, encouraging guests to indulge in low-key activities such as walking, bird watching, and picnicking amidst the unspoiled beauty.

24 / 7

4.15

Strandfontein Beach

South Africa, Western Cape, Cape Town

Nestled along the picturesque coast of Cape Town, South Africa, Strandfontein Beach unfurls its magnificent stretches of golden sand, embodying the serene allure of the Atlantic Ocean. This captivating destination is celebrated for its expansive length, offering visitors a sprawling canvas of sandy shores to explore and revel in a plethora of activities. Among the activities, beachgoers can engage in swimming in the temperate waters, basking in the sun's embrace, enjoying leisurely picnics with families, flying kites against the backdrop of a clear sky, and embarking on peaceful strolls along the beachfront. Despite its natural beauty and array of activities, Strandfontein Beach has few amenities, so plan your trip accordingly, although it does not have lifeguards on duty, bathroom access, or allow dogs, which ensures a focused enjoyment of its pristine environment and tranquil seascape.

24 / 7

4.2

White Clay Resort

South Africa, Eastern Cape, Rini

Nestled along the pristine coast of South Africa, in the quaint area of Rini, White Clay Resort is a hidden gem offering a unique beach experience with its lengthy stretch of sandy shores. Unlike your typical bustling beach destinations, White Clay Resort boasts a serene environment, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves into nature’s tranquility. The sand here gleams with a soft, white hue, stretching far along the coastline, providing ample space for relaxation and leisurely strolls. The activities available at the beach are tailored more towards peaceful enjoyment and nature appreciation, such as bird watching, shell collecting, and sunrise or sunset viewings. White Clay Resort has few amenities, so plan your trip accordingly, although it does not have lifeguards on duty, bathrooms, or allow dogs, making it an ideal spot for a quiet and undisturbed day at the beach.

24 / 7

4.2

Mabibi Beach

South Africa, KwaZulu Natal, Umhlabuyalingana

As one of the last unspoiled and undeveloped beachfronts on the continent, Mabibi Beach has a magical aura surrounding it. The beach is home to some of the most spectacular coral reef diving in the country, yet the area is largely unknown. Mabibi Beach is certifiably one of the most spectacular beaches in all of South Africa.

24 / 7

Zinkwazi Beach

South Africa, KwaZulu Natal, Nkwazi

Zinkwazi Beach, nestled in the serene town of Nkwazi on South Africa's exquisite Dolphin Coast, offers visitors an immaculate stretch of golden sand extending for several kilometers along the warm Indian Ocean. Renowned for its lush coastal vegetation and crystal-clear waters, this beach is a haven for surfers, families, and nature enthusiasts alike. Activities at Zinkwazi Beach include surfing, swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and camping, making it a versatile destination for all sorts of beachgoers. Zinkwazi Beach has many amenities including lifeguards on duty, bathroom access, and camping facilities, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for everyone. However, note that dogs are not allowed, there’s no provision for visitors with disabilities, and naturism is not permitted, so plan your visit with these considerations in mind.

24 / 7

4.05

Victoria Bay

South Africa, Western Cape, George

Victoria Bay is a tiny cove located near George on the south coast of South Africa. The pier is a great place for fishing, and the surf break is ideal for different types of boarding. Adjacent to multiple nature reserves and parks, Victoria Bay is the perfect pit stop for ecotourists.

24 / 7

Sodwana Bay Beach

South Africa, KwaZulu Natal, The Big Five False Bay

Located on the north Elephant Coast of KwaZulu-Natal inside the Sodwana Bay National Park, Sodwana Bay Beach offers a secluded atmosphere and warm weather year-around. An entry fee is required to enter the national park to gain access to the beach but tickets are only R 35 for adults and R 30 for children. Once inside the park, cars are allowed to drive and park on the sand.

The warm water makes for great swimming, surfing, kitesurfing, snorkeling, and bodyboarding. Sodwana Bay Beach is a very popular recreational diving destination because of its clear water, tropical coral reefs, and various species of marine life. Dive boats launch every day to take divers to the outlying reefs to experience this magnificent underwater treasure – we recommend Triton Diving, one of the most used diving companies in Sodwana Bay. Deep-sea charters are also available for avid fishermen. If you’re visiting Sodwana Bay Beach from November to February be sure to check out the annual Turtle Tours where you can watch sea turtles nest on the shore.

If you get hungry, the main town of Sodwana Bay is only a 10-minute drive from the beach and has many delicious restaurants. We like Mseni, a casual restaurant that offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and delicious cocktails. Another option is The Lighthouse Restauraunt, a family-friendly restaurant in the heart of Sodwana Bay with a full bar and outdoor seating. Tree Pub & Kitchen is another highly-rated restaurant with an indoor pool table and some of the best burgers in town.

If you’re looking for a place to stay check out the Vis-Agie Resort, a large property that has self-catering houses, rustic wooden cabins, a swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant. Another option is the Sodwana Bay Lodge, a diving and fishing resort that offers luxury wooden thatched chalets and a wide range of activities, like whale watching tours. We also like Triton Dive Lodge that has spacious cabins, an on-site restaurant, and a communal barbecue area.