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Home >  South Africa  >  KwaZulu Natal  >  Umkomaas  >  

Aliwal Shoal

Aliwal Shoal

South Africa, KwaZulu Natal, Umkomaas 

Sandee

Aliwal Shoal

South Africa, KwaZulu Natal, Umkomaas 

62.317

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°C

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Rain

10 Km81%6.68 m/s

8:00 AM

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62.3 °F17 °C

11:00 AM

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63.8 °F18 °C

2:00 PM

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65.6 °F18 °C

5:00 PM

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65.3 °F18 °C

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64.7 °F18 °C

11:00 PM

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62.7 °F17 °C

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60.7 °F16 °C

5:00 AM

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65.0 °F18 °C

8:00 AM

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66.0 °F19 °C

11:00 AM

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69.3 °F21 °C

2:00 PM

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69.6 °F21 °C

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65.3 °F18 °C

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62.6 °F17 °C

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62.7 °F17 °C

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59.7 °F15 °C

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58.5 °F15 °C

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60.7 °F16 °C

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68.7 °F20 °C

2:00 PM

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69.5 °F21 °C

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63.8 °F18 °C

8:00 PM

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61.2 °F16 °C

11:00 PM

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59.8 °F15 °C

2:00 AM

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58.7 °F15 °C

5:00 AM

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58.0 °F14 °C

8:00 AM

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60.8 °F16 °C

11:00 AM

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68.6 °F20 °C

2:00 PM

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69.8 °F21 °C

5:00 PM

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65.6 °F19 °C

8:00 PM

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62.9 °F17 °C

11:00 PM

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61.8 °F16 °C

2:00 AM

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60.6 °F16 °C

5:00 AM

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59.3 °F15 °C

8:00 AM

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62.0 °F16 °C

11:00 AM

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70.5 °F21 °C

2:00 PM

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72.0 °F22 °C

5:00 PM

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66.0 °F19 °C

8:00 PM

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64.2 °F18 °C

11:00 PM

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63.5 °F17 °C

2:00 AM

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62.7 °F17 °C

5:00 AM

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62.4 °F17 °C

Aliwal Shoal, located in Umkomaas, South Africa, boasts a remarkable underwater seascape rather than a traditional sandy beach. This renowned diving spot is not characterized by its beach length or sand color, but rather by its vibrant marine life and coral formations. Aliwal Shoal offers a plethora of activities including diving, snorkeling, and notably, surfing for the adventurous. Aliwal Shoal has few amenities, so plan your trip accordingly, although it does have access for diving expeditions and boat launches. Given its unique nature as a marine attraction rather than a classic beach, visitors should prepare for a different kind of beach day, focusing on the exploration of underwater wonders.

As for dining options near Aliwal Shoal, Umkomaas boasts a variety of restaurants catering to a range of tastes. The Codsquad offers fresh, delicious seafood dishes, presenting a taste of the local culinary scene. For those craving Italian, Trattoria La Terraza is known for its authentic pizzas and pasta dishes. A more casual dining experience can be found at Aliwal Shoal Restobar, where visitors can enjoy a diverse menu in a relaxed atmosphere.

Regarding accommodation, Umkomaas offers several cozy options for visitors. The Aliwal Dive Centre & Lodge directly caters to diving enthusiasts, providing comfortable lodging along with dive packages. Umkomaas Guest House is another popular choice, offering stunning sea views and easy access to local attractions. For those looking for a taste of luxury, The Blue Marlin Hotel, located a short drive away, provides upscale amenities and spectacular seaside settings, making it a perfect retreat after a day of underwater adventure.

Parking information for Aliwal Shoal is somewhat unique, as the primary activity revolves around diving and snorkeling. Visitors typically arrange their trips through diving centers located in Umkomaas, which provide access to the shoal via boat. These centers often have their own parking facilities, which may be free for customers participating in diving expeditions or courses. It's advisable to check with the specific diving center you plan to use for the most accurate and up-to-date parking information and rates.

A fascinating fun fact about Aliwal Shoal is that it's recognized as one of the world's top diving sites. This underwater marvel is actually an ancient sand dune, estimated to be around 80,000 years old. The shoal became submerged under the ocean through millennia, creating an ecosystem teeming with life, including an array of spectacular coral, fish species, and even some wrecks that have become habitats for marine life.

When it comes to attractions, Aliwal Shoal itself is a major draw for divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Beyond its aquatic allure, the surrounding area of Umkomaas offers scenic beauty and outdoor activities. For those looking to explore beyond the ocean's surface, there are hiking trails offering panoramic views of the South African coastline. The nearby town of Umkomaas also provides a glimpse into local culture and history.

Basic Details

INParking

IN24 / 7

INBeige

IN2 Moodie St, Umkomaas, 4170, South Africa

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesLifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Restrooms

  • Shops

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesShowers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesSurfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Bikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBars

  • Food Snacks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesLocal Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Disabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Free

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Aliwal Shoal - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Aliwal Shoal have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    Yes, this Beach provides paid parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.

    Does Aliwal Shoal have lifeguards?

    Yes, this Beach ensures safety with professional lifeguards on duty throughout the day, offering peace of mind for beachgoers.

    Is Aliwal Shoal a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Aliwal Shoal good for swimming?

    Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.

    Does Aliwal Shoal have restrooms?

    No, this Beach does not have restrooms on or near the beach.

    Is Aliwal Shoal a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Aliwal Shoal?

    Yes, this Beach has multiple food options near or on the beach, including restaurants and beach vendors.

    What are the activities at Aliwal Shoal?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Fishing, Hiking, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Surfing.

    Does Aliwal Shoal have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.

    Is Aliwal Shoal a dog-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.

    Is Aliwal Shoal good for surfing?

    Yes, surfing is an activity that is frequently enjoyed at this Beach.

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