News / 14 February 2023
Explore South Africa’s watery wonders
Here in South Africa, a beach, river, or lake is often the main highlight of any local holiday. And as things heat up during the warmer months, there's no better place to be than close to the water.
But where to go? With the summer season looming, here are our top watery wonders worth exploring across the country.
Lake Jozini, KZN
If you love the idea of holidaying near a lake, take advantage of Lake Jozini, also known as Pongolapoort Dam. Spend your time fishing to your heart's content (tigerfish!) or grab your sunnies and kick back on the sun lounger. A sunset safari cruise will get you up close to the resident pods of hippos.
Where to stay? Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa
Scottburgh Beach, KZN
If you simply must head to the beach for your next holiday, make sure it's somewhere along the KwaZulu Natal South Coast, such as Scottburgh Beach. Boasting Blue Flag status and lifeguards on duty, you can safely make a splash in the waves or unleash your inner mermaid (or merman) in the tidal pool.
Where to stay? Blue Marlin Hotel
Vaalkop Dam, North West
Just a 90-minute drive from Johannesburg, and 30 minutes from Sun City, the Vaalkop Dam proves easily accessible for South African self-drivers. It also ticks all the right boxes for anglers, twitchers and nature lovers, but mainly for those looking to light up the coals and crack open a cold one.
Where to stay? Finfoot Lake Reserve
Olifants River, Mpumalanga
If you're heading between Johannesburg or Pretoria and Mbombela (Nelspruit), you'll want to make a stopover near the Olifants River. Bringing life to the surrounding area, there's no better place to reconnect with nature. Keep an eye out for crocs, hippos, and other wildlife foraging along its banks.
Where to stay? Olifants River Lodge
Sea Point Promenade, Western Cape
Cape Town's iconic Seapoint Promenade is a magnet for sun-worshippers and ice cream-wielding ocean lovers. Don't skip this magical spot on your next trip to the Mother City, where ships and yachts can be seen on the horizon. Be sure to time your visit with sunrise or sunset!
Where to stay? The Peninsula All-Suite Hotel
Zimbali Beach, KZN
If swimming pools come in second place to the ocean for you, don your summer sandals and head down to Zimbali Beach. Keep an eye on the horizon for pods of dolphins, porpoises, and Humpback whales from May. Although this stretch of coastline is not designated for swimming, there are plenty of other beaches nearby to make a splash.
Where to stay? Zimbali Lodge
