Best SA Beaches for a December getaway
As the Southern Hemisphere basks in the glory of summer, South Africa's coastline comes alive, offering a variety of enchanting beaches perfect for a December getaway. From the rugged shores of the Eastern Cape to the sun-kissed sands of KwaZulu-Natal, each beach has its unique charm. This blog will guide you through some of South Africa's most captivating coastal gems, ideal for those looking to soak up the sun and surf this December.
Coffee Bay - Eastern Cape's Hidden Jewel
Nestled in the heart of the Wild Coast, Coffee Bay is a stunning, unspoiled retreat. Known for its dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, and the iconic Hole in the Wall resort. This little paradise offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. December in Coffee Bay is a magical time, with warm weather and lush surroundings, perfect for hiking, surfing, and immersing yourself in the local Xhosa culture.
Coffee Bay's beaches are a haven for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. The main beach, with its soft golden sands, is great for children to build sandcastles and splash around in the gentle waves, while parents can enjoy the sun's warmth. For the more adventurous families, Mdumbi Beach offers excellent surfing opportunities and incredible views, making it a perfect spot for memorable family picnics. The area's natural rock pools are a delight for young explorers, full of marine life to be discovered. Additionally, the less crowded, pristine beaches like Maphuzi provide a serene setting for families to unwind, play, and watch the spectacular sunrises that Coffee Bay is known for. With safety and cleanliness as top priorities, these beaches ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Where to Stay: Hole in the Wall
Hole in The Wall, nestled in scenic Coffee Bay in the Eastern Cape, offers a serene getaway for travellers and holidaymakers. This tranquil resort, set against the stunning Wild Coast landscape, provides a range of accommodation options, including affordable self-catering and backpacking choices. Each quaint thatched chalet, housing 1 to 4 private bedrooms, combines comfort with the beauty of nature. With the ocean at its doorstep and surrounded by lush greenery, the resort is perfect for nature enthusiasts, offering activities like birdwatching, nature walks, hiking trails, and fishing. The secluded natural bay beachfront and onsite facilities such as Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a bar, and various leisure activities ensure a relaxing yet engaging holiday experience. The resort's unique setting makes it an ideal base for exploring the Wild Coast's untouched beauty.
Complementing the natural allure, the resort's Bell Buoy restaurant serves delectable a la carte meals, ranging from seafood to wood-oven pizzas. The resort's strategic location also provides access to nearby attractions like the Silaka and Hluleka Nature Reserves, offering rich biodiversity and lush landscapes. Adventure seekers can enjoy abseiling at Coffee Shack or explore the rugged Mapuzi Caves and their thrilling ocean jumps. For those inclined towards more tranquil pursuits, the hiking path from Coffee Bay to Hole in the Wall offers breathtaking views. The resort, with its blend of natural beauty, comfortable accommodations, and a myriad of activities, stands as a prime destination for a memorable Wild Coast vacation.
Gqeberha - A Blend of Urban and Natural Beauty
Gqeberha, the vibrant city in the Eastern Cape, offers a perfect destination for families seeking a blend of seaside leisure and urban charm. Renowned for its pristine beaches, the city invites holidaymakers to relish in its golden sands and gentle waves - perfect for safe swimming and family fun. During the festive season, these coastal spots transform into bustling centres of joy and activity, offering a variety of water sports and attractions tailored for all ages.
The charm of Gqeberha's beaches extends beyond their natural beauty. Each shore presents a unique experience – from the lively atmosphere at King's Beach, a favourite for its ample space and child-friendly amenities, to the tranquil setting of Humewood Beach, South Africa’s oldest Blue Flag beach, praised for its serene environment and clean waters. These beaches not only provide a picturesque backdrop for relaxation but also a playground for adventure and bonding, making them excellent for families seeking a memorable holiday experience by the sea.
Where to Stay: Brookes Hill Suites
Brookes Hill Suites, located in the scenic Humewood area and overlooking splendid Algoa Bay, presents a unique blend of modern comfort and natural beauty. This charming accommodation in Gqeberha is ideally suited for both business and leisure travellers. With stylish, comfortable units, guests at Brookes Hill Suites can enjoy easy access to the beachfront. The facility boasts apartments featuring two bedrooms with options of one or two bathrooms, alongside amenities like bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fully-equipped kitchen, and patios or balconies offering views of the pool and the sea.
The commitment to providing memorable experiences extends to their range of facilities and services, ensuring maximum comfort and convenience for all guests. Whether you're there for a family break or a romantic getaway, Brookes Hill Suites caters to your needs. It also positions you perfectly to explore the Eastern Cape's diverse attractions and activities, including fishing, beach visits, cruises, canoe trails, museum tours, and even bungee jumping, making every stay an adventure.
Gordon’s Bay - Cape Town's Secluded Bay
On the scenic outskirts of Cape Town, Gordon's Bay presents itself as a charming coastal paradise, perfect for family holidays. This quaint harbour town with its quiet, luxurious atmosphere is well-known for its beaches, such as the renowned Blue Flag Bikini Beach, which is mostly used for sunbathing as it is protected from the wind, and Gordon’s Bay Beach, known for its calm waters and safe swimming conditions. These small, secluded areas offer families a peaceful haven for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and enjoying the warm South African sun. The backdrop of the majestic Hottentots Holland Mountains adds to the serene beauty of this seaside destination.
Beyond its sandy stretches, Gordon's Bay exudes a delightful village-like charm. The town's streets are lined with a variety of family-friendly eateries and unique boutiques, providing a leisurely and relaxed holiday atmosphere. Whether indulging in local culinary delights or exploring the quaint shops, families will find Gordon's Bay a tranquil and welcoming destination. Its combination of natural beauty and laid-back village vibe makes it a top spot for those seeking a tranquil, yet engaging, seaside getaway.
Where to Stay: Cape Gordonia
Cape Gordonia, located in peaceful Gordon's Bay, offers an idyllic escape from the city's hustle and bustle, with its self-catering apartments just across the street from Bikini Beach. This destination is a haven for families and couples, offering a perfect mix of affordable luxury and natural beauty. The holiday apartments provide magnificent views over the Bay and the Helderberg Mountain range, which makes it wonderful for those seeking to explore the Western Cape. The apartments come equipped with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, private braai areas, daily cleaning, and childminding services, ensuring a relaxed and worry-free vacation.
Clifton - Cape Town's Glamorous Getaway
Clifton, nestled along the coast of Cape Town, is celebrated for its four distinct beaches, each offering a unique seaside experience, making it a favoured family destination. These beaches, simply named First, Second, Third, and Fourth, cater to various tastes and activities, ensuring a memorable beach day for every family member. Known for their sparkling, azure waters and fine, white sands, Clifton's beaches provide a perfect setting for families to enjoy sunbathing, sandcastle building, and gentle sea paddling.
While each beach in Clifton has its own charm, they all share the amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean and the tranquillity of a well-protected cove, shielded from the wind by the surrounding mountains. Clifton Fourth Beach even boasts Blue Flag status. These beaches are especially enchanting during December, offering a picture-perfect spot for families to witness stunning sunsets and embrace the festive spirit. Although Clifton is known for its glamorous appeal, it also offers a serene and safe environment for families to relax, play, and create lasting holiday memories by the sea.
Where to Stay: Riviera Suites
Located along the prestigious Sea Point's Millionaire's Mile, Riviera Suites offers a splendid self-catering accommodation experience, perfect for both the discerning traveller and the leisure-focussed holidaymaker. This prime location is surrounded by the best of Cape Town – vibrant nightlife, fabulous beaches, exquisite restaurants, and a variety of sporting facilities. Guests can indulge in the luxury of spacious apartments boasting breathtaking sea views and majestic mountain vistas. Riviera Suites is not just a stay - it's a gateway to explore Cape Town's renowned attractions, including the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, the Cape Winelands, historical sites, art galleries, and top-class restaurants. Offering both the convenience of self-catering accommodation and the indulgence of quality amenities, these affordable Sea Point holiday apartments are a prime choice for an unforgettable Cape Town holiday.
Riviera Suites doesn't just cater for your accommodation needs - it enhances your entire holiday experience. The resort features a range of facilities designed to complement your stay, including free Wi-Fi, daily entertainment, and bicycle hire for exploring the scenic surroundings. Onsite amenities like a business centre and a stunning swimming pool cater to both business and leisure needs. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the luxurious La Vita Spa onsite offers a variety of wellness massages, beauty treatments, and more. Additionally, Jooma Coffee, located street-side within Riviera Suites, provides a delightful culinary experience with great coffee and a new kids menu, ensuring that every guest, regardless of age, enjoys their time in Sea Point. Whether you're here for a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, you will not regret making Riviera Suites your base for exploring the wonders of Cape Town.
Mossel Bay - Garden Route's Historical Haven
Mossel Bay, nestled along the scenic Garden Route, is a perfect combination of historical intrigue and beachside bliss, and great for family getaways. This harbour town is not only renowned for its rich cultural heritage but also boasts an impressive array of Blue Flag beaches, including De Bakke, Hartenbos, Klein Brak, Santos, and Glentana, making it a particular destination for beach enthusiasts. These beaches offer pristine conditions and exceptional facilities that meet international environmental and safety standards.
Each of Mossel Bay's Blue Flag beaches has its own unique appeal, providing families with a variety of options for seaside enjoyment. From the tranquil shores of Klein Brak and Glentana to the more bustling scenes at Santos and Hartenbos, there's a perfect spot for every preference. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean enhance the summertime experience, inviting visitors to indulge in swimming, water sports, or simply to relax and soak up the sun. Coupled with the vibrant atmosphere of the festive season, Mossel Bay is an unparalleled destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, safety, and recreational diversity.
Where to Stay: Perna Perna Mossel Bay
Situated atop a rocky hillside in Mossel Bay, the picturesque Perna Perna Mossel Bay offers an idyllic year-round destination. This resort is renowned for its upmarket self-catering apartments, each beautifully decorated and designed for maximum comfort and ease. The apartments boast open-plan living areas, fully-equipped kitchens, and modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms with free toiletries, ensuring a seamless and luxurious stay. Guests can choose from various configurations, including 2-bedroom (4-sleeper) and 3-bedroom (5-sleeper) options, all offering fantastic ocean views.
Perna Perna Mossel Bay is not just about comfortable lodging - it's an experience enriched with a multitude of onsite and nearby activities. The resort caters to families with a playground, a heated swimming pool, and the engaging Fred First Kids Club. For additional entertainment, guests have access to a games arcade and bicycle hire. Located just 1 km from the heart of Mossel Bay, which is often referred to as the pearl of Outeniqua, the resort serves as an ideal base for exploring the local area. Nearby attractions include pristine beaches, boat trips to Seal Island, and the Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. Adventureland is also close by, offering a fun-filled day for the kids. Perna Perna Mossel Bay, positioned along the spectacular Garden Route, promises a stay filled with both relaxation and adventure amidst stunning scenery.
Umhlanga – KwaZulu-Natal's Cosmopolitan Charm
Located just north of Durban, Umhlanga is the perfect seaside town, making it a favourite destination for family holidays. The area is celebrated for its range of sparkling beaches, including Umdloti Beach, Umhlanga Beach, and La Lucia Beach. Each of these beaches offers its own unique charm, from the vibrant and active atmosphere of Umhlanga Beach to the more serene and peaceful ambience of La Lucia Beach. Umdloti Beach, with its natural tidal pool, is particularly family-friendly, providing a safe environment for swimming and paddling.
The warm waters of the Indian Ocean at these beaches are perfect for a variety of water-based activities, appealing to swimmers, surfers, and those who simply wish to relax on the shore. The iconic Umhlanga and theLighthouse beautifully landscaped promenade add to the picturesque setting, inviting leisurely strolls and outdoor activities. Umhlanga's festive season is especially lively, attracting a mix of local and international tourists - this adds even more excitement to the town's cosmopolitan yet relaxed vibe. With its combination of splendid beaches and upscale amenities, Umhlanga promises a delightful and memorable holiday experience for families.
Where to Stay: Breakers Resort
Nestled in the heart of Umhlanga, Breakers Resort is a superb oceanfront property that offers an unparalleled holiday experience. With its unique horseshoe design, the resort provides a variety of luxurious accommodation options, including rooms, suites, studio, and 1- to 2-bedroom apartments, some boasting spectacular sea views. Each accommodation is thoughtfully equipped with modern amenities and elegant furnishings, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. The resort's prime location puts it just a 5-minute drive from the beautiful Umhlanga Rocks Beach and a mere 10 minutes from the vibrant Gateway Theatre of Shopping, making it one of the best choices for families, couples, and solo travellers. Guests can indulge in an array of activities, including swimming in the sparkling pools, playing beach volleyball, tennis, squash, and adventure golf, or staying active at the fitness centre. The nearby Umhlanga Beach offers a range of exciting activities, including swimming, sunbathing, surfing, jet skiing, and parasailing.
Breakers Resort doesn't just stop at luxurious accommodations and exciting activities. The onsite Reef Café offers a relaxed beach café vibe, perfect for enjoying light meals and drinks by the pool. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort's La Vita Spa is a sanctuary offering a wide range of wellness treatments, massages, manicures, and pedicures. The spa includes amenities like single and couples treatment rooms, a sunbed, Jacuzzi, sauna, and a well-stocked gift shop, along with extended trading hours to accommodate guests’ needs. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Breakers Resort in Umhlanga is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable beach holiday experience.
Ballito - The Dolphin Coast's Crown Jewel
Ballito, set along the picturesque Dolphin Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is a top destination for families seeking a blend of beachside fun and natural beauty. This charming holiday town is especially renowned for its two Blue Flag beaches, Thompson's Bay Beach and Willard Beach, both of which offer the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and environmental management. These beaches are not only visually impressive but also offer excellent facilities and safe swimming conditions, making them ideal for family outings.
Willard Beach, with its expansive stretch of golden sands and gentle waves, is perfect for a variety of beach activities, from swimming to sunbathing. Thompson's Bay Beach, known for its picturesque cove, provides a more secluded setting for families to enjoy the tranquil ocean and scenic views. In December, the town of Ballito comes to life with a vibrant holiday atmosphere, attracting both relaxation and adventure enthusiasts. With its combination of pristine beaches and festive charm, Ballito presents a perfect holiday escape for families on the Dolphin Coast.
Where to Stay: La Montagne
La Montagne Resort in Ballito, situated just 15 km from King Shaka Airport, presents an idyllic beachfront destination along the Dolphin Coast for holidaymakers. This resort boasts stunning sea views and is ideal for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, offering a variety of modern, fully-equipped, air-conditioned apartments, all with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Guests can indulge in a range of dining experiences onsite, from relaxed meals at the Palm Terrace and intimate after-dinner drinks at the Johnny Walker Bar to light meals and drinks at the B-Bar by the pool or on the deck. The resort's proximity to various attractions and activities, including beautiful beaches, a nearby casino, trail running, mountain biking, zip-lining, and the family-friendly Flag Animal Farm, ensures a memorable stay.
Beyond its exquisite accommodation, La Montagne Resort offers an abundance of activities and experiences to keep the whole family entertained. Guests can enjoy board games, daily onsite entertainment, and drive-in style movie viewings. For relaxation and rejuvenation, the luxurious onsite La Vita Spa caters to men, women, and children, offering a range of wellness treatments, massages, and beauty services in a serene environment. The facility features single and couples treatment rooms, a relaxation area, sunbed, Jacuzzi, and sauna, extending its services well into the evening. Nearby attractions like the Lifestyle Shopping Centre, Ballito Junction, snorkelling, and Umhlanga Beach further enhance the appeal of La Montagne as a premier holiday destination in Ballito.
Margate – KwaZulu-Natal's Festive Favourite
Margate, located in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, is the perfect destination for a beach holiday with its lively and inviting atmosphere. This bustling resort town is a family favourite, known for its vibrant beachfront that comes alive with a variety of water activities suitable for all ages. The golden sands of Margate's beaches, such as Margate Beach, Lucien Beach and Ramsgate South Beach, provide the perfect playground for families to indulge in sunbathing and beach games, while enjoying the warm South African sun. With safe swimming conditions and a range of water sports on offer, there's no shortage of fun and excitement for both young and old.