{"id":42906,"date":"2021-11-14T21:59:10","date_gmt":"2021-11-14T19:59:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/?p=42906"},"modified":"2021-11-14T21:59:10","modified_gmt":"2021-11-14T19:59:10","slug":"the-top-15-water-sports-to-try-on-the-kzn-south-coast-this-summer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/more-sport\/the-top-15-water-sports-to-try-on-the-kzn-south-coast-this-summer\/","title":{"rendered":"The top 15 water sports to try on the KZN South Coast this summer"},"content":{"rendered":"

With the temperatures rising and holidays approaching, it\u2019s time to splash in the refreshing waters of the KZN South Coast for the ultimate summer vibes! With Blue Flag beaches, lagoons, rivers and dams to enjoy, the KZN South Coast is the perfect destination for adventure seekers looking to try new water sports in an idyllic holiday location.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cMany holidaymakers are looking to try something new and exciting in the beautiful outdoors, with our all-year-round good weather and subtropical climate, water sports are extremely popular,\u201d said Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT). \u201cThe KZN South Coast offers visitors a variety of exciting water sports for everyone from beginners to the more experienced. Our dedicated tourism operators are also on hand to hire out the required equipment, or provide lessons over the holiday period.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Surfing <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

When it comes to surfing, the KZN South Coast can\u2019t be beat! Considered one of Africa\u2019s prime surfing destinations, visitors can attempt to \u2018hang 10\u2019 at any of the 58 beaches, with resident surfers ready to assist in making the dream a reality. The area is home to numerous champion surfers and some memorable point breaks.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contacts:<\/span><\/strong> Umzumbe Surf Camp at 073 536 8728\u00a0\u00a0 or umzumbesurfcamp@gmail.com<\/a> \/ Surf Action (Margate) at 039\u00a0317 3604 or waveact@mweb.co.za<\/a> \/Heather Clark Surf Adventures (Former World Champ) on 082\u00a0437 7839 or surfadventures33@gmail.com<\/a> \/ Southbroom Surf School (Royden) on 083\u00a0737 0823 \/ Blue Marlin in Scottburgh on 071 613 1953.<\/span><\/p>\n

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2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Bodyboarding<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Numerous beach breaks provide the perfect opportunity to learn to bodyboard. Bodyboarding is one of the best ways to learn to read the ocean conditions and ride waves.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contact<\/span><\/strong>: Surf Action (Margate) at 039\u00a0317 3604 or waveact@mweb.co.za<\/a> \/ Blow Out Bodyboarding on 072\u00a0073 1533 \/ Surf Shack Coaching on 083\u00a0694 7885.<\/span><\/p>\n

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3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Scuba diving <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Aliwal Shoal off Umkomaas and Protea Banks off Shelly Beach are both Marine Protected Areas and two of the world\u2019s top diving sites. Get underwater and check out a variety of sharks, rays and kaleidoscope of fish.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contacts<\/span><\/strong>: Aliwal Dive Centre 039 973 2233 or www.aliwalshoal.co.za<\/a> \/ Aliwal Shoal Scuba 082 800 4668 or aliwalshoalscuba@gmail.com<\/a> \/ Umkomaas Lodge Dive Charters 039 973 2542 \/ African Dive Adventures 082 456 7885 or www.afridive.com<\/a> \/ Aqua Planet Dive Centre & Charter 039 315 7524 or www.aquaplanet.co.za<\/a> \/ Shark Cage Diving KZN 039 978 1045 \/ Offshore Adventures South Coast 079 491 1574 or 082 566 4946.<\/span><\/p>\n

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4.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Snorkelling<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Simply bring a mask, snorkel and flippers and your holiday is made! The KZN South Coast is home to around 20 tidal pools \u2013 the highest number in the province \u2013 as well as beautiful rock pools and warm ocean water. A must-visit is Trafalgar Beach, a Blue Flag Beach and part of a Marine Protected Area with underwater fossil beds dating back 90 million years.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contact<\/span><\/strong>: Freediving South Africa (Kent Taylor) on 071\u00a0613 1953 or kent@freedivingsouthafrica.com<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

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5.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Kayaking <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Calm lagoons and gorgeous beaches set the scene for an ideal day out kayaking. Some of the best KZN South Coast beaches to try this water sport are Scottburgh, Umtentweni, Lucien, Southbroom, Marina, San Lameer or Glenmore. There\u2019s also the incredible Umzimkhulu River accessible from the Port Shepstone Marina with guided tours also available.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contact: <\/span><\/strong>Umzimkulu River Marina on 079 326 9671 or umzimkulu@gmail.com\/<\/a> Kayak Trips Port Shepstone on 082\u00a0376 3776 or mark.lawlor69@gmail.com<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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6.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Deep sea fishing\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Anglers are drawn to this part of the world for some of the most exciting deep sea fishing expeditions. The temperate climate and sunny skies make this a prime fishing spot. In summer, expect to reel in shad, bronze bream, pompano, brusher, stumpnose, stone bream, blacktail, cave bass, sharks and flatfish. In winter, expect to catch shad, garrick, kob, bronze bream, stumpnose, blacktail and sharks. The KZN South Coast has numerous deep sea fishing charters operating at several launch sites \u2013 visitors just need to check the rules when fishing around the Marine Protected Areas at Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contacts:<\/span><\/strong> Hibberdene Ski Boat Club on 039\u00a0699 2235 \/ Shelly Beach Ski Boat Club 039\u00a0315 1476 \/ Marlin Ski Boat Club (Port Edward) 039\u00a0311 2811.<\/span><\/p>\n

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7.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Rock-and-surf fishing<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

There are numerous great places to cast a line from the shore, including Umkomaas River mouth, Scottburgh point, Rocky Bay, Umdoni Point, The Sandspit Beach in Port Shepstone, Margate and Uvongo Piers \u2013 among others! Again, checking the rules when fishing near Marine Protected Areas is important, and permits are required at all times.<\/span><\/p>\n

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8.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Spearfishing<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

For those wanting to combine a bit of diving and fishing, there are plenty of opportunities along the KZN South Coast to partake in shore entry dives.<\/span><\/p>\n

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9.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Stand up paddleboarding <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Get to the KZN South Coast to learn the fastest-growing water sport around the world. Also known as paddle boarding or SUP\u2019ing, this is a great sport for fun and fitness, with the KZN South Coast waters the perfect place to learn the trade.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contact<\/span><\/strong>: Go SUP Surf Africa on 062\u00a0604 1962.<\/span><\/p>\n

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10.\u00a0\u00a0 Kitesurfing <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

For the adrenaline-seeking water enthusiasts, kitesurfing is one to try! This sport harnesses the power of the wind through a parachute-type kite to propel the rider across the water, ramping the waves and flying to great heights.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contact<\/span><\/strong>: Go Kitesurf Africa on 062\u00a0604 1962.<\/span><\/p>\n

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11.\u00a0\u00a0 Wakeboarding<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

The combination of waterskiing, snowboarding and surfing techniques has resulted in the epic water sport of wakeboarding. The rider is towed by a rope behind a boat, and as the confidence increases, the skills will increase to involve mid-air tricks!<\/span><\/p>\n

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12.\u00a0\u00a0 White water rafting<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Another fantastic water sport to try on the KZN South Coast is white water rafting on the area\u2019s beautiful Umzimkhulu River. Led by experienced guides, visitors will navigate rapids and enjoy a scenic adventure that gives insight into another side of this magnificent region.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contacts: Wild 5 Adventures (Oribi Gorge) on 082\u00a0566 7424 or info@wild5adventures.co.za<\/a> \/ Oribi Outdoors on 082\u00a0844 0995 or adam@oribioutdoors.com<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

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13.\u00a0\u00a0 Pedalo<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A family favourite and always a fun outing, Ramsgate Lagoon is a popular hotspot for this easy-going water sports\u2019 activity. Simply head to Ramsgate Main Beach to hire a pedalo and lifejackets for the whole family to enjoy.<\/span><\/p>\n

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14.\u00a0\u00a0 Boat Rides<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

There are many tourism operators on the KZN South Coast that give families the chance to enjoy fun boat rides. These are \u2018see the sea\u2019 short trips with the chance of seeing frolicking dolphins and migrating whales. There\u2019s also the incredible Umzimkulu sunset boat cruise offered by Umzimkulu Adrenaline.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contact<\/span><\/strong>: Umzimkulu Adrenaline on 079\u00a0326 9671 or umzimkulu@gmail.com<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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15.\u00a0\u00a0 Water Park<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

The Wild Waves Water Park This epic family-friendly water park offers an assortment of aquatic rides, slides, tubes, pedal boats, plunge pools and the Lazy River suited to all ages and interests \u2013 from the thrill-seekers to those in the mood for relaxation. There\u2019s also a designated children\u2019s area for increased safety. There\u2019s also the Riverside Cocktail and Aqua Sports on the pristine riverbank of the Mtamvuna which combines adventure and relaxation with an offering of water sports and river activities including kayaking, speed boats, paddle boats, tube rides, water skiing, wakeboarding and a lazy boat cruise. All water activities are child-friendly and supervised by professional aquatic guides. Further north, the Jolly Roger in Hibberdene has super tubes for the whole family to enjoy and Scottburgh Main Beach also has a popular super tube slide.<\/span><\/p>\n

Contacts:<\/span><\/strong> Wild Waves Water Park on 039\u00a0305 4800 or thabani.simamane@suninternational.com<\/a> \/ The Riverside at Wild Coast Sun on 836 629\u00a0096 or info@the-riverside.co.za<\/a> \/ The Jolly Roger Fun Pub & Grub on 039 699 3307.<\/span><\/p>\n

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To discover these and more exciting activities on the KZN South Coast, download the free \u2018Explore KZN South Coast\u2019 app from Google Play and Apple stores, or visit <\/span>www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za<\/span><\/a><\/span>. Alternatively, check out \u2018South Coast Tourism\u2019 on Facebook or YouTube, @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram, or \u2018Info Ugu South Coast Tourism\u2019 on LinkedIn. Follow the hashtags #KZNsouthcoast #summervibes #gosouth #summerishere #familyadventure #kidfriendly #adventuretravel #extendyourstay.<\/span><\/p>\n

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With the temperatures rising and holidays approaching, it\u2019s time to splash in the refreshing waters of the KZN South Coast for the ultimate summer vibes! With Blue Flag beaches, lagoons, rivers and dams to enjoy, the KZN South Coast is the perfect destination for adventure seekers looking to try new water sports in an idyllic […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":58746,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"tdm_status":"","tdm_grid_status":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[9222,9224,8538,4415,9223,1253,9221,9220],"class_list":["post-42906","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-more-sport","tag-bodyboard","tag-deep-sea-fishing","tag-kzn-south-coast","tag-olivia-jones-communications","tag-scuba-diving","tag-surfing","tag-umzumbe-surf-camp","tag-water-sports"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42906","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=42906"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42906\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=42906"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=42906"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/southafricatoday.net\/sport\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=42906"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}