For those chasing sun, not snow—these five coastal escapes stay warm when the rest of the country gets chilly. From wild Northern Cape shores to tropical KZN estuaries, these off-season gems are perfect for a winter beach break.
Port Nolloth (Northern Cape)
A beach in Port Nolloth/LBM1948/Wikimedia Commons
Once a diamond rush hub, Port Nolloth is now a sleepy seaside town on the far northwest coast. Sheltered by a protective reef and known for its calm lagoon, this is a rare beach escape in the Northern Cape—made even better by its sunny, dry winters.
- Winter weather: Daytime highs of 20–23°C, cool nights
- Why it works in winter: The air is dry and clear, with virtually no rainfall….
Censorship Issues: While South Africa has a free press, there have been instances
of censorship and pressure on journalists.
Nola
Bra / Bru – friend. This term is commonly used to call a friend, pal or buddy.
Captain Peroxide
Fun South African Fact: The waters surrounding the 2,500km long coastline are teeming with life. You’ll find great white sharks, African penguins, dolphins and much much more in South Africa’s oceans. Many travellers visit the coast to watch the annual whale migrations. In Hermanus, in the Western Cape, you can see hundreds of whales from June to late November. Simon’s Town, another coastal Western Cape town, is home to Boulder’s Beach. Here you can swim alongside colonies of African Penguins!