The Best Beach Houses on the South Coast

Looking for the perfect beach getaway? Well, look no further because I’ve got you covered! I’m here to introduce you to some of the most incredible beach houses on the South Coast. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on these hidden gems!

First up, let me tell you about the stunning Ocean Paradise. This beach house is truly a slice of heaven. With its breathtaking ocean views and luxurious amenities, you’ll feel like you’re living in a dream. Picture yourself sipping your morning coffee on the balcony, listening to the waves crash against the shore. Can you imagine anything more serene?

Next on our list is the Sunset Retreat. Just as the name suggests, this beach house offers the most incredible sunset views you’ll ever see. Imagine sitting by the window, with a glass of your favorite beverage in hand, watching the sky turn vibrant shades of orange and pink. It’s pure magic!

Now, let’s talk about the Beach Bliss cottage. This cozy little beach house is perfect for those looking for a peaceful and intimate escape. With its charming interior and proximity to the beach, you’ll instantly feel at home here. Grab a good book, kick back in a comfortable chair, and let the sound of the waves wash away all your worries.

Last but not least, we have the Seaside Oasis. This beach house is a true paradise for water lovers. Whether you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the shore, this place has it all. The crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy beaches will leave you in awe. You’ll never want to leave!

So, there you have it. These are just a few of the amazing beach houses you can find on the South Coast. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, these beach houses are guaranteed to make your trip unforgettable. Don’t wait any longer – start planning your escape to beach paradise today!

Have you ever wondered if you can trust the ratings on sites like TripAdvisor and Booking.com? While they provide lists of guest-rated accommodations, it’s hard to know if they’re truly reliable. That’s why I, Pippa, decided to take matters into my own hands. With 15 years of experience reviewing accommodations for Fodor’s, I embarked on a journey down KZN’s old coastal road to find the best beach houses between Umkomaas and Umzumbe. My goal was to rate the rated and discover some hidden gems that haven’t made it to the ratings sites yet.

Why should you choose the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast?

• Proximity: Just an hour away from Durban, you can find yourself on a secluded beach. Picture your toes sinking into the warm Indian Ocean, surrounded by lush greenery of milkwoods and wild bananas, with the occasional sound of a passing train in the distance.
• Untouched: Thanks to the railway line that runs along the coast, vast sections of the R102 have been spared from excessive development that plagues the north. Keep an eye out for beautiful spots like Widenham beach in Umkomaas, the Clansthal Conservancy, the historically interesting and upscale Pennington, and the sunny beaches and excellent surf schools of Umzumbe, which boasts a blue-flag beach and the amazing Pumula.
• Beach access: It’s rare to find places on South Africa’s coastline where you can open your garden gate and find yourself on a stunning beach without being surrounded by ugly concrete buildings. But along the R102, there are few hidden gems that offer exactly that.
• Exclusivity: The railway that runs along this coastline gives a sense of privacy to the quiet bungalows and cottages nestled among the lush dunes.
• Affordability: The South Coast provides an affordable getaway, especially during the winter months when the weather is ideal.
• Architectural history: Pennington boasts three stunning examples of early 20th-century architecture: Lynton Hall and Botha House – both constructed by Sir Frank Reynolds, a prominent sugar industry figure – and Selborne Manor House, which was the first residential golf estate in South Africa and was built in 1954 for the managing director of Reynolds Brothers Ltd.
• Diving, surfing, golf: When it comes to diving, surfing, and golf, Aliwal Shoal in Umkomaas is a top destination. It’s known as one of the best dive sites in the world. For surfing, Green Point near Clansthal offers a world-class break. And if you’re looking to improve your golf game, Selborne Park Golf Estate and Umdoni Park are two must-play courses in South Africa.

Find the perfect beach house with a fantastic pool

1. Umkomazi Rocks Beach House

Welcome to Umkomazi Rocks Beach House! I’m Josh Triegart, the owner of this amazing beach house. I like to call it the “quintessential barefoot beach house” because it combines a relaxed, down-to-earth vibe with chic and stylish elements. As an interior designer, I’ve put a lot of thought into transforming this simple bungalow into a beautiful farm-style ranch that you’ll absolutely love.

Umkomazi Rocks Beach House is designed to make the most of the stunning view from St Helier Road. When you step inside, you’ll immediately notice the eclectic furniture, interesting art, and even animal skulls that add a unique touch to the decor. The house itself is in the shape of an L, with a wrap-around veranda that opens up to breathtaking sea views. And at the heart of it all, you’ll find a 14-meter lap pool that adds a touch of elegance to the space.

This beach house is perfect for a group of friends who want to enjoy a fun and relaxing getaway. With four en-suite bedrooms, everyone will have their own private space. Three of the bedrooms have king-size beds, but you’ll have to decide who gets the queen-size bed! Each bedroom opens directly onto the veranda, allowing you to wake up to the beautiful view every morning.

Umkomazi Rocks Beach House offers plenty of space for socializing and unwinding. Inside, you’ll find a spacious lounge-dining area where you can gather with your friends. And outside, there’s a cozy outdoor lounge-dining area where you can enjoy the view while sharing delicious meals. The house also has a well-equipped kitchen, so you can easily prepare your favorite dishes.

One thing to note is that there’s no TV in the house. This is a deliberate choice to encourage relaxation and socializing. Instead of staring at a screen, you can focus on enjoying each other’s company and the beautiful surroundings. Plus, the house will be serviced after you leave, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning up.

Come and experience the beauty and charm of Umkomazi Rocks Beach House. It’s the perfect place for a beach getaway with friends, where you can relax, unwind, and create unforgettable memories. Book your stay with us now!

Price: The cost of renting this beach house starts at R3000 for a minimum stay of seven nights and R3500 for a minimum stay of three nights. It has enough space to sleep up to eight people.
How to Book: To make a reservation, click here.
Additional Recommendation: If you’re interested in beach cottages, you might also enjoy reading about the 10 coolest beach cottages in South Africa.

Affordable and Stylish Beach House

2. Highrocks Beach House

Welcome to Highrocks Beach House!

I am thrilled to tell you that Highrocks Beach House is the most budget-friendly option among the three choices on St. Helier Road. But don’t let the price fool you; it still offers the same breathtaking view as the others. All three houses are perched above the railway line, so be prepared for the occasional rumble of passing trains.

Let me give you a tour of this wonderful beach house. The indoor public area is narrow, but it’s an open-plan space that combines the kitchen, dining, and lounge areas. From here, you can step out onto the star of the show: a deep and partially shaded stoep. This is the heart of the house, where everyone can gather. You’ll find a long dining table, a comfortable L-shaped seating area, and even a couple of hammocks. But the highlight is the small yet inviting plunge pool, perfect for plunging into after a long day.

The accommodation at Highrocks Beach House is designed to cater to both adults and kids. There are four bedrooms for the grown-ups, three of which have en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning. The master suite even has a bathtub positioned next to a window so you can soak up the view while you soak in the tub. Meanwhile, the kids will have a blast in their enormous room, which features four bunk beds. This room is not only a sleeping quarters but also a playroom, ensuring they never get bored during their stay. They even have a direct access to the garden, where they will find swings and a trampoline to enjoy.

Out of the three options on St. Helier Road, Highrocks Beach House is the closest to the beach. This means you can have your toes in the sand within minutes of stepping out the front door. And for all the dog lovers out there, rejoice! Well-behaved furry family members are more than welcome to join you on your vacation.

I hope this description has given you a taste of what Highrocks Beach House has to offer. If you’re looking to create unforgettable memories in a cozy and affordable beach house, then Highrocks is the perfect choice for you.

Price: Starting at R2500 per night, St. Helier Cottage is perfect for large families or groups of friends. The house can accommodate up to 12 people, with eight adults and four kids. Plus, you’ll have the luxury of daily service from the amazing Sindy Mbele, who lives on-site!

The ultimate beach house experience

Discover the magic of St. Helier Cottage

Hey there! Let me tell you about St. Helier Cottage.

This place has got it all – tucked away at the end of a panhandle, it feels safe and secure. And when you step inside, prepare to be amazed. The living space is cool and uncluttered, with modern lines and natural materials. But it’s the view that will really blow you away. From the floor-to-ceiling wall of glass, you can see a perfectly manicured green lawn that drops off into the blue horizon. It’s like something out of a dream.

And this cottage is not just beautiful, it’s also cleverly designed. The bathrooms have huge mirrored sliding doors that reflect the view and add a touch of luxury. And hidden in the garden is a set of stairs that lead to a private guest bedroom, separate from the main house. It’s the perfect spot for visitors who want a little extra privacy.

The outdoor spaces are just as amazing. The balau-timber exterior is stylishly furnished and well-proportioned. It’s obvious that a lot of thought went into the design. And that’s because the owner, Joy Brasler, was part of the team that created the award-winning interiors for Singita Lebombo Lodge, one of the top-ranked hotels in the world. So you know you’re in good hands.

But it’s not just about the looks here. St. Helier Cottage is also incredibly comfortable and well-equipped. And Joy and Lucien, the owners, have a welcoming attitude that makes you feel right at home. You can’t ask for much more than that.

One thing to note – there are trains that pass by in the distance, but personally, I found the sound quite soothing. And with a view like this, waking up with the sun is a small price to pay. St. Helier Cottage is a place where you can truly relax, cook up a storm, lose yourself in a good book, or simply let your mind wander. It’s a little slice of paradise.

Cost: The cost for staying at St. Helier starts at R5000 per night. The house can accommodate up to 10 people, with four bedrooms available. There is space for six adults, and four children can sleep in a room with two bunk beds. The house is serviced three times a week to ensure cleanliness and comfort during your stay.
Contact: For more information and bookings, please visit perfecthideaways.co.za/Details/St-Helier

The Best Guest House for Golfers

4. Botha House

TripAdvisor Ranking: Ranked number one out of one B&B/Inn in Pennington

Back in 1918, General Louis Botha asked his friend Sir Frank Reynolds to find him a small piece of land to build a cottage for his wife Annie. Although Louis never got to see it, Reynolds built Botha House on the ridge in Umdoni Park, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Annie would spend her winters and final days in this historic Cape Dutch gabled homestead.

Even today, Botha House is part of the Umdoni Park, under the watchful eye of the Umdoni Park Trust. It has preserved its original charm, with the same teak furniture and china handpicked by Reynolds back in 1920. Staying in this unique place of just six rooms is truly an extraordinary experience.

Right next door, you’ll find the Umdoni Park Golf Club, managed by Tony Hallet, who also happens to be the golf captain. While you can walk to the beach from the house, it’s worth noting that the coast with its crashing waves isn’t ideal for swimming. Instead, take a short drive or walk to Pennington’s main beach.

At Botha House, you can expect warm and personal service. If you wish, you can enjoy simple home-cooked dinners upon request.

Hey there! Need some tips for finding the perfect hotel room? Look no further!

Let me tell you about a fantastic place called Botha House. If you’re in the mood for a cozy getaway, Mrs. Botha’s suite in Room 1 or 2 is the way to go. It’s the best pick because it’s super comfortable and has all the amenities you could need. I highly recommend it!

Now, let’s talk about the cost. At Botha House, you can get a room for just R450 per person sharing with breakfast included. That’s a great deal for such a fantastic place!

So, if you’re ready to book your stay, head over to bothahouse.co.za to make your reservation. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

And here’s a bonus tip:

If you’re traveling with the family, Pumula Beach Hotel is the ideal choice.

It’s consistently ranked as the number one hotel in Umzumbe on TripAdvisor, so you know it’s good. You’ll enjoy the beautiful beach surroundings and plenty of family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect spot for a memorable vacation!

Pumula Beach Hotel is a fantastic place to stay. It’s right on the beach, and what sets it apart is that it’s not just relying on its prime location. The entire hotel has a fresh and pristine appearance, even when you’re so close to the sea. The staff is friendly and full of energy, and the facilities are top-notch.

I’ve come across many hotels that claim to be family-friendly, but Pumula Beach Hotel is on par with Umngazi River Bungalows on the Wild Coast as the best beach hotel for families in South Africa. They go above and beyond by providing a comprehensive children’s program during holidays. Kids have their own designated lounge, game room, toilets in their size, and a dining area. While children can eat with adults, it’s encouraged for parents to have some adult time. Plus, they offer surf lessons through a local business, a mini-golf course, a soccer field, and, of course, a beautiful tidal pool and a beach with a blue flag designation. And the best part is that the rates are incredibly reasonable.

The food at Pumula Beach Hotel is delicious and traditional. The only downside is that it can be challenging to book a room during school holidays. But with all the amazing features and benefits this hotel offers, it’s no wonder it’s such a popular choice for families.

Cost: Starting at R1075 per person per night, including dinner, breakfast, and lunch for adults. Discounts available for children: R580 per person (10-14 years), R425 per person (6-9 years), R275 per person (1-5 years), all sharing meals.

Perfect for surfers, families, friends, and even dogs!

6. Clansthal Beach House

Hey there! Welcome to Clansthal Beach House.

Just take a moment to look straight ahead. Can you see that Aliwal reef about five kilometers offshore? And to the right, that’s the Green Point break, considered one of the best surf spots in the entire world. Pretty amazing, right?

Let me introduce myself. I’m John McCarthy, owner of Clansthal Beach House. Before I dive into the details, you should know something about me. I used to be a runner-up in the South African surf championships and now I’m what you’d call a “surfpreneur.” I’ve surfed at incredible spots around the globe, but you know what? Nothing can tear me away from KZN during the winter months. It’s just that good.

Now, picture this. We’re standing on the spacious veranda of Clansthal Beach House. It’s such a peaceful place. Oh, and did I mention that it’s pet-friendly? Yeah, you can bring your furry best friend along too! From here, you can see a small pool right next to us. And when you look down, you’ll notice a sweeping staircase that leads to a beautiful subtropical garden. It’s the kind of garden where playful monkeys jump and play. How cool is that?

Behind us is a lovely cottage, fully furnished for your comfort. It’s pretty spacious, with five bedrooms. Two of those rooms have double beds, two have double beds and an extra single bed, and one room has a double bunk bed on the bottom and a single bed on the top. There’s plenty of space for the whole family!

But wait, there’s more. You’re just a quick 150-meter stroll away from the semi-private beach. You heard that right. A stunning beach, practically at your doorstep. It’s like your own little slice of paradise.

Let me fill you in on a little secret. Clansthal Conservancy is like a hidden gem along the south coast. It’s part of the Aliwal Marine Protected Area, so it’s untouched and absolutely beautiful. It’s like a glitch in the matrix, if you ask me. Even the local Chief’s Cabin pub has remained unchanged over the years. And their prices? Well, let’s just say you’ll be smiling when you see that a beer is only R12. Happy hour indeed!

Cost: Starting at R2500 (sleeps 12); can be serviced upon request for an additional R150 per day.
Contact: Visit sa-venues.com/visit/clansthalbeachhouse for more information.

Why you’ll love Umbhobe Beach House

7. The Best Cozy Beach Getaway

Hey there! Welcome to Umbhobe Beach House.

So, imagine this: you’re driving along a bumpy road, heading towards Kelso beach, which is just four kilometers north of Pennington. As you cross over the railway line, you’ll find yourself in a little cluster of houses tucked away under the shade of beachfront milkwoods. That’s where you’ll find UmBhobe, a cozy log cabin on stilts, surrounded by the lush canopy.

This fantastic cabin has three bedrooms, and it’s like a little slice of paradise. It comfortably sleeps six people, with two queen beds and a third room with twin beds. And hey, there are even two extra mattresses if you’ve got little ones joining you!

But wait, it gets even better. Just a few steps away from the front door, you’ll find a timber gate that leads to a private beach. Yep, you heard that right – it’s practically your own private slice of beach heaven! The only other way to access this stunning stretch of coast is from Happy Wanderers Holiday Resort, which is about a 10-minute stroll north along the beach. Now, don’t get me wrong, Happy Wanderers has its perks, with a great beachfront location and a decent restaurant-bar. However, when it comes to accommodation, UmBhobe has got it beat.

Now, I have to be honest with you. If you’ve got teenagers who crave constant social interaction, UmBhobe might not be the best fit. It’s a bit remote for their tastes. However, if you’re a family with young kids or you’re just looking for a peaceful retreat, then this is the place for you. Picture yourself lounging on the sun deck, soaking up the rays. Or maybe you’d prefer to go snorkeling in the tidal pools, exploring the underwater wonders. And of course, you can’t forget those long, leisurely walks on the empty beach, the gentle sound of the waves lulling you into a state of pure relaxation.

So come on over to UmBhobe Beach House, where tranquility and quality time are waiting for you. And trust me, once you experience it for yourself, you’ll fall in love!

The cost of staying at The Fat Hamster starts at R1400 for a minimum of three nights during the week, and R1750 for a minimum of two nights over the weekend. The house is serviced every second day, ensuring a clean and comfortable stay. If you’re looking for a beach house that can accommodate a large group, The Fat Hamster is the best choice.

Located at umbhobe.co.za, The Fat Hamster is the perfect location for a family reunion or a gathering of friends. With its spacious layout and sleeping arrangements for up to six people, there is plenty of room for everyone to relax and enjoy their stay.

When you book a stay at The Fat Hamster, you can expect a well-maintained and comfortable beach house that is perfect for creating lasting memories. The house is serviced every second day, ensuring that you have everything you need for a relaxing vacation.

Choosing the right beach house for your reunion is important, and The Fat Hamster offers everything you need for a memorable and enjoyable getaway. Book your stay today and experience the beauty and comfort of this amazing beach house.

Welcome to The Fat Hamster!

I’m excited to tell you about our beautiful beach house in the highly desirable Cherry Lane, Pennington. Located right on the beach, you’ll have direct access to the stunning shoreline just beyond our secure garden gate. Our house has a unique L-shape design, surrounding a large pool, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere.

When you step inside, you’ll immediately feel at home. The Fat Hamster has a cozy, lived-in vibe that makes it the perfect getaway. Our expansive garden is a true gem, although some areas are covered in brick. Don’t worry, there’s still plenty of room to play and relax. Additionally, we have a spacious pool that offers the perfect place to cool off and have fun.

For those traveling with a larger group, you’ll find our accommodations more than suitable. We have a total of 10 bedrooms, providing ample space for everyone. This includes two bunk bedrooms designed for kids, each sleeping four. In total, we can comfortably accommodate 16 adults and eight children.

Mealtimes at The Fat Hamster are truly special. Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor dining, we have you covered. Our indoor dining table is spacious enough to seat everyone, ensuring a delightful experience for all. And if you love the idea of an al fresco meal, our outdoor dining area, shaded by a magnificent tree, offers a serene and picturesque setting.

Your safety is our top priority, and owner George Sabatta has taken every precaution to ensure a secure stay. With a well-fenced property, alarm system, and CCTV cameras, you can have peace of mind during your visit. Additionally, each opening in the house is equipped with Trellidors for added security. Our helpful live-in housekeeper, John Goor, will dutifully close these at night, unless instructed otherwise by you.

So, come and experience the magic of The Fat Hamster. We offer a truly unique and unforgettable beach house getaway. Book your stay with us and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Cost: The cost of staying at Selborne Hotel holiday villas is R7500, and the accommodation can sleep up to 24 people. The great thing is that the villas are serviced daily, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and worry-free.

Best for golfers

9. Selborne Hotel holiday villas

Welcome to Selbourne Golf Hotel!

If you’re looking to play the Augusta of Africa, but the Selborne Hotel is up for sale, don’t worry! Renting one of the houses on the estate is the perfect solution. And when it comes to finding a place to stay, Exclusive Holiday Villas has you covered.

Let me tell you about Exclusive Holiday Villas. They have a fantastic collection of estate villas, all managed by the warm and efficient Pauline Fahr-Becker. She really knows how to run a tight ship, so you can expect everything to be perfect. I mean, every house literally gleams!

Now, I have to be honest with you. The golf estate isn’t within walking distance of the beach. But don’t worry about that. It’s just a five-minute drive away. And the best part? All the villas come with an access card to the exclusive Selborne Beach Club. With that, you get private access to Pennington Beach. How awesome is that?

Now let’s talk about the important stuff. The cost. The villas at Exclusive Holiday Villas can sleep anywhere from six to fourteen people. And the prices start at R1600 for the smaller ones and R3500 for the larger ones. You really can’t beat that!

If you’re ready to book your stay, just head on over to exclusiveholidayvillas.co.za. They’ll take care of everything for you.

Also, there’s something else you might want to consider…

I’m excited to tell you about Villa Umdoni, located in the beautiful Eden Rock Estate. This estate is a safe and secure complex right next to the prestigious Selborne Park Golf Estate. What makes Villa Umdoni stand out among the rest is its incredible location. It overlooks a vast expanse of untouched wilderness and offers a stunning view of the distant ocean. You won’t find a better spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Gabriele Lachinger, an expert interior designer, has furnished three villas in this estate to an exceptionally high standard. Each villa is highly recommended, but Villa Umdoni truly shines. From its carefully chosen furnishings to its meticulous attention to detail, this four-bedroom villa offers an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring.

If you’re looking for something a bit different, Trust Cottage in Umdoni Park is the answer. This charming bungalow dates back to the 1920s and is surrounded by lush, indigenous forest. While the accommodations are basic, there is a certain old-fashioned charm that adds to its appeal. The secluded location and affordable price make it a popular choice for bachelor groups on golfing vacations. At just R250 per person (with a minimum charge of R600 per night), it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice on atmosphere.

No matter which option you choose, both Villa Umdoni and Trust Cottage offer unique experiences that are sure to leave you with lasting memories. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the South African landscape and enjoy a well-deserved vacation.

Welcome to La Providence Guest House, a hidden treasure located just south of Port Shepstone. This charming bed and breakfast offers four beautifully furnished bedrooms and is situated right on Oslo beach. Make sure to reserve one of the two rooms with a breathtaking sea view. Prices start at a budget-friendly R375 per person, including a delicious breakfast.

Are you in search of an affordable yet luxurious getaway? Look no further than Thandulula Luxury Safari Tents. This non-beach accommodation, conveniently located near Southport beach, offers comfortable tents built on raised wooden decks. Annatjie Dreyer ensures that the tents are meticulously maintained, providing you with a delightful retreat. Prices start at R325 per person, and housekeeping services are provided daily.

If you prefer a vintage beach cottage experience, Fig Tree Lane Beach Cottage in Pennington is the perfect choice. Enjoy stunning sea views and easy access to the beach from this cozy bungalow. Prices start at R200 per person, and a minimum nightly rate of R500 applies (accommodates up to six guests).

For a modern beachfront escape in Pennington, consider Ocean Eden. This collection of contemporary houses offers the ultimate seaside retreat. With direct access to Pennington beach and spacious accommodations for up to eight people, Ocean Eden is the perfect choice for a memorable getaway. Prices start at R1800 per night.

Where should we go next? Let us know on Twitter (@getawaymagazine and @pippadebruyn) which places you want us to explore. Keep in mind, this article was first published in August 2015 in Getaway magazine. If you want to access this issue, click here →
Please note that the prices mentioned in this article were accurate at the time of publication, but they may have changed since then. It’s always a good idea to double-check with the establishments before you travel.