Happy days at the beach

Happy days at the beach beckon when you’re visiting Sodwana Bay Lodge. Designated as South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 in recognition of its incredible natural beauty and rich biodiversity, Sodwana Bay beach is one of 10 nature areas protected under the auspices of iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Spending a pleasant morning, afternoon or day here is almost compulsory during your stay. You’ll have to pass through a boom gate and pay the iSimangaliso Wetland Park entrance fee, but fortunately our visitors pay a reduced fee.

Car guards man the car park, while the park office is located further along the road. For last-minute emergency supplies, visit the small supermarket and fuel station.

Much to do

Given its warm waters, swimming should definitely be on your to-do list. And walking the shores is a visual delight with the untouched coral reefs with their dazzling colours and rich sea life.

Well, what else to do on the beach? You know the drill. Play volleyball, beach bats, paddle, build sandcastles and soak up the scenery.

Surfing and kitesurfing

When there’s a good swell running and the appropriate wind, the Sodwana Bay beach’s surf is up there with the best. ‘Both lefts and rights, forming over reefs and sand bars can wall up and get very powerful for the more advanced surfer,’ according to sodwanabay.com. And the bay is also perfect for beginners to enjoy mid- and shore breaks.

There’s kitesurfing too. If you’re no pro yet, lessons are done on the beach 7 days a week, wind and weather dependant. Just contact Louis Olivier. He offers two-hour taster lessons.

Stay sun-safe

But whether summer or winter, Sodwana Bay is blessed with plenty sunshine. So, you can bask in the warmth of the rays, but will forever regret exposing your skin to the UV light without sunscreen. So lather up with SPF50 sunscreen (on cloudy days too) and if you’re doing water sport, use a sun block.

Ready to pack your bags for happy days on the beach? See you soon.

Photo credit: southafrica.co.za