Anerley, South Coast

Anerley lies just eight kilometres north of Port Shepstone, sandwiched between Sunwich Port and Southport on the south coast of KwaZulu Natal.

Like many of the other typical little resorts along this stretch of coast, Anerley is largely about the beach, sunshine and general slowing down - unless you intend heading down this way during the peak season, in which case you will be sharing your space with a myriad others intent on similar. The advantage to Anerley is that one benefits from the highlights of both Port Shepstone and Durban, if you are prepared to travel for the day, with the distinct pleasure of returning to the slower pace of the little village, and the sedate whoosh of the sea at night. Port Shepstone’s beach in particular is wide, provides some of the best rock angling in the vicinity and has a large tidal pool that is ideal for children.

Head inland a little and Oribi Gorge, the beautiful 400 metre deep gorge that is part of a nature reserve that stretches between Port Shepstone and Harding, provides hours of hiking, birding and kloofing. The world’s highest swing is located here - you can jump off a 33-storey waterfall. It lasts but a few horrifying seconds, but word has it that it’s worth the plunge!

But life along the south coast is really about beaches, sunshine and water sports. Deep sea fishing, diving and snorkelling are all catered for, and golf courses abound on Anerley’s section of the coast. And the grassland, coastal and riverine forest in the area has an abundant bird life, and plenty of beautiful picnic spots.