Umzinto, South Coast
Named after the Mzinto River, Umzinto is located on the Umdoni Coast in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. The Umzinto River is so named because of its destructive nature during floods. The planters and millers started growing cane on the hilly terrain around the Mzinto River from 1857. A year later, the first public sugar company started up in the area. Sadly, 7 years later the mill was struck by lightning which lead to total bankruptcy. Today however, Umzinto remains a busy town with a mixture of colonial and Indian architecture.
Umzinto is a town that has lasted the ages and grown steadily over the many years of endless trading. Indians that were brought in to work on the cane farms in 1860 have made a valuable contribution to economy of the town. Shopping in this little town is an "Eastern" experience and boasts a lot of charm.
A stroll in this reserve is a spectacular experience. The 11km “Happy Gold Mine” trail in the reserve leads to an aged gold mine which still holds the mine shafts as well as a steam traction machine with the main traction engine and ball mill machine in place. The reserve offers superb picnic sites and walks. King Shaka also visited this area on his travels and within the reserve lays the words: “Umthombo Kashaka” meaning a well of fresh water, found by his warriors. According to historians, Shaka relaxed here on his homeward journey in 1828, whilst his army sported on the beach making mock attacks against the waves that are today enjoyed by holidaymakers.
Umzinto’s beaches are serene and picturesque. Shark nets make for safe swimming, snorkelling and surfing. The warm waters complement the unique beauty of these beaches and boast ample tropical fish and stunning coral reefs. These beaches are also popular fishing destinations.
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options
Little Swift Sea Cottage
Little Swift Sea Cottage is a self catering three-bedroom holiday home in Scottburgh located only a ten minute walk from the beach, one of the be...
Boulevard 6
Offering self catering accommodation for six guests, Boulevard 6 is located in the Margate Boulevard complex. The complex is within walking dista...
Villa Siesta Chalet 2
Villa Siesta Chalet 2 is located at Villa Siesta, a relaxing and secure family-friendly holiday resort situated in the tranquil village of Anerle...
Du Bantry 8
Located in a secure complex on the Uvongo beachfront, Du Bantry 8 provides accommodation in Uvongo for four guests. The complex is ideally locate...
Seaview 16 La Luce
Seaview 16 La Luce holiday apartment has two bedrooms which sleep two people each and in addition, the lounge has a sleeper couch for two people....
Mont Blanc 17
Mont Blanc 17 is a furnished self catering holiday apartment in Margate located in the secure Mont Blanc complex close to the beach in Margate, a...
Santorini Unit N
Santorini Unit N is situated in the heart of Margate. The apartment is within walking distance to the Margate main swimming beach, Margate Pier, ...
Kuta Beach 7
Kuta Beach 7 is in the Kuta Beach complex and offers self catering in Ramsgate. The complex has wood and stone finishes, giving it an Indonesian ...
San Lameer Villa 2514
San Lameer Villa 2514 is a studio villa located in the San Lameer Estate. The estate was the very first golfing estate developed in South Africa,...
Noteworthy attractions
Mkambati Nature Reserve
Flanked on either side by the forested ravines of the Msikaba and Mtentu Rivers, Mkambati Nature Reserve is 8000 hectares of coastal reserve that...
Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve
The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is a wonderfully scenic area offering excellent hiking opportunities. The area boasts cliffs and forests and spect...
Umtamvuna Nature Reserve
The Umtamvuna Nature Reserve is famous for its magnificent views of the deep Umtamvuna River Gorge. Umtamvuna is a treasure house of rare and end...
Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve
The Vernon Crookes is a delightful and convenient reserve for travellers holidaying on the South Coast of KwaZulu Natal. Vernon Crookes Nature Re...
Amanzimtoti Golf Club
Set just south of Durban and on the white sandy shores of KwaZulu Natal lays the Amanzimtoti Golf Course and Country Club. Originally opened, in ...
Margate Country Club
Margate golf course game may appear to be easy at first, don’t be lulled into contentment; this is an extensively challenging course. The Margate...
Port Shepstone Country Club
Port Shepstone's golf course is one of the most popular along the South Coast and is well supported by local and overseas visitors alike. The cou...
San Lameer Country Club
The San Lameer golf course is situated on the Durban South Coast and is rated one of the top 30 South African golf courses. Opened in 1922 the co...
Scottburgh Golf Club
Scottburgh Golf Club's undulating golf course has a most attractive setting with the sight and sounds of the Indian Ocean always in the backgroun...
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