Widenham, South Coast

Pretty Widenham lies in the lower reaches of Umkomaas on the southern side of the Mkhomazi River mouth, roughly 50 kilometres south of Durban. Largely residential and filled with lovely beach cottages, the area is geared for holiday escapes and beach side vacations. The combination of lovely homes, clear skies, typical south coast vegetation, and the sheltered surfing and swimming beach, easily makes it one of the loveliest places along the coast to stay.

It helps that most of Umkomaas lies on a hill, allowing wonderful sea views, and that but five kilometres offshore you will find the Aliwal Shoal, drawing divers from around the world. The shoal lies on the the inner edge of the Mozambiquen current, which means warm waters and great visibility. There is also a huge array of fish out there and rays, turtles, sharks and mantas, as well as schools of dolphins, are a common occurence. The shoal runs for about five kilometres along the coast and is a wonderful experience for divers.

But the beautiful beach, dominated by rocks perfect for fishermen, and a tidal pool lit at night, is not all that makes a visit here a perfect holiday. Attractions like Crocworld and the Empisini Nature Reserve, both really close to Umkomaas, make great day outings on days when the weather doesn't play along. Clansthal, one of the closest villages to Widenham, is a little former German-American mission town, which also provides a sublime beachside experience. Just above the village, and one of the reasons to visit, is the Green Point light house.