Lubanzi Beach in Mthatha, Eastern Cape (original) (raw)

About Lubanzi Beach

The Wild Coast of South Africa is special. It is raw, dramatic, and breath-takingly beautiful. Lubanzi Beach is one of its little secrets � an unspoilt retreat from the real world; where white sands, clear blue skies, and the verdant greenery of the Transkei are celebrated in one very special spot.

Lubanzi Beach is relatively small, but offers plenty in the way of places to tan, walk, play beach games, or enjoy a horse ride on the sand. The blue waters of the Indian Ocean are warm and popular for surfing, fishing, swimming, and SCUBA diving. All through the year, there�s a chance that dolphins can be seen surfing the waves or speeding behind them, while whales often make an appearance during the latter half of the year.

Strolling this beach at night is nothing short of magical, thanks to the phosphorescence in the waves, while sunrises over the beach are well worth the early wake-up call. Star-gazing is also particularly rewarding here, thanks to the total absence of city lights.

Lubanzi Beach shares its name with the Lubanzi Xhosa Village that is perched on it. Visit the village, sample the traditional foods, and be part of its cultures and customs. There is an estuary nearby, which is great for fishing, paddling, and bird-watching.

There are green hills and rugged rocky mountain faces surrounding the beach. These are exciting to explore on foot and promise spectacular views. There are sea caves on Lubanzi too, into which you can swim or, if you wait until low tide, walk.

Hole in the Wall is a renowned attraction that is just five kilometres from Lubanzi Beach when walking. Snorkelling here is a treat. A hike from Lubanzi to Hole in the Wall is a fantastic way to experience both places, as well as all the natural splendour in-between. Driving there involves a far longer route of some 21 kilometres. Coffee Bay is only about 30 kilometres from Lubanzi. But, due to the rugged roads, it is about an hour�s drive.