South Africa’s coastline is home to many celebrated beach destinations — but tucked between the better-known names are lesser-visited spots offering seclusion and scenery, at a slower pace. These five hidden beach towns promise peaceful, natural wonder.
1. Kosi Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
Kosi Bay lies near South Africa’s northeastern edge, bordering Mozambique and forming part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is characterised by a system of interconnected lakes, coastal forests, estuaries, and dune-lined beaches. Traditional fish traps used by the local Thonga people have been in place for generations, giving the area both cultural and ecological significance.
Snorkelling in the estuary reveals colourful marine life in calm, protected waters. Nearby, turtles nest on the beaches between November and February. With limited infrastructure and controlled access to the nature reserve, Kosi Bay remains one of the country’s most pristine and peaceful coastal destinations.
ALSO READ: Into the Wild (Lubanzi): The Wild Coast’s whimsical backpackers
Mdumbi, Eastern Cape – Picture/Oliver Keohane
2. Mdumbi, Eastern Cape
Located south of Coffee Bay along the Wild Coast, Mdumbi is one of the most remote and visually striking coastal locations in South Africa. The long, uncrowded beach, emerald headlands, and estuary-fed river system create a scenic and peaceful setting far removed from urban life.
What sets Mdumbi apart is its strong commitment to community-based tourism. Mdumbi Backpackers is majority community-owned, with many locals directly benefiting from tourism revenue. Visitors can surf, paddle up the Mdumbi River, hike to nearby cliffs, or simply enjoy the slow rhythms of coastal life in one of the country’s least-developed seaside areas.
Elands Bay Cave – Picture/Museum Explorer SA
3. Elands Bay, Western Cape
Elands Bay (or Elandsbaai) is a West Coast fishing village best known for two things: its left-breaking surf point and the ancient rock art found in nearby Baboon Point caves. Located about 220 kilometres from Cape Town, the town attracts surfers and nature lovers seeking solitude and scenic beauty.
Beyond the waves, the town is also home to a Ramsar-listed wetland that hosts migratory birds and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. The village has resisted large-scale development, and its gravel roads, weathered homes, and working harbour lend it a timeless character. Elands Bay is ideal for a weekend retreat that prioritises nature, history and wave-chasing over resort-style comfort.
ALSO READ: 5 exquisite pink beaches around the world
The first glimpse of Nature’s Valley beach – Picture/Chris Davies
4. Nature’s Valley, Western Cape
Situated within the Tsitsikamma section of the Garden Route National Park, Nature’s Valley is a forested haven at the mouth of the Groot River. While technically part of the Garden Route, it remains far quieter than neighbouring Plettenberg Bay or Knysna, thanks in part to its isolation and limited development.
The village is entirely surrounded by national park, and there are no commercial hubs or beachfront restaurants — just houses, hiking trails and a broad, often empty beach backed by indigenous forest. It’s also the final stop on the famed Otter Trail. Nature’s Valley appeals to those intent on activity, while fully immersed in nature, offering plenty of opportunities for birding, hiking, canoeing, and beach wandering.
5. Mbotyi, Eastern Cape
Mbotyi is a small coastal settlement on the Wild Coast, about 25 kilometres from Lusikisiki. Surrounded by subtropical vegetation, rivers, and waterfalls, the village sits at the mouth of the Mbotyi River and opens out onto a wide, quiet beach.
Visitors can explore natural landmarks like Magwa Falls and Waterfall Bluff, both accessible by guided hikes. The surrounding landscape is home to rural Xhosa communities. Mbotyi Lodge remains the central accommodation hub, but outside of it, the area remains raw and untouched. It’s ideal for eco-travellers and hikers looking for both beach and forest access.
Waterfall Bluff – Picture/Getaway Gallery
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ: 6 charming small towns worth exploring on the Garden Route
