The 7 best surf spots in South Africa

South Africa is a surfing paradise, as it holds the perfect conditions for every level at any time of the year. There are various surf spots all along the country's coast, some of them legendary and world famous. Recommended is the South African high summer between December and February, which offers pleasant temperatures up to 30 ° Celsius. In the South African winter time between June and August gigantic waves roll in, which attract numerous sportsmen from all over the world.

Surfing is also the best activity to combine travel with sports. A surf trip always takes you to the sea, to great beaches and breathtaking landscapes. At the same time, you always have the opportunity to explore the surroundings and create an unforgettable balance.

Muizenberg

Muizenberg is a suburb south of Cape Town and only 30 minutes away by car. On the cozy beach promenade are many surf stores, surf schools, cozy cafes and a few restaurants. This place is known for the colorful wooden houses "Edwardian Beach Houses", which serve as changing rooms.

The 32 kilometers long beach slopes gently into the sea. The bay runs very wide and the current is quite weak. The bottom is sandy. The waves run continuously and the height of the waves is not extreme at any time. To ensure safety, Bay Watch lifeguards walk up and down the beach. This makes Muizenberg the best and safest beach in the world to learn surfing. Muizenberg has also been named one of the top 20 surf spots in the world by National Georaphics magazine.

Best time: all year round

Level: Beginner

FYI: To prevent shark attacks, so-called "shark spotters" have been installed on the beaches around Cape Town. Flags and information boards always give hints about the sighting of sharks. Around Cape Town live many sharks and as a surfer you are more vulnerable to attacks, because the silhouette of the board resembles a seal. In general, however, sharks are shy creatures and in most cases do not pose an acute danger. However, even though shark attacks are very rare, it makes you feel better to be warned in case of emergency to decimate the risk of an attack.

Big Bay

About 20 minutes by car north of Cape Town, between Bloubergstrand and Melkbosstrand, you will find the Big Baywhich offers a magnificent view of Table Mountain. The surrounding area is similar to Muizenberg, but a little smaller and clearer. This bay is especially popular with beginner surfers, as the beach slopes gently into the water and produces consistent and gentle waves. Since some sections have higher waves when the winds are right, Big Bay is also a valued surf spot among experienced surfers.

Best time: all year round

Level: Beginner-advanced

Long Beach

Long Beach is located west of Cape Town, near the village of Kommetjie. It has eight kilometers of beach, with waves that run both to the right and to the left. This makes this surf spot suitable for both regular and goofy riders. Surfers should have enough experience, because the waves break on uneven reef and can bring unpleasant currents.

Best time: December-February

Level: Advanced-Professional

Durban

Durbanalso called "The Bay of Plenty", is located in the east of South Africa and belongs to the surf mecca of South Africa. Constant waves, steady swells and offshore winds provide wonderful beach, reef and point breaks all year round. In Durban you have many different surf spots to choose from. While some are right outside the city, others require only a short drive. Some of the most popular surf spots include Cave Rock, Ansteys, Brighton Beach, New Pier, North Beach and South Beach. Most beaches have shark nets, which makes Durban the safest place to surf in South Africa.

Best time: All year round! Durban is located on the Indian Ocean, so there is warm water and a warm, humid climate all year round.

Level: Advanced-Professionals

FYI: The Durban rule of thumb is that the further north you go, the more challenging the waves become.

Elands Bay

Elands Bay is located on the west coast of South Africa and is only a three-hour drive north of Cape Town. On the bay lies the idyllic coastal town of Elandsbaai, a small sleepy fishing village. This place is an absolute insider tip because it has been spared despite rapid real estate development, leaving the sea, beach and sand untouched. On a rocky plateau breaks a left point break with rides of up to 200 meters. Due to the rocks, this surf spot is only recommended for experienced surfers.

Best time: December and January

Level: Advanced-Professional

Jeffrey's Bay

The coastal town Jeffrey's Bay lies east of the Garden Route. It has become one of the best surf spots in South Africa and is a popular tourist destination. In addition, Jeffrey's Bay is one of the most famous and best wave in all of Africa. It offers a perfect mix of sand and reef bottom, tubes and open faces, consistency, length and quality. During the South African summer months it attracts surfers from all over the world with its 800 meter long "Super Tubes" and waves up to 3 meters high. At the same time, the WSL (World Surf League) takes place there once a year. But also beginners can get their money's worth at this surf spot with the smaller, but still powerful waves.

Best time: May-September

Level: Beginner-Advanced-Professional

Victoria Bay

Victoria Bay is a small bay directly on the Garden Route between George and Wilderness. It can get very crowded here as it is one of the best surf spots in South Africa. The waves are constant regardless of the tide with a reef and point break. The latter often creates waves that allow exceptionally long rides over distances of 500 meters. Especially for surf beginners this spot is ideal to surf the first green water waves. Nevertheless, beware of the rocks. During the whale season from June to October it is possible to watch whales from the bay, which are only a few meters away from the shore. Dolphins also pay a visit throughout the year.

Best time: May-August

Level: Beginner-Advanced-Professional

FYI: Victoria Bay is "car-free". That is, the car must be parked beforehand and walk up the boardwalk. Don't worry, the walk is less than one kilometer.

You want to experience South Africa live?

In addition to beautiful miles of beaches and waves, South Africa offers an endless array of terrific outdoor activities. Whether hiking, paragliding, whale watching, wine tasting or safari tours. If the South Africa fever has already caught you, then see here our tips for the packing list.

Do you feel like experiencing more of South Africa and besides the enchanting beaches and great surfing adventures, also make animal acquaintances and dive into a safari adventure? Then check out our South Africa round trip and come with us along the Garden Route and experience the Big Five of the animal world!

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