Free rock salmon and other fishing intel by the Master Watermen
Free rock salmon and other fishing intel by the Master Watermen: if you really want to see what is going on under the surface – jump right in and take a look!
Or, you can click on over to the Master Watermen. Our very own local spearfishing website for the KZN coastline…
Where Jason Heyne and his merry band of underwater lurkers will tell you EXACTLY what is going on. The spearos have their finger on every pulse. They know where the warm blue is. They know which way to go. They know the weather systems backwards. Their network is extremely dialled in. Codewords and all.
And.
They know what fish are around.
By checking in with the Master Watermen, all kinds of information can be learned.
Rock Salmon
When the wet season delivers its payload, the saltwater estuary species disappear. Completely. The rivers run so hard that the rock salmon, kingfish and the like, take the free ride out to sea. Perch stay. And many freshwater species come down with the floodwaters. Barbel and eels take over in that orange-brown.
The spearos know all about this. Check these fish…
Rock salmon are not only estuary bound. No ways! In fact, they are open ocean spawners. But they just love estuaries. And so, as soon as the estuaries become salty again, and the mouths are still open, they are going to move back in.
This weekend!
Couta
The spearos start shooting couta in November. Every year. And this year, Justin Campbell and Jonno Gouws took note. And on their skis, each got a couta over 20kgs. On the 27 November!
So the information we can take from this is that we start fishing too late for couta!
Every year.
And as of right now, this moment…well from Vidal to Port Edward, spearos are shooting couta. Time to go catch them!
This was on Digby Smiths boat – this very morning – earlier. Off Port Shepstone on the KZN South Coast.
Smokey Joe!
Snoek
The tastiest fish in the sea are featuring strong in The Bear’s reports on the Master Watermen site. Shoals are being encountered and some good ambushes and sorties feature in this, Jason’s most recent report.
Check the shark pay a visit to Jason’s show, near the end of the clip.
Comments
And it’s not jusy the website and video reports that hold the intel. Check the comments too. Here is a diamond piece of information from down in False Bay. It should give you the shivers, as it did me!
This was found in the Comments section of one of Jason’s recent YouTube videos…a few days back!
From Paleis Heuwel
1 week agoHey you guys better be ready for a possible early sardine run, we are seeing massive schools of em build up around the false bay, sharks, orca and yellow tail all congregating at the moment!
How about that for some fantastically good all round news!
Check out the Master Watermen and Subscribe to the YouTube Channel right here, for FREE!
#InTheSpotlight: 15 things you need to know about the KZN Mid-South Coast
With its Blue Flag Beaches, nature reserves, golf courses, sports’ venues, top-class accommodation, dining and retail options, visitors to the #KZNSouthCoast are spoilt for choice. That’s why Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) has introduced the #InTheSpotlight feature to highlight the different region’s offerings, with this month’s focus on the KZN Mid-South Coast.
“With our many eco-tourism adventures, family-friendly and cost-effective tourism offerings, we’re anticipating a really great Easter holiday season this year,” said CEO of USCT, Phelisa Mangcu. “Our tourism establishments receive constant input on the latest Covid-19 protocols to ensure visitor safety, and we’re fortunate to be able to offer so many open-air activities for a safe and unique experience. Here’s a look at what visitors can expect along the KZN Mid-South Coast.”
1. Port Shepstone the business hub
Located just 120km south of Durban, Port Shepstone has grown to become the administrative, educational, distribution and commercial centre for the KZN South Coast. This seaside town boasts world-class tourism facilities for both the recreational and business tourist, including top accommodation, conferencing and banqueting venues, as well as quality dining options.
2. Affordable accommodation
There is a wide variety of accommodation available along the KZN Mid-South Coast, ranging from high-end resorts and hotels, through to family-friendly bed n breakfasts as well as cost-effective camp sites near the ocean. Whatever your budget or taste, the KZN Mid-South Coast has a space for you.
3. Port Shepstone Country Club
The KZN South Coast is home to 11 quality golf courses, many of which can be found within the Mid-South Coast. A leading example is Port Shepstone Country Club which started as a nine-hole course in 1912 and has grown into an award-winning 18-hole course. The family-friendly club has great food and activities on offer.
4. Port Shepstone Maritime Museum
The KZN South Coast has a rich and interesting maritime history dating back to the early seafarers of the 1500s. Discover the challenges and adventures of these intrepid travellers, as well as the tales of shipwrecks along these shores, by visiting the Port Shepstone Maritime Museum on the Port Shepstone beachfront.
5. Spiller’s Wharf in Port Shepstone
Visitors seeking fun and relaxation along the water’s edge should head to Spiller’s Wharf. This site boasts a range of retail and dining options in the form of bars and restaurants, with the Spiller’s Micro Brewery serving delicious craft beer options. There’s also a selection of art, antiques, jewellery, collectibles, books – and a day spa – at Spiller’s Wharf.
6. Local radio stations
Tune into the KZN mid-South Coast’s best tunes and latest events with Ugu Youth Radio (based in Port Shepstone), and Radio Sunny South (based in Oslo). Relax and enjoy some local flavour with these top-quality broadcasters.
7. Umzimkulu River activities in Port Shepstone
The majestic Umzimkulu River flows through Port Shepstone, and from Spiller’s Wharf, visitors can hire any number of aquatic-based sporting equipment, such as kayaks, to explore the river. There are also wonderful sunset cruises throughout the holiday season.
8. ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest
This beautiful Resort near Harding is located alongside KZN’s second largest indigenous coastal forest which is renowned for its incredible birding. The forest also consists of some the country’s best hiking and mountain biking trails. The seven scenic routes range in length, including 3km, 3.5km, 7.5km, 10km, 15km and loop-out routes. The hotel rents out bikes, and there are many lovely picnic spots along the way.
9. Harding Country Club
Set against the Ingeli Mountain range within a number of dairy and timber farms is the quaint, countryside town of Harding. Here visitors can enjoy a round at the nine-hole golf course (with double tee boxes) which is flanked by trees in this much cooler climate.
10. Dezzi South Coast Raceway in Oslo Beach
Dezzi Raceway is the only Motorsport South Africa (MSA)-approved race track in KZN and stages nationally-televised motorsport events, including drifting and drag racing. Visitors to the KZN mid-South Coast can catch a motorsport race where some of the country’s best drivers try out their skills.
11. Protea Banks in Shelly Beach
Found just 7.5km off Shelly Beach is the Marine Protected Area – Protea Banks. A world-class dive site, Protea Banks consists of a range of caves, ridges and amphitheatres where visitors can ‘Dive the Big 5’ sharks – tigers, Zambezi’s sharks, raggies, hammerheads and blacktips – and a kaleidoscope of sub-tropical fish.
12. Deep sea fishing, diving and surfing in Shelly Beach
This beautiful Marine Protected Area welcomes scuba divers and shark cage divers to its waters annually, with the waters rich with multiple game species such as dorado, marlin and king mackerel. Shelly Beach has a skiboat launch site where tourists can charter boats for deep sea fishing and diving. The cresting waves also make for great surfing in these parts.
13. Shopping centres
In the unlikely event of rainy days – or a simple desire for retail therapy takes hold – the KZN Mid-South Coast has great shopping opportunities. There are numerous stores and dining options at both Shelly Centre and the South Coast Mall, located in Shelly Beach.
14. Restaurants
When hunger strikes, there are lots of great eateries on the KZN mid-South Coast menu. From 5-star dining and award-winning eateries (such as the Cellar in Port Shepstone) to cultural specialties (including Green Chilli Fine Dining restaurant in Shelly Beach and Munchner Haus German restaurant in St Michael’s) through to great takeaway options.
15. Ugu Sports & Leisure Centre in Gamalakhe
Constructed for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, the Ugu Sports & Leisure Centre has provided the perfect space for a number of professional and amateur sports contests. With Level 1 allowing for more sports’ events on the agenda, visitors can get back to enjoying spectator sports such as the recent boxing tournament – ‘KO COVID’.
For more information about USCT, as well as events and activities on the #KZNSouthCoast, download the free ‘Explore KZN South Coast’ app from Google Play and Apple stores or visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za. USCT is also on social media – follow the ‘South Coast Tourism’ Facebook page, or @infosouthcoast on Twitter.
/ENDS
High resolution images are available upon request.
(Images: Supplied by Ugu South Coast Tourism)
?Anew Resort Ingeli Forest.
Port Shepstone.
Umthunzi Hotel & Conference.
Port Shepstone Country Club.
Port Shepstone Museum.
Spiller’s Wharf.
Local Radio Stations.
Umzimkulu River Cruises.
Harding Country Club.
Dezzi Raceway.
World class dive site Protea Banks.
Umzumbe Surf Camp.
South Coast Mall.
Restaurants.
Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre.
About Ugu South Coast Tourism
Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) is the official destination management organisation of the Ugu District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. The Ugu District comprises four local municipalities that include Umdoni, Umzumbe, Umuziwabantu and Ray Nkonyeni. USCT’s mandate is to grow tourism within the KZN South Coast. This involves implementing marketing and development initiatives that are aimed at showcasing the diverse offerings and experiences of the South Coast as tourist destination. A board of directors oversees USCT, headed by CEO, Phelisa Mangcu.
About KZN South Coast
Known as the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom’, the KZN South Coast stretches 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. Here, the spirit of adventure can be discovered among the many cultural experiences, as well as the 35 nature trails and 58 beaches, ideal for activities like river rafting, abseiling, suspension bridges, paintball, surfing, SUP, canoeing, beach horse rides, shark cage diving and free diving. Nicknamed ‘The Golf Coast’, there are 11 golf courses on the KZN South Coast ranging in difficulty, with endless hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails for more rugged excursions. Promoting sustainability, the KZN South Coast has a growing agri-tourism sector that offers world-class produce and hosts tours and excursions. The region boasts a number of permanently managed Blue Flag beaches, and is home to some of the world’s top diving sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. The originality continues with the annual Sardine Run, coined the #GreatestShoalonEarth, which is the largest biomass migration on earth and a marvel to witness. The region’s many nature reserves are inhabited by indigenous bird and wildlife, and it holds the title for ‘smallest desert on earth’, The Red Desert in Port Edward. The KZN South Coast is a fast-emerging MICE destination which also plays host to a number of high-profile events including the The Bike Fest, Uvukile Gospel Festival, Ugu Jazz, Ugu Film Festival and the South Coast Fever MTB & Trail Run Series.
Issued on behalf of:
Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT)
Disseminated by:
Olivia Jones Communications
For more information please contact:
Olivia Jones Communications
Cell: 083 653 1720
Email: media
Olivia Jones Communications
–
Durban , KZN -, South Africa
Take the plunge with a South African-based conservation couple in this epic Freediving Diaries TV seriesWith nothing between them and 15-tonne whale sharks but the blue ocean, South African-based freediving couple, Beth ‘The Mermaid’ Neale and Miles ‘Aquaman’ Cloutier go on an unimaginable underwater journey that lets viewers experience marine life that needs to be protected. Featuring on PPL°WX – People’sWeather (DStv – CH180 and Openview – CH115), from 3 May 2021, the 10-episode Freediving Diaries is the first-ever freediving reality TV series, which follows Beth and Miles’ experiences of freediving with just one breath from the surface, off the coasts of Mozambique and the Maldives.
Beth, a four-time South African freediving champion from the KZN South Coast, explained that one of the series’ goals is to promote the many dedicated people and organisations at the forefront of ocean conservation and eco-tourism: “We also want to show that freediving isn’t just an extreme sport for elite athletes. It’s the fastest-growing water sport and simply requires you to hold your breath underwater. You don’t have to go deep or hold your breath for a long time. We want to inspire people to safely explore the underwater world and understand the incredible need to protect our oceans and the life they hold.”
Miles, who is Canadian-born, describes freediving as ‘your passport to a whole new world’, said: “We enjoy capturing the magic of the underwater world, and our incredible experiences. In the early days of lockdown, we planned an amazing freediving expedition to the unexplored coasts of Mozambique. Some months later, it became a reality, and we have had the opportunity to share this dream with others in the hope that they will be inspired to get out and connect with nature. The impact of lockdown on these local communities has been devastating, and we know this will encourage more eco-tourism.”
Beth and Miles also introduced many people to freediving while on their trip: “Anyone can learn to freedive. We teach beginners and first-timers how to hold their breath for two minutes in a short session. It’s great that anyone can have these experiences.”
Filming of Free Diving Diaries
In partnership with PPL°WX – People’sWeather – Africa’s first and only 24/7 weather, environmental news and lifestyle channel – the series was filmed between late November 2020 and mid-February 2021. Beth and Miles were some of the first to cross the border into Mozambique to begin filming the series when lockdown restrictions eased.
“Just before Christmas, we flew out of South Africa to the Maldives a day or two before travel restrictions were imposed on South Africans,” recalled Neale. “At the end of our trip we were ‘stranded’ in the Maldives for two weeks, but I think in terms of places to get stuck, we could have done a lot worse!”
All of the filming was done by Beth and Miles with freedives up to 20 metres using regular action cameras. “While there is plenty visible light below that level, the colour doesn’t show how alive everything is on camera, so we prefer to capture in shallower waters,” explained Miles.
Beth considers this ‘recreational freediving’ since she holds the South African and African Continental Record for freediving in the ‘no-fins’ discipline, which is breast stroke down and back up, to a depth of 50 metres.
“From the playful and inquisitive wild dolphins of Ponta do Ouro in Mozambique, to the tiger sharks of Fuvahmulah island in the Maldives, we checked a few bucketlist species,” continued Miles. “Fuvahmulah is a world-class dive location and a tiger shark hotspot, and we were some of the first freedivers in the world to visit this site. It is extremely accessible and perfect for freediving. Most importantly, the tiger sharks are protected since it is now a UNESCO world heritage site.”
An action-packed first season
Season one of Freediving Diaries focuses on the couple’s exploration of the Mozambique coastline from Ponto to Ouro to Vilankulous and Bazaruto, and the pristine atolls of the Maldives. And the couple made an exciting discovery – it wasn’t just going to be the two of them on this journey!
“We never expected to be sharing the most special experience that we have had together as a couple in the first episode,” admitted Beth. “Just before crossing the border into Mozambique, we found out that we are having a baby! It was an incredible surprise, but also a shock as we had planned this expedition into some very underdeveloped areas. But it turned out to be the best timing ever because my little mermaid has already dived with whales, dolphins, turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, tiger sharks and nurse sharks all from the comfort of my belly!”
On discovering the new addition, Beth and Miles spent time researching, connecting with professionals who have had experience with freediving and pregnancy: “I was never a freediver who pushed my limits anyway, but now that I am having a baby, I do shallow, short and easy dives. I am very fit, strong and healthy… and so is my baby!”
Miles wasn’t concerned at all: “It was pretty much the best timing ever. I couldn’t have imagined it any better. It was also a huge relief, because we had thought Beth was sick from eating at my favourite sharwama restaurant – so we can keep going back there!”
Despite the motion and morning sickness, Beth was able to enjoy the marine adventures: “From tiny sea horses to the biggest fish in the sea. My life’s dream came true when I had a brief swim with the highly-endangered and elusive dugong in Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique, which brought me to tears. The Dugong is the original mermaid, with its iconic tail.
“We had another unexpected experience during a night dive off of the yacht in Maldives with whale sharks and manta rays. They placed lights off the back of the boat which attract plankton. It’s so surreal to see mantas emerging from the darkness and swooping through the light! The whale shark also stayed, feasting off the back of the boat within a metre of us for hours. It was an out-of-this-world experience.”
Stephan Le Roux, CEO of PPL°WX – People’sWeather, commented on the extraordinary first series, saying: “From the moment I met Beth and Miles and heard about what they do I thought it was completely crazy! Beth has had some unbelievable sports’ accomplishments in freediving, and it’s so amazing the three of them are now sharing these adventures.
“This series epitomises the role weather plays in adding drama and unpredictability to great adventures. The coast is especially susceptible to rapid changes in weather conditions, and the pair embarking on this extraordinary adventure while navigating uncontrollable conditions creates a great viewing experience.”
In addition to all the marine-based action, the series will feature the couple’s interactions with the many inspiring conservationists and guides they meet along the way. Viewers will get to experience the highs and lows of such exotic travel, with Beth and Miles overcoming many challenges, and even discovering their life changing piece of news on the journey!
Catch Freediving Diaries which premieres on PPL°WX – People’sWeather (DStv CH-180 and Openview CH-115) from Monday, 3 May at 18:00. The series will be shown over two weeks with new episodes daily from Mondays to Fridays at 18:00, with a repeat at 10:30 and 14:00 the following day. There will also be an omnibus shown on the weekend.
Follow Beth @onebreathbeth and Miles’ journey on Instagram at @freedivingcouple or @aqua.souls to start your own freediving journey.
/ENDS
High resolution images are available upon request.
South African-based freediving couple, Beth ‘The Mermaid’ Neale and Miles ‘Aquaman’ Cloutier.
(Image credit: Don Hunter)
Beth ‘The Mermaid’ Neale, a four-time South African freediving champion from the KZN South Coast.
(Image credit: Don Hunter)
South African-based freediving couple, Beth ‘The Mermaid’ Neale and Miles ‘Aquaman’ Cloutier.
(Image credit: Bryan Hart)
South African-based freediving couple, Beth ‘The Mermaid’ Neale and Miles ‘Aquaman’ Cloutier.
(Image credit: @onebreathbeth)
South African-based freediving couple, Beth ‘The Mermaid’ Neale and Miles ‘Aquaman’ Cloutier.
(Image credit: @onebreathbeth)
NOTES FOR EDITORS
PPL°WX – People’sWeather
PPL°WX – People’sWeather has repositioned from a weather service channel to Africa’s first and only 24/7 weather, environmental news and lifestyle channel; striving to make Africa’s nature more inclusive for all; focusing on our affinity and connectedness with the environment to tell impactful stories with insightful narratives; and using weather, which connects us all, as the conversation starter. Available on (DStv CH-180 and Openview CH-115), viewers can look forward to a wide range of programming that focuses on nature and the outdoors, food, travel and eco-tourism, farming and agriculture, science and sustainability, as well as Live – a new take on eco-sport. The world consumes so much of Africa’s nature and wildlife with most Africans unable to see the content produced locally. PPL°WX – People’sWeather opens up this opportunity to expose and educate a broader audience to the role weather plays in our day to day lives and how through the stories the channel shares it connects communities and people to the environment. We truly believe that the more we have access to our own stories or experiences around wildlife, nature and conservation, the better informed and equipped we become to protect our rich natural heritage as South Africans. As a channel, we are fundamentally aligned with where conservation is in Africa, and the vision for its future. PPL°WX – People’sWeather appeals to cross-cultural and cross-generational audience; a viewer who enjoys engaging, entertaining, credible, informative and purposeful content and stories; the eco-conscious and progressive individual who aspires to live sustainably, nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, ethical travellers, farmers and hobbyists, scientists and institutions, environmentalists and eco-savvy humans. People living the Weather!
About Beth Neale
Beth Neale is 4x South African National Free Diving Champion and African Continental Record Holder, Ocean Conservationist and Filmmaker. In September 2019 she broke another record with a no-fins free dive to 50M/164ft raising over $20,000 for the Bermuda Zoological Society’s ocean education programs for children. Beth has dedicated the last six years to ocean conservation initiatives in South Africa, Mozambique and Bermuda. As a Master Instructor, she has taught hundreds of adults freediving, and over 3 000 children ocean conservation and free diving. Beth founded her company Aqua Souls – with the goal of sharing the transformational power of her greatest passion. She also uses unique videos to entice people with the beauty of our underwater world, leading them to take the plunge for themselves! Her videos have been viewed over 50 million times on Instagram since the start of 2019. Follow the highlights of her journey on Instagram @onebreathbeth.
Issued on behalf of: PPLWX – People’sWeather
Disseminated by:
Olivia Jones Communications
For more information please contact:
Olivia Jones Communications
Cell: 083 653 1720
Email: media
Olivia Jones Communications
19 Norfolk Road Berea
Durban, KZN 4001, South Africa
“Another fun roundup of things to do down on the KZN lower south coast, by OJ and her team at OJ Communications.” – Xona
In the mood for adventure? The KZN Lower South Coast has 10 unmissable opportunities!
South Africans have welcomed the President’s latest announcement that, with the infection numbers in decline, the national lockdown level has dropped from Level 3 to Level 1, allowing for more freedom of movement to places like the #KZNSouthCoast. To give visitors a taste of the many family-friendly eco-tourism options available, Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) has launched the innovative #InTheSpotlight feature with this month’s focus turning to the KZN Lower South Coast, extending from Hibberdene to Port Edward and inland to Harding.
“While we look forward to the many opportunities afforded us with the easing of lockdown restrictions, the KZN South Coast tourism establishments are always briefed on the latest Covid-19 health protocols because visitor safety is priority,” explained CEO of USCT, Phelisa Mangcu. “We’re fortunate that, with our warmer weather and many nature-based activities, there are many open-air activities to enjoy that are fun, safe and completely unique!”
Here’s a look at what’s on offer at the Lower South Coast!
1. Farm adventures
The warm climate and fertile land make #KZNSouthCoast a prime farming destination, with many of the Lower South Coast farms inviting visitors for fun excursions and tastings! Families can enjoy a really memorable day out while learning a bit about the local agricultural offerings.
· Beaver Creek Coffee Estate (Port Edward) has an on-site café and incredible mountain biking tracks: Contact 039 311 2315/47 or info or www.beavercreek.co.za.
· Riverbend Crocodile Farm (Southbroom) includes animal farm, gifts and crafts: Contact 083 265 9583 or 039 316 6204 or info or h.kelly or www.crocodilecrazy.co.za.
· MacBanana Estate & Adventures (Munster and Glenmore) includes a farm stall, banana tours, quad bikes, zipline, paintball, mini golf, obstacle challenge, archery, rope adventure park and restaurants: Contact 039 319 1033 or gloria.duggan or www.macbanana.mobi.
· B’s Guesthouse (Harding) has an animal farm and on-site fishing: Contact 076 650 4587 or bgh.
· Mount Nebo Arena (Harding) is located on a farm and hosts all manner of events from social functions to business conferences: Contact 076 269 2760 or sithabilenzama.
· Pure Venom Snake & Reptile farm (Izotsha) is the biggest reptile farm in Africa: Contact info.
· BBS Farm (Southport) provides tours of the macadamia nut and tomato plantation grown by local community: Contact 079 568 1815 or bbsfarms33
· Nyamazane Game Ranch (Izingolweni) Game Farm and Accommodation: Contact 072 506 7694 or jjventer or www.nyamazanegameranch.co.za.
2. Whale watching
The #KZNSouthCoast has many locations to view the annual migration of the incredible humpback and southern right whales between May and September. Whale watchers on the Lower South Coast can also enjoy the delightful antics of resident common and bottlenose dolphins, as well as the annual Sardine Run during the winter months.
· Ramsgate Whale Deck: Contact 039 682 7944.
· Umtentweni Whale Deck
3. Horse riding
For those looking to experience the Lower South Coast on horseback, there are some incredible local trails that cut across farmlands, coastal forests and sandy beaches. Enjoy a guided tour while getting to grips with the region, suited to everyone from beginners to equestrian professionals!
The thriving coastline of the Lower South Coast is renowned for its active fishing spots, from the warm Indian Ocean through to piers, dams and rivers. There are also many fishing charters that take anglers out to sea where they can catch various game species, including yellowfin tuna, amberjack, king mackerel (couta), dorado, skipjack, sailfish, marlin, wahoo, sardasarda, bonito, yellowtail and green jobfish.
· Margate Fishing Pier: Contact 039 682 7944.
· Uvongo Fishing Pier: Contact 039 682 7944.
5. Museum and crafts
The Lower KZN South Coast’s cultural history and traditions can be found in a number of museums dotted throughout the region, and viewed through the range of local arts and crafts created here.
· Munster Motor Museum is a classic car museum with a motoring history dating back to 1923: Contact 039 319 2364 or rod or www.classiccarsmotorcycles.co.za.
· Margate Art Museum: Contact 039 312 8392.
· Pistols Saloon and Wild West Museum which has lots of activities for the kids and has regular music shows: Contact pweber or sheriff.
· S’Khumba Crafts: Contact 039 3168 393 or info.
· Ndovie’s Creations focusing on traditional outfits: Contact 078 070 3250 or ndoviescreations
· Inqubele Holdings focusing on beaded crafts: Contact 079 3011 870 or julietvuyelwa.phillip
6. Shipwrecks and maritime history
The Lower South Coast and its treacherous coastline boasts a wealth of maritime history dating back to the 1500s. Learn more about adventures on the high seas and the fates of intrepid travellers to this beautiful region.
· Port Shepstone Maritime Museum
· Sao Joao Portuguese Monument (Port Edward) erected in commemoration of those who died during the 1552 Sao Joao shipwreck, off the coast of Port Edward.
7. Great dining
The Lower South Coast is home to a number of enticing eateries, from seaside cafes through to fine-dining establishments which give visitors a real taste of the local specialties.
· The Waffle House (Ramsgate) is an iconic eatery which has been serving wholesome Belgian waffles since 1991: Contact 039 314 9424 or pauline or manager or www.wafflehouse.co.za.
· Leopard Rock Coffee Shop & Lookout Chalets (Oribi Gorge): Contact leopardrockc or www.leopardrockc.co.za.
8. Birding watching
With its many nature reserves and dramatic landscape, the Lower South Coast is one of the country’s best hiking and birding destinations. There are a number of natural birding habitats, including coastal and wetland environments, forests, woodland and grassland, all home to unique birdlife.
· Mpenjati Nature Reserve (Trafalgar) includes birding, hiking, picnic spots and braai facilities. Contact 039 313 0531 or ChristianNjabulo.Mavundla or mavundlac or www.kznwildlife.com.
· River Valley Nature Reserve (Margate) includes camping, birding, hiking and fishing with picnic spots available: Contact info or rivervalfarm or www.rivervalleynaturereserve.co.za.
9. Hiking, biking and 4×4 adventures
For those who enjoy combining fitness, fun and adventure, the Lower South Coast has all the best spots! Take the opportunity to experience the diverse landscape and natural wildlife along one of the many exciting hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails, all of which are carefully managed.
· KwaNzimakwe Experience includes a cultural excursion with multiple hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails. Contact 063 072 1873 or victor.jaca.
The beautiful Lower South Coast is home to some of the most incredible natural sites which are rich with both cultural history and indigenous flora and fauna – both on land and in the sea! Local establishments have organised interesting and exciting ways to experience this natural beauty.
· Port Edward Red Desert which, at only 11 hectares, is the world’s smallest desert and an internationally-protected heritage site with several archaeological artefacts.: Contact 039 695 0460 or 083 631 9331 or reddesertnr.
· KwaXolo Caves Adventures allow visitors to access these ancient caves, home to ancient San rock paintings: Contact 063 844 2032 or makhanyashaun.
· Lake Eland Game Reserve (Oribi Gorge) offers moderate-to-extreme adventures in the form of ziplines, an 80m suspension bridge, scooter tours, 4×4 track, paintball, horse riding, fishing, mountain biking, hiking and game viewing: Contact reservations or www.lakeeland.co.za.
· Oribi Gorge Wild 5 Extreme Adventures includes the Wild Swing, abseiling, a suspension bridge, white water rafting and paintball: Contact info or www.wild5adventures.co.za.
· Protea Banks (Shelly Beach) is a Marine-Protected Area and world-class dive site: Contact 039 682 7944.
For more information about USCT, as well as events and activities on the #KZNSouthCoast, download the free ‘Explore KZN South Coast’ app from Google Play and Apple stores or visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za. USCT is also on social media – follow the ‘South Coast Tourism’ Facebook page, or @infosouthcoast on Twitter.
BBS Farm.
Ramsgate Whale Deck.
KZN Lower South Coast activities by OJ Communications
Selsdon Park Estate Horse Riding.
Margate Pier.
Munster Motor Museum.
Sao Jao Shipwreck Monument.
Leopard Rock.
Oribi Gorge Vulture Hide.
Burry Stander Bike Park.
KwaXolo Caves Adventures.
About Ugu South Coast Tourism
Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) is the official destination management organisation of the Ugu District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. The Ugu District comprises four local municipalities that include Umdoni, Umzumbe, Umuziwabantu and Ray Nkonyeni. USCT’s mandate is to grow tourism within the KZN South Coast. This involves implementing marketing and development initiatives that are aimed at showcasing the diverse offerings and experiences of the South Coast as tourist destination. A board of directors oversees USCT, headed by CEO, Phelisa Mangcu.
About KZN South Coast
Known as the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom’, the KZN South Coast stretches 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. Here, the spirit of adventure can be discovered among the many cultural experiences, as well as the 35 nature trails and 58 beaches, ideal for activities like river rafting, abseiling, suspension bridges, paintball, surfing, SUP, canoeing, beach horse rides, shark cage diving and free diving. Nicknamed ‘The Golf Coast’, there are 11 golf courses on the KZN South Coast ranging in difficulty, with endless hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails for more rugged excursions. Promoting sustainability, the KZN South Coast has a growing agri-tourism sector that offers world-class produce and hosts tours and excursions. The region boasts a number of permanently managed Blue Flag beaches, and is home to some of the world’s top diving sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. The originality continues with the annual Sardine Run, coined the #GreatestShoalonEarth, which is the largest biomass migration on earth and a marvel to witness. The region’s many nature reserves are inhabited by indigenous bird and wildlife, and it holds the title for ‘smallest desert on earth’, The Red Desert in Port Edward. The KZN South Coast is a fast-emerging MICE destination which also plays host to a number of high-profile events including the The Bike Fest, Uvukile Gospel Festival, Ugu Jazz, Ugu Film Festival and the South Coast Fever MTB & Trail Run Series.
Issued on behalf of:Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT)
Disseminated by:
Olivia Jones Communications
For more information please contact:
Olivia Jones Communications
Cell: 083 653 1720
Email: media
by
Olivia Jones Communications
19 Norfolk Road Berea
Durban, KZN 4001, South Africa
We are on YouTube right HERE, please dont forget to subscribe!
Well that was an amazing insert – eight segments long and a featured guest in the form of Clinton Strandloper.
“The Ides of March surf report by Brucifire”
A couple of swells featuring at 3 Palm Point. This must be some new break or what not? I’ve never heard of it before? Maybe some new secret spot? Like that Noorsekloof Point place that looks just like StupidTubes! Ha ha whats the point? There were quite a few swells rolling through this March 2021, down south. And this report -the Ides of March 2021 version, features head high stupidtubes on a few occasions.
But the main attraction is certainly Clinton Strandloper. As he presents and epitomises the Legend of the Strandloper. This guy is the Real Deal!
From Bruce…
CLINTON STRANDLOPER IS A MAN OF MANY PARTS….HERBALIST…STORYTELLER…SOCIAL ACTIVIST OF SORTS AND WALKER…HE HAS WALKED CAPE TOWN TO P.E. EVERY YEAR FOR PAST 29 YEARS AND BEEN INVOLVED WITH ANNUAL TELEVISED GATHERINGS AND WALKS IN CAPE TOWN OVER THE LAST SEVEN YEARS. UBUNTU SEEMS TO BE HIS MAIN THEME AND HEALING. WONDERFUL POWERFUL MAN OF GREAT KNOWLEDGE.
Well ok, Bruce, Jeffrey and crew in the office at J-bay SurfView, thank you for the Ides of March 2021 Surf Report by Brucifire. An amazing 8 segment episode by The Sardine News and the Brucifire surfing report featuring none other than Clinton Strandloper and 3 Palm Point.
YouTubing
You’re gonna see a lot more YouTube from us since I the producer Sean Lange, has injured both his arms. And typing is a mission in a cast. This insert was written in speech recognition software on a dictation.io, an altogether quite pleasant experience. And a method that I might adopt far more often in the future. Please don’t forget to like and subscribe. Soon we gonna have some Brucifire merch available. And a whole new website is coming up! In the meantime, you can catch us on thesardine.co.za anytime!
We are on YouTube right HERE, please dont forget to subscribe!
?Anew Resort Ingeli Forest.
