South Africa boasts 1,600 miles of tropical coastline, meaning travelers looking for a beach vacation in this part of the world are very much spoiled for choice. You'll find huge amounts to explore, from secret golden coves to long stretches of pristine white beaches.
One of the most popular destinations for visitors to South Africa is Cape Town. Although its vibrant, bustling cosmopolitan city is a major draw, Cape Town's vast, rugged coastline with expansive beaches also proves to be a hit with tourists. Many of our luxury tours, such as Epic South Africa and Extraordinary South Africa, include visits to Cape Town and incorporate the wonders of both a safari and a beach vacation.
The Garden Route also offers travelers the chance to explore some of the world's most incredible expanses of coastline, with seemingly endless beaches set alongside lagoons, mountains and forests. Trips to De Hoop Nature Reserve, Hermanus, and Plettenberg Bay will allow you to really immerse yourself in the splendor and natural beauty of South Africa.
If you're keen to discover more about the incredible coast, our travel expert Bjorn Behlert has curated a guide to the best beaches South Africa has to offer.
Beach Vacations in South Africa for Families
Whether you're looking for a relaxing trip spending your days lazing on the beach and watching your children play in the sand and surf or you have your heart set on a more adventurous, action-packed break, we have beach vacations tailored to your family's needs.
One of South Africa's most popular beach vacation destinations for families is Cape Town's Camps Bay. Its beautiful, long stretches of white sand are lined by a promenade dotted with wonderful eateries and bars where you can sit back and relax in the sunshine.
Best South Africa Beach Vacations for Couples
South Africa is a dream destination for couples and newlyweds who want to escape and soak up some quality time together in style. Its breathtaking coastline provides an abundance of opportunities for those looking for a luxury beach resort in South Africa.
Cape Town's Clifton 4th beach, with its golden sand coves and crystal-clear waters, proves to be popular with couples who want to switch off and spend days soaking up the sun before joining locals for al fresco dining at sunset.
If you're looking to experience some of South Africa's culinary delights, look no further than Paternoster. Less than two hours away from Cape Town, this laid-back spot on the coast boasts a bounty of restaurants and local eateries where you can sample some of the finest, freshly caught seafood.
South Africa Beach Vacation Activities
For travelers who are looking to put a more adventurous spin on the traditional beach vacation, there's no end to the exciting things you can do and see on your South Africa trip with us.
Whether it's whale-watching in Hermanus, hiking along the Wild Coast to take in the dramatic views at Coffee Bay, or hitting the waves in the surfer's paradise of Jeffreys Bay, there is something for everyone.
What else can you do in South Africa to accompany your luxury beach vacation?
Beyond your sun-kissed beach vacation, the possibilities for exploration in this magnificent country are truly astounding.
South Africa's many national parks and game reserves such as Kruger and Madikwe mean it's famed for its incomparable luxury safari experiences. With our customized holidays, you can choose to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring natural world.
If you have your heart set on exploring South Africa at a more serene and leisurely pace, we also have an array of carefully curated tours designed for those who wish to sit back, relax and soak up the wonders this country has to offer. One of the highlights of a trip to South Africa is undoubtedly a visit to the Winelands, where you can spend your days sampling the country’s most celebrated wine while absorbing the region's breathtaking scenery. You could also choose to explore South Africa by train, taking a seat in a luxurious carrier and watching the passing vistas unfold before your eyes.
We've meticulously handcrafted guides for some of the most extraordinary tours to inspire you as you plan your once-in-a-lifetime South African adventure.
What luxury South Africa beach vacation accommodation can I choose from?
You'll be truly astounded by the incredible array of luxury hotels in our South Africa beach vacations. From luxurious lodges overlooking forested hills and valleys to mountaintop mansions where you can watch dolphins frolicking in the glistening ocean, there really is something for everyone.
