The coastline of Kwa-Zulu Natal sparkles with the epitome of unforgettable adventure that saltwater swimmers and freedivers far and wide come in search of. A mission to explore the underwater coastal sanctuaries that lay in wait is a journey that tends to be synonymous with healing. Find more than you bargained for among the multicoloured mazes and don’t be surprised if you are led to deeper parts of your own heart in the process. Time spent exploring these waters has a way of attuning you to the palpable rhythm of slow living.
Aliwal Shoal: Arguably the most famous diving spot along the South Coast, Aliwal Shoal is a submerged reef located about five kilometers off the coast of Umkomaas. As the crown jewel of the South Coast, this marine protected area, renowned for its diverse marine life, reveals a mesmerising tapestry of life, from graceful reef sharks to elusive moray eels, turtles and vibrant tropical fish. But the true allure lies in the seasonal migration of ragged-tooth sharks, offering divers an exhilarating interaction with these majestic creatures from June to November.
Protea Banks: Venture offshore from Shelly Beach to discover Protea Banks, a realm of primal beauty. Here, a towering underwater pinnacle draws in a mesmerising array of sharks – bull sharks, tiger sharks, and hammerheads, to name a few. Advanced divers are treated to heart-pounding encounters with these apex predators in their natural habitat, making Protea Banks a must-visit for the adventurers hunting for magic moments.
Landers Reef: Approximately six kilometres off Rocky Bay, Landers Reef invites divers of all levels to explore. A riot of colour awaits beneath the surface – vibrant corals, swaying sponges and a kaleidoscope of reef fish. A fossised sand dune, Landers Reef features a lone, massive pinnacle, many large boulders and resultant crevices and massive gullies with smaller sandy patches. Dolphins are a common sight and, if you’re lucky, you may even spot a humpback whale or some game fish, like tuna, in the vicinity. Soft corals include deadman’s finger, thistle and branched black coral; and you should keep an eye out for the big green coral tree – truly a sight unlike any other!
South Pier, Umkomaas: Ideal for shore diving, the South Pier in Umkomaas is a versatile site suitable for divers of all levels. The calm waters and gentle currents create an excellent environment for exploring the diverse marine ecosystem, which includes coral gardens, gorgonian fans and a variety of reef fish. Keep an eye out for sightings of moray eels, stingrays, and nudibranchs hiding among the rocky formations.
Diving Conditions: Expect a subtropical climate, characterised by warm temperatures throughout the year. The water temperatures range from around 19°C in winter to 25°C in summer, making it conducive to diving throughout the year. Visibility can vary depending on weather conditions and seasonal factors, but it often exceeds 20 metres, offering clear views of the underwater landscape. While diving is incredible year-round, the best time to visit the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal for diving is during the dry season, which typically spans from May to September. During this period, the weather is generally mild and underwater visibility tends to be at its peak.