Leisure Bay

Leisure Bay is a photogenic and peaceful seaside town situated on the lower South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It borders Port Edward and lies just north of the Eastern Cape border, enveloped by dense, lush coastal forests that give the area a distinctly tropical and secluded feel. The coastline here is incredibly beautiful, boasting several protected coves and pristine stretches of sand. One of its standout coastal gems is Ivy Beach, a pristine and quiet beach great for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Shark nets and seasonal lifeguards often make these waters exceptionally safe for swimming. Unlike heavily commercialized resort towns, Leisure Bay has retained a quiet, natural charm. Local dining often means visiting nearby Port Edward or the famous Mac Banana estate, where travelers can enjoy fresh, locally sourced food, including tropical fruits and excellent seafood. Easily accessible via the R61 coastal route from Durban, the area is a haven for surfers, nature lovers, and those wanting to witness the famous annual Sardine Run during the winter months.

Nearby cities

Durban

The third largest city is located on the Indian Ocean and has South Africa's busiest cargo port.

Pietermaritzburg

The capital of KwaZulu-Natal is distinguished by its Victorian architecture and historical significance.

Newcastle

The third-largest city in KwaZulu-Natal is a major industrial center, historically known for coal mining.

Richards Bay

A port city on the north coast that operates the country's largest coal export terminal.

Ladysmith

Located on the banks of the Klip River, the town is best known for the long siege during the Boer War.

Port Shepstone

The largest town on the southern coast of KwaZulu-Natal serves as the gateway to the tourist 'Hibiscus Coast'.

Ramsgate

A charming coastal village on the South Coast, known for its tranquil atmosphere, excellent dining, and whale watching.

Margate

The vibrant heart of the Hibiscus Coast, famous for its Blue Flag beaches and lively nightlife.

Empangeni

A hilly town located not far from Richards Bay, traditionally a center for sugarcane and timber.

Howick

Famous for the spectacular Howick Falls and as the place where Nelson Mandela was captured in 1962.

Ulundi

Once the capital of the Zulu Kingdom and later of the KwaZulu bantustan, rich in cultural heritage.

Ballito

The heart of the Dolphin Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, tidal pools, and annual surfing competitions.

Salt Rock

A popular holiday destination on the Dolphin Coast with excellent surf spots and natural tidal pools.

Scottburgh

A charming coastal resort on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, famous for its safe swimming beaches and proximity to Aliwal Shoal.

Umkomaas

Umkomaas is a vibrant coastal town in KwaZulu-Natal, renowned worldwide for its spectacular scuba diving and beautiful beaches.

History & landmarks

Shakaland

A living museum and cultural village that authentically showcases the traditions and history of the Zulu people.

More places

Nelson Mandela Capture Site

This memorial marks the exact spot where Nelson Mandela was arrested by the apartheid police in 1962.

Rorke's Drift

Rorke's Drift was the site of a famous defense in 1879, where a small British garrison repelled a massive Zulu attack.

Isandlwana Battlefield

The Isandlwana Battlefield was the site of the first major encounter in the Anglo-Zulu War, where the British army suffered a decisive de…

Blood River Heritage Site

The Blood River heritage site commemorates the historic 1838 battle between the Voortrekkers and the Zulu Kingdom.

Majuba Hill

Majuba Hill was the site of the final and decisive battle of the First Boer War in 1881, resulting in a Boer victory.

Spion Kop Battlefield

Spion Kop was the site of a bloody battle during the Second Boer War in 1900, where British troops vainly attempted to relieve the besieg…