Port Shepstone on the KZN Coast
PORT SHEPSTONE THINGS TO DO, INFORMATION, ACCOMMODATION
It is the largest town of the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast and was founded in 1867 at the Mzimkulu River Mouth as a result of marble deposits found on the banks of the river. It is named after Sir Theophilus Shepstone of the Natal Government of the 1880’s. William Bazley built a harbour, and the first coaster entered the harbour on May 8, 1880. Regular traffic in the exportation of marble, sugar block and lime moved through the port.
Many settlers of different origin boosted the town’s economy and the town combined its agricultural and industrial wealth with its series of safe, sunny beaches.
Port Shepstone is –
- 122 km from Durban
- 18 km from Margate
- 100 km from Amanzimtoti
Not only is Port Shepstone an economic hub, it is also a very popular tourist hub and with more than 9 beaches in the greater Port Shepstone area, it is quite obvious that visitors will flock to this beautiful seaside town.
The unbeatable location, situated around the mouth of the Mzimkulu River right on one of the most unspoiled coastlines in the world, Port Shepstone is blessed with warm weather all year round, hence perfect for a holiday any time of the year.
All the beaches are suitable for swimming, diving, sun tanning, snorkelling and other water activities.
What else to do in Port Shepstone –
- Take a trip with the Banana Express, a journey that takes you from Port Shepstone to Paddock via Oribi Gorge. Enjoy the experience of a ride on a steam train through remarkable landscape.
- Visit the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, a spectacular and scenic reserve with bizarre rock formations, waterfalls, and deep ravines. Enjoy the walking trails, birdwatching and a picnic under the trees. Animals like the oribi, bushbuck, turtles and monkeys still roam the reserve.
- If you love a round of golf, the Port Shepstone Country Club features one of the country’s top rated golf courses. The course is set alongside the Umzimkulu River and the Indian Ocean and offers bowls, squash and cricket and a superb Club House.
- Stop at the Port Shepstone Museum, a charming museum that details the town’s history with a series of exhibits carrying a maritime theme.
- The Port Shepstone Lighthouse is worth a visit. This black and white chequered lighthouse is a prominent landmark on the coast.
- Take the children to one of the sheltered tidal pools to splash about in. The water is warm and provides the perfect environment for swimming or fishing.
Where to eat in Port Shepstone, to name only a few –
- Jaxx Restaurant for excellent food, good service and popular creamy steak pasta;
- The Cellar Boutique Restaurant is known for delicious duck and tapas;
- Fish On The River Restaurant offers a great spot and seafood dishes, pasta and pizza;
- Captains Anchor Restaurant for a meal on the sea;
- Stages Restaurant offers a lovely view and relaxed dining;
- Schooners Seafood Restaurant specializes in seafood but is well known for their succulent steak and eisbein.
Where to stay on Port Shepstone –
With more than 90 places to stay, Port Shepstone offers luxury and budget in villas, beach houses, river chalets, holiday homes, lodges, apartments, guesthouses, cottages and camping.
Put Port Shepstone on your list next time you are looking for an idyllic beach getaway.
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Blog Writer: Ancabe van Zyl (c)
Team: www.want2stay.com
