Luxury Beach Vacations South Africa
Discover South Africa's vast and varied coastline on a personalized luxury beach vacation with Scott Dunn.
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 customized 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 vacations, 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.
The Old Rectory
Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route, South Africa
The Old Rectory is a beautifully restored Cape Dutch House originally built in 1777. With many original features still in place, this boutique hotel offers plenty of character and charm with a modern and contemporary twist.
Morukuru Beach Lodge
De Hoop Nature Reserve, Garden Route, South Africa
Morukuru Beach Lodge is the newest member of the Morukuru family. With only five suites this intimate property is a luxury boutique eco lodge based along the pristine coast line of the De Hoop Nature Reserve, ideal for those on a self drive adventure.
Morukuru Ocean House
De Hoop Nature Reserve, Garden Route, South Africa
Morukuru Ocean House is a four bedroom private house situated in the De Hoop Nature Reserve which is often cited to be one of the most beautiful costal reserves in South Africa. It is the perfect spot for anyone seeking an exclusive and unique vacation.
Oyster Box
Durban, South Africa
Situated on the ocean’s edge, the Oyster Box Hotel has 86 rooms and is conveniently located for quick and easy access to Durban city center, International Airports and numerous stylish shopping centers, yet has maintained a feeling of classical elegance.
Strandloper Ocean Lodge
Paternoster, Western Cape, South Africa
Strandloper Ocean Lodge is hidden away on the shores of the unspoiled fishing village of Paternoster. The 13 exquisite rooms are a fusion of beach style and contemporary luxury and each has its own terrace or private courtyard.
Thonga Beach Lodge
Maputaland Coast, South Africa
Set on the pristine shores of the Maputaland coast, known as the Elephant Coast, Thonga Beach Lodge is the ideal place to discover one of the last unspoiled and undeveloped wilderness beaches left on the African continent.
South Africa Beach Vacation FAQs
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Choosing the right time to go on your South Africa adventure will depend on what you want to get from your trip. We know that a beach vacation is synonymous with soaking up the sunshine, frolicking in the surf, and being able to enjoy lazing on the sand with a good book, and luckily South Africa is known for having pleasant weather all year. During its summer, which is December to February, you can expect temperatures to reach around 86°F. The winter is milder, with temperatures around 68°F from June to August.
Our travel experts will also be able to share their vast knowledge of which destinations will prove to be most popular throughout the year. So, if you're looking for a South Africa beach vacation away from the hustle and bustle of busy crowds, we'll be there to help you make the right decision.
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The only direct commercial flights from the United States to South Africa take off from the East Coast. It takes around 15 hours for them to reach Cape Town or Johannesburg.
You'll likely have to connect in New York, Atlanta, Washington D.C., or a European city if you're flying from Los Angeles or anywhere else on the West Coast. This can take upwards of 20 hours in total.
However, our team of travel specialists can make sure your flight will be perfectly suited to your needs, getting you to South Africa without worry.
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As every vacation you book with us is personalized, the possibilities are endless.
Beyond your beach vacation, you can choose from a wide variety of other excursions and tours in South Africa or head further afield and continue the adventure of a lifetime by building a trip that's perfectly designed around you.
Mozambique, Namibia, the Maldives and even Antarctica are among the many other destinations you could visit.
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As we're focused on creating an experience that's unique and customized to your desires, the cost of a vacation with us will vary. The final price will depend entirely on what you want to do and see on your South Africa beach vacation.
You can contact one of our travel experts to discuss what you're looking for and we'll do everything we can to help. When the planning is finished, we'll give you a full-cost quote so you know exactly how much you'll be paying.
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Knowing where to start planning your trip can seem like a daunting task, but we're on hand to take care of all the preparations for you. We understand what it takes to make a trip unforgettable, and we have a dedicated team of experts who are passionate about doing so.
We want you to feel relaxed from the moment you book with us, leaving all the details for the itinerary in our hands. All you need to do is let us know what you want from your South Africa beach vacation – we'll do the rest.
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Feel free to call us on the number listed below or fill out our inquiry form and take the first step in creating your dream luxury beach vacation to South Africa
Why choose Scott Dunn for South Africa vacation?
Unique to You
- We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are personalized to you.
- We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.
Seamless Service
- Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore for 24/7 seamless service.
- We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.
Carefully Curated Collection
- We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
- Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.
Luxury in Every Sense
- We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
- Awarded Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 12 years in a row.