Take a break from all the beach bunnies and busy parking lots, and escape to somewhere a little more secluded. Love the beach but not keen on crowds? We’ve put together a list of some of the best secret beaches where you can spread your towel, kick back and soak up the sunshine in peace. Whisk your special someone away for a romantic stroll along the coastline. Laze the day away with only the sound of the waves and seagulls as your backtrack. Then share an intimate picnic as the sun sets on the horizon. Whether you’re looking for a special day out or a romantic weekend away, these super secluded spots should definitely be on your to-do list.
West Coast National Park Take a scenic drive through the West Coast National Park to get to the hidden beach of Preekstoel. While the rest of the area tends to be quite windy and wild, this peaceful little beach is perfectly sheltered and has waist-high water ideal for dabbling your toes. There’s even a rusty old shipwreck to explore if you’re feeling adventurous.
Nearby hotels:
Protea Hotel Saldanha
Knysna This one’s for the true romantics. Think dreamy castles, quaint cottages and quiet coves perfect for a romantic tryst. Even getting there feels like following a secret map to a treasure trove. Take the dirt road at Nekkies down towards the coast until you see a sign marked ‘beach’. Wander down 150 steep steps and emerge onto what is quite easily the most pristine beach in SA.
Garden Route Hotels:
Protea Hotel Knysna Quays
Table Mountain National Park Tucked away within the enchanting Cape Point Nature Reserve, this secluded beach can only be reached on foot down a quiet pathway. Dramatic cliffs, wild water and an atmospheric ocean mist set the mood for a dreamy day at the beach. Grab your stuff and stroll a little further afield for a close-up encounter with the local seal colony.
Protea Hotels near Cape Point:
Protea Hotel Mowbray
Bakoven, Cape Town Tucked away between the ever-popular Camps Bay and Llandudno beaches, Bakoven is the perfect spot for a romantic rendezvous. Catch a tan on the tiny strip of white sand, take in the breathtaking view of Lion’s Head, and toast the sunset as the cold Atlantic Ocean laps the shore.
Atlantic Seaboard Hotels:
Protea Hotel Sea Point
Protea Hotel Cape Castle
Protea Hotel Victoria Junction Waterfront
Elephant Coast, Durban Feeling adventurous? Hop in your 4×4 and tackle the 45-minute drive to Kosi Bay. This untamed beach is nestled right near the Mozambique border and is teeming with lush vegetation and marine life. Spot dolphins, whales and turtles. Snorkel in the warm Indian Ocean. Wander along the lofty sand dunes. Or just chill out on the sun-dappled beach.
Kwa-Zulu Natal North Coast Hotels:
Protea Hotel Umfolozi River
Protea Hotel Waterfront Richards Bay
Cape Town This picturesque little cove is hidden away in Table Mountain National Park nearby the busy beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay. With a small braai area on the side, sprawling boulders and stunning views, it’s most certainly one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets.
Cape Town Hotels:
Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Cape Town
