An amazing destination with the legendary waves of J-Bay, wildlife parks to explore, culture and traditions older than time to experience. The 3000kms of coastline at the bottom of the African continent boast beautiful beaches and bays of consistent waves from Durban to Cape Town. The locals are friendly, the food great and you can surf quality waves over reefs, points and beach breaks almost all year around.

Quick Facts

Home to the famous wave of Jeffreys Bay aka J-Bay

Low cost of living and plenty of activities outside of the surf

Surfing is best when the Roaring Forties provide the best swells from March to September

The safari parks, with Kruger perhaps the best, are worth the flight on its own

Where to surf

Jeffrey’s Bay (J-Bay) is worth the trip alone! Easily South Africa’s most famous wave and said to be one of the best righthanders on the planet. It works best in July and August when there are usually back-to-back swells with a good period to help join up the sections at the east-facing spot of J-Bay. Jeffrey’s Bay is world-renowned for its different surf breaks such as, Kitchen Windows, Magna Tubes, Boneyards, Super Tubes, Salad Bowls, Tubes, Points & Albatross, each possessing its own magic.

When to go

The seasons are the well defined southern hemisphere seasons of summer (December until February), autumn (March until May), winter (June until August) and spring (September - November). Surfing is best done when the Roaring Forties provide the best swells from March to September. Waves usually range 6-15ft, but you will come across much bigger waves in certain spots. In summer the swell tends to be a bit smaller with some fun waves to surf at the many beach breaks. The exception is the Durban area, where the waves generated from the hurricane swells from December until February can turn the sand bottom pointbreaks into grinding tubes. The east coast is in a subtropical climate area and wraps around the Western Cape up the Garden Route towards Port Elizabeth. This area is usually hot and sunny during the summer months and mild and wet during winter.

Attractions

South Africa is an expansive and diverse country, so be sure to explore inland from the coastline. There are mountains to be climbed via epic switch-backing roads, and gorgeous rivers that cut through rugged landscapes. Indulge in the fantastic cuisine, and don’t miss out on Cape Town, with its colonial architecture and endless opportunities for discovery. The safari parks, with Kruger perhaps the best, are worth the flight on its own.

The Country

Officially the Republic of South Africa, this nation lies at the tip of the continent of Africa. Because of its location, South Africa has always held a place of importance in the global community. In the 1400’s sailing around the Cape of Good Hope from Europe to Asia was an incredible feat and a pass to the “New World.” South Africa has a troubled past, most recently under the Apartheid regime, but the nation has made huge leaps and bounds with the help of the former president, Nelson Mandela. The country’s struggle with apartheid has brought everyone in the nation closer together, as a rule, though tensions can still run high.

Getting There

Most travellers enter the country via Cape Town International Airport (CPT). Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg (JNB) is also a major international hub and the only direct flight option from Sydney, Australia.

Travel Information

Time Zone

UTC+02:00

 

Currency

ZAR

Calling code

+27

Electric

230V – Plug type: C, D, M, N