Uvongo Beach
Uvongo Beach is unique in that it has a 23 meter high waterfall that plunges into one of the deepest lagoons in the country. When on the beach you get the impression of being on a sheltered secluded beach because of the rocky escarpment behind it, covered with lush tropical plants, that forms a green protective wall.
The contrast between the beauty of this seemingly unspoiled beach and the high rise buildings behind it is striking, proving that civilization and nature can live side by side and thrive.
Uvongo Beach is very popular because of what is on offer:
- 23m waterfall
- deep lagoon
- rock pools
- safe beach and amenities
- swimming, surfing, body boarding
- inviting kids pool
- restaurant and shops
- gorgeous tidal pool
- a pier offering amazing views
Hire a pedal boat to explore the lagoon and pedal right up to the waterfall. Next to the river that flows into the sea is a footpath that leads past the waterfall to the Uvongo River Nature Reserve known for its tropical forest that borders the river. It is a great find for bird watchers who might glimpse several of the rarer coastal birds.
Warning: Please don’t swim in the lagoon. Even exposing an open sore or a cut by dipping feet or hands into the water can be risky. The lagoon is often polluted from upstream and several visitors have reporting getting ill after exposure to the water. Swimming in the sea is perfectly save.
The beach has shark nets and is watched over by capable lifeguards. Swimming in the waves rolling in is exhilarating and there are plenty of opportunity for surfing and body boarding.
Lilliecrona Boulevard (next to the beach) is perfect for taking longs walks, a jog or cycling as it allows for breathtaking views of the ocean. A quick dip in the tidal pool or a long cool drink in the local restaurant afterwards will remind you that a beach holiday is the stuff dreams are made of.
The pier to the side of the beach is a ‘must visit’ for the views and is also a firm favorite for fishermen.
Uvongo is named after the iVungu River. In the Zulu language it refers to the sound the wind makes as it moves through the rocky gorges.
Have a look at some of the sights:
Uvongo Kiddies Swimming Pool
There is a inviting shallow pool next to the beach for kiddies to have fun in. The area is fenced in but it is still a good idea for adults to hang around to keep an eye on their little ones in case the gate is accidentally left open. Please note that the pool is not supervised.
On the side of the pool are a line of trees that offers some shade and a lawn area where you can spread out a blanket and catch a tan while being near the sparkling pool.
Don’t forget sun protection!
Uvongo Beach Tidal Pool
The tidal pool, that is next to the parking area, is simply gorgeous. On the day we visited we ended up sitting on the side of the pool with our feet dipped in the water for way too long. The views from there are spectacular and the water was a perfect body temperature. Relaxation at its best.
The sloping walkway allows for easy wheelchair access into the pool and the big steps to the side offer perfect seating if you just want to sit there and take in the waves rolling in.
Parking and Access
There is a parking area on the south side of the beach that has a sloping walkway taking you past the tidal pool, restaurant and kiddies pool ending at the flight of steps leading down to the beach.
There is also a bigger parking area on the west side of the beach, where the Uvongo Pier is, that offers spectacular views over the ocean. This is a great spot if you feel like staying in your car to enjoy the gorgeous views or if you feel like venturing out to the pier.
Where is the Uvongo Beach?
GPS: 30.83455, 30.39612
It is very easy to reach the beach as it is a short drive of just over two and a half blocks from the R620. Use the map below to find your way there or to find the parking area on the Uvongo Pier side to reach the beach from the west.
