Umtentweni

Umtentweni is a lazy seaside village. On most days, the only people you'll be likely to encounter on 'Tweni' beach are the locals walking their dogs and rock fishermen waiting for a bite. The beach has a tidal pool called 'Granny's Pool'. Lifeguards man the beach during the weekends and holidays.

Activities and sightseeing in the area

The Sardine Run

It's a mystery why millions of these small shimmering fish migrate north from the Cape waters along the east coast, but it's an amazing spectacle. The shoals are preyed upon on all sides - cape gannets dive bomb the water from above, bottle-nosed dolphins and sharks herd the shoals into bait balls the netters haul the fish in the thousands. The sardines run between May and June.

Surfing

There are several world-class surfing spots along the R102 that runs along the coast from Hibberdene to Port Shepstone. Umzumbe, Banana Beach and Sunwich Port are popular spots within a short distance of each other. Surfing conditions are better in the winter. The water is generally uncrowded and is protected by shark nets.

Oribi Gorge

Travellers looking for a break can make the short drive inland to the Oribi Gorge. There are several viewpoints from which to enjoy the views across the gorge. Eagle's Nest in the Lake Eland Game Reserve has a suspension bridge across the ravine in the Indiana Jones style, only much less rickety. There are hiking trails both at the top of the gorge and inside the 'little gorge' along the Umzimkulu River. There is also horse riding, abseiling, a zipline slide and river rafing in summer.

The world's highest gorge swing

Oribi gorge boasts the world's highest gorge swing; a 77m freefall followed by a 100m swing. You're then then slowly winched up. You're not strapped in by your feet, so there's no hanging upside down, instead you can relax and enjoy the view.

Diving

Protea Banks is a renowned shark-diving sites Divers can spot ragged-tooths, hammerheads, zambezis and even great whites sometimes make an appearance. Diving operators in the area do not offer cage diving, so be prepared to come face to face with sharks without bars in the way.

Dolphin and whale watching

Humpback whales are regular visitors to the east coast in winter. Both dolphins and whales can be spotted from the shore. For a closer encounter, boat charters operate from Shelly Beach.

Deep sea fishing

Deep sea fishing charters operate from Shelly Beach and tend to be very affordable. The experience can be fun and very rewarding sinceyou get to keep your catch and have fresh fish for dinner. Anglers can reel in tuna and salmon for sushi and other tasy fish to go on the braai.