Sodwana Bay encompasses coral reefs, stretches of forest and wildlife reserves. It’s known for its scuba diving within the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage protected parkland. Two miles (three kilometers) of reef, rock shelves and underwater caves provide habitat for tropical fish, sharks and turtles. Dolphins, whales and whale sharks swim just off the reef. Turtles nest on the long stretch of Sodwana Beach during summer, and a great many species of birds can be found in the coastal forest.
Sign up with a scuba dive tour operator to take a trip out through the waves to the top dive spots. Many of the operators offer accommodation as part of a package. Book a tour online or through a travel agent in a nearby town or city.
The waters are relatively warm year-round and have high visibility. Those who don’t want to scuba dive can rent a snorkel and swim amongst the coral. Most of the snorkeling spots are accessible via the beach by 4-wheel drive.
Climb aboard a game fishing expedition to catch one of the marlin, sailfish, kingfish and barracuda that dwell in the deeper waters. You can also fish from the beach for pelagic fish, which are not protected within the marine reserve.
The beach can be enjoyed on foot or on horseback as part of a tour. Further up into the coastal dunes and forest are sign-posted nature walks and opportunities for bird watching. The best birding walk is a little further north at Lake Sibaya, where there have been sightings of more than 250 bird species. Take a picnic and a camera and spend a day exploring the coastal forest and its inhabitants on the Ngoboseleni Trail. The four-hour hike starts and ends at the Ezemvelo Wildlife Reception Office. Keep an eye out for Red Duiker and Reedbuck antelopes around the dunes and forest.
There’s accommodation for every budget in Sodwana, from camping in the coastal forest and self-contained beach houses to luxury chalets. You’ll find amenities such as restaurants, tourist information and a doctor within the park. Come by rental car from Durban.