Escape winter hibernation and head to one of the awesome warm winter beaches for some much-needed sun.
Grand Baie, Mauritius
Heading to the tropics is always the best plan. Grand Baie in Mauritius has all the deep blue water, white sand, nightspots and trendy restaurants you could wish for. The island is great to visit any time of year, but May to September is ideal as there are slightly cooler temperatures and less frequent rain. Not a quiet beach, Grand Baie is a major tourist attraction. It buzzes day and night and is a hit for people who want to soak up the sun and Mauritian holiday atmosphere. www.mauritius.net
Barra Beach, Mozambique
Winter is the best season for surfing at Barra and the diving in the area is spectacular. There’s such a variety of activities on offer – such as horse riding, snorkelling, fishing and dhow trips – that you might not find time simply to lounge on the beach, basking in the sun. After a full day, you’ll be able to kick back at the Barra Lodge bar with a cocktail. Another advantage of visiting Mozambique in winter is that you should benefit from low season rates if you avoid school holidays. www.barralodge.co.za.
Alkantstrand, KwaZulu-Natal
As a pilot Blue Flag beach, Alkantstrand in Richards Bay offers safe, warm-water swimming throughout the year. Even on a slightly breezy day, shelter can be found next to the breakwater. A popular surfing beach, Alkantstrand also has braai and picnic spots, which makes it perfect for a day out. For those who love the sea but loathe the sand, the grassy strip at the edge of the beach provides refuge, while keeping you close to the water for a quick dip. www.encounter.co.za/alkantstrand.html
Trafalgar, KwaZulu- Natal
On the popular South Coast, Trafalgar is a quiet beach away from the crowds. Its Blue Flag status means the beach is safe and there are clean facilities. (Pack your own refreshments, as there are no vendors.) Warm water and good weather are almost guaranteed all year round. Other than bathing, this is an ideal spot for snorkelling because the reef is home to a variety of fish species. It also contains remains of shellfish, plant material and petrified wood. www.kznsouthcoast.co.za
Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape
The beauty of the Eastern Cape coast in winter is its warm, balmy days. The surfer’s paradise of Jeffreys Bay, with famous spots such a Kitchen Windows and Supertubes, is no exception. Combine cranking waves with sunshine and warm water and it’s a haven for anyone looking for some winter fun. J-Bay’s Dolphin Beach has been awarded Blue Flag status, confirming its high standards. If you can drag yourself away to enjoy some retail therapy, hit the famous Billabong factory shop. www.jeffreysbaytourism.org
Skeleton Coast, Namibia
While the Skeleton Coast isn’t a laze-on-the-beach destination, it has plenty to offer adventurous travellers. The desolate, 500-kilometre coastline, with its sun-bleached whalebones and hulking shipwrecks, has its own allure. The weather is moderate all year round, with mist, wind and light rain contributing to the atmosphere. Driving the coastline makes for a daring 4×4 holiday. Get a permit from the Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism before entering the Skeleton Coast Park.
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