South Africa’s Wild Coast never ceases to amaze and its exquisite beauty lures travellers from far and wide. Morgan Bay is known as the Wild Coast Paradise and it only takes about an hour on the golden wedge between the ocean and the lagoon to realise why so many families choose to spend their holidays in this little town. From the shady caravan park on the lagoon’s edge to the mile-long beach, the picturesque cliffs and the riverine forests, this seaside village has everything to ensure a memorable getaway.
The Wild Coast Paradise is not only a short drive from East London for a quick getaway, it is also a great place for a well-deserved holiday. Whether you just want to kick back and relax or enjoy some adventurous activities, this is definitely a destination you would want to visit this year!
Attractions
This slice of unspoilt coast is any nature enthusiast’s dream with a myriad of activities. You can spend hours in the water or go for a hike in the hills – take your pick! The diverse flora also provides a habitat to over 270 bird species and other animals, so don’t leave your camera and binoculars at home. And if you just want to push pause and set all your worries aside, this seaside retreat is just the place for you!
Spectacular Coastline
The dramatic, rugged cliffs that tower from the ocean, stretching from the lagoon all the way to the Double Mouth Nature Reserve is a great place for rock climbing and abseiling. These cliffs drop about 50 meters into the water and is the perfect vantage point to take beautiful photographs! Share a special moment with friends and family while enjoying a sunset and sun-downers on the cliffs during summer. Enjoy the scenic walking trails, savour the stunning coastline, and be enveloped by the natural beauty of this heavenly hideaway.
Safe Beach and Lagoon
Morgan Bay’s long sandy beach is the ideal place to take long strolls and forget about the busy city life. Thanks to the warm Indian Ocean you’d probably want to spend most of your time in the water and the beach is popular among fisherman. The lagoon is a safe swimming spot for the little ones and ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddling, and other water sports. Bird watchers are also in for a treat with the rich bird life in this estuary.
Double Mouth Nature Reserve
The Double Mouth Nature Reserve is a picturesque coastal reserve only 4 kilometres from Morgan Bay. This meeting place of two rivers form a beautiful estuary between forested dunes. One of the most spectacular sites is Bead Beach or Treasure Beach, where hundreds of broken porcelain pieces, beads and coins from a 16th century Portuguese shipwreck can be found. Treat yourself to this rare piece of history in one of the most beautiful nooks on the Wild Coast.
Fun-filled Activities
Horse Riding on the Beach
One of the best ways to explore a beach is on horseback, no wonder it’s a popular pastime along the beaches of the Wild Coast. Enjoy this exciting activity in Morgan Bay by contacting one of the horse-riding companies in the area. Sharpen your horse-riding skills and enjoy this unique activity with a group of friends.
Yellowwood Forest Farmers Market
Yellowwood Forest is home to Morgan Bay Backpackers, Camping and Accommodation and has a tranquil farmers market for some retail therapy and delicious treats. Every Saturday from 09:00 to 14:00 you can get to know the locals by perusing their arts, crafts, and culinary skills. This site is great for camping and there are various cottages that you can choose from too.
Morganville Motorcycle Museum
Don’t be surprised if you spot a passenger jet on the side of the road at the turn off to Morgan Bay. This jet is not only famous for its unique location but for the passengers it carried — the likes of The Rolling Stones and Barbra Streisand! The museum is the home of Billy Nel’s famous private collection of more than 200 motorcycles and cars, including some rare models that will leave petrolheads in awe.
Accommodation
Morgan Bay may be small but it doesn’t have a shortage of great accommodation options. Click here to have a look at the leafy camping site on the lagoon, the seafront hotel, and convenient self-catering homes.
Whether you just want to unwind, frolic in the water or get into your active gear, Morgan Bay will have something for you. Put Morgan Bay on your travel bucket list this year, you won’t be sorry!
Feature image: Morgan Bay Caravan Park (TravelGround)
