BEACHES

The warm Indian Ocean beaches are ideal for swimming, surfing, yachting and kayaking. Alkantstrand and Newark Beaches are protected by lifeguards and shark nets. Facilities include: picnic/braai sites, a super tube and putt-putt course, a restaurant and kiosk.

DEEP SEA FISHING

Boat owners are able to launch their boats at the Richards Bay Ski Boat Club and the Meerensee Boat Club. Visitors can also enjoy a day’s fishing aboard the private fishing charters.

DOLPHIN VIEWING PLATFORM

Situated at the end of the North Breakwater Pier at Alkantstrand Beach, this specially erected platform allows visitors to view the Humpback dolphins that frequent the Richards Bay coastline.

ENSELENI NATURE RESERVE

Situated 15 minutes drive from Richards Bay on the N2 towards Empangeni. Entrance to the reserve is free and visitors are welcome to enjoy the picnic / braai sites and self guided nature walks. The Nkonkoni Trail is 7km and the Mvubu Trail is 3km in length. A variety of small mammals and an abundance of bird life can be seen. A conference / activity center is available to educational groups and other interested parties.

HORSE TRAILS AND RIDING LESSONS

Visitors can explore the forests and sugar cane fields on horseback.

LAKE MZINGAZI

This 944ha freshwater natural lake is the source of Richards Bay’s water. It is home to an abundance of hippo’s and crocodiles, and is the favoured feeding place of the fish eagles that the town is renowned for. The lake has been left untouched and can best be viewed in its natural splendour from the Richards Bay Country Club.

MAPHELANA

A KZN Wildlife Reserve ±45km from Richards Bay. Activities include ski boating, hiking, swimming and surf fishing. Accommodation is available in either the well-equipped log cabins, or campsites – bookings for these must be done through the KZN Conservation Services at their Pietermaritzburg offices.

MOTOR GLIDER FLIGHTS

Based at the Richards Bay Airport, these flights afford visitors the chance to view the magnificent unspoilt coastline by air, and even to learn to fly the glider themselves.

MUNICIPAL SWIMMING POOLS

Ideal for a full body workout, or simply for cooling off. These facilities are extensively used during the long hot summer months, and an added bonus is that life guards are constantly in attendance during open times.

RICHARDS BAY COUNTRY CLUB

This club is situated on the banks of Lake Mzingazi and boasts a variety of sporting facilities including a spectacular 18-hole golf course, Squash, Tennis, Snooker and Swimming.

SHORE FISHING

Visitors can fish from Naval Island, Pelican Island and the entire Bay Shore area. Please contact KZN Wildlife regarding fishing legislation, regulations and permits.

THULA THULA

An exclusive private Game Reserve and Safari Lodge, a mere 20 minutes drive from Empangeni, offers an abundance of wildlife, including elephant, rhino and leopard, fine bird watching and superb cuisine.

TUZI GAZI WATERFRONT

The Tuzi Gazi Waterfront is an ideal playground for water sports enthusiasts. The upmarket office complex, numerous shops, pubs, restaurants and walk on moorings add to the vibrant atmosphere.