KZN South Coast Pensioners are Embracing Active Ageing with Unique Coastal Adventures

Retirement is no longer about slowing down; it’s about embracing every day with new experiences and adventures. And nowhere is this truer than on the KZN Mid-South Coast, where pensioners are taking advantage of the many coastal experiences that support active ageing in the most fun way possible.

The comprehensive Renishaw Hills Beaches eBook online gives great tips and suggestions from locals on the best coastal spots to visit.

“The KZN Mid-South Coast is the perfect setting for an active retirement lifestyle,” says Barto van der Merwe, Managing Director of Renishaw Property Developments, a subsidiary of Crookes Brothers Limited. “With its subtropical climate, Blue Flag beaches, world-class dive sites and beautiful coastal nature reserves, this is the ultimate backdrop for residents to enjoy the outdoors year-round. It’s been incredible to see how many Renishaw Hills residents have joined existing groups or formed their own clubs centred around coastal activities.”

Diving and Snorkelling

Wayne Hudson, a resident of Renishaw Hills, has been engaged in scuba diving for 17 years and frequently shares his underwater experiences from the famous Aliwal Shoal and the reefs near Rocky Bay. These Marine Protected Areas host a variety of tropical fish, rays, turtles, eels and various shark species, like the Grey Nurse sharks, which are also known as ragged tooth sharks (or ‘raggies’).

"Diving is a physically demanding activity that necessitates a certain level of fitness and a connection to the sea," Hudson states. "I wish I had started at a younger age! Many dive charters along the KZN South Coast organise daily trips to the accessible reefs suitable for recreational diving.

“For those interested in recreational diving, there are a fair number of local dive charters or scuba clubs, such as DUC (Durban Undersea Club), which is an excellent way to meet new people and partake in safe, structured ocean scuba adventures. Residing close to Aliwal Shoal allows me to dive twice a month and still return home in time for Saturday afternoon sports and an evening braai!”

He says that diving does necessitate a good level of physical fitness, adequate body strength, and sound medical health however, there are numerous alternatives if diving proves to be too strenuous: “The ocean provides a wide array of beach activities that are not limited, including snorkelling, whale and dolphin watching, and bird watching – not to mention the annual Sardine Run during the winter months!"

Granny Grommets Take to the Waves

The Granny Grommet - a local chapter founded by former Renishaw Hills resident Yvonne Klopper alongside another local resident, Jewels Blackbeard - demonstrates that age is no barrier to surfing, bodyboarding, or ocean swimming. Every Thursday morning, seniors hit the waves at Scottburgh Main Beach, supported by Scottburgh Lifesavers for safety.

“Being in the ocean keeps us fit, but it’s also about laughter, friendship, and enjoying the water,” says Yvonne. “We even hosted 15 ladies from Durban Granny Grommets recently for a fun morning of waves and breakfast at Scottie’s Coffee Shop. Our WhatsApp group has grown to 83 members and our Facebook page to 140, which proves that the ocean really brings people together.”

Morning Walks Along the Coast

For those who prefer dry land with some ocean and forest views, the Renishaw Hills Walkers go on a variety of walks across the estate and along nearby trails. There is something for everyone, from the brisk Road Walkers to the slower-paced Stroller Groups and Trail Walkers who follow farm roads, sugarcane contours, and forest MTB trails.

Some favourite trails include:

The River Trail along the Mpambanyoni River, with scenic river crossings.Mamba Alley, winding through coastal forest to Scottburgh Main Beach.Zig-Zag Trail near the waterfall, offering shaded forest and indigenous flora.Mineshaft Viewpoint, providing panoramic river and ocean views.Beach walk from Scottburgh to Black Rock River.

A truly community undertaking, the Renishaw Hills Strollers often join other walking groups, such as the Widdies Trailblazers Group, on Saturdays for coastal and farmland walks.

“Walking along these varied routes is both invigorating and calming,” Renishaw Hills resident Les Barker explains. “You experience wildlife - baby Crowned Eagles, kingfishers, and green wood-hoopoes - as well as breathtaking sunrises and the fresh ocean breeze. One of the trail walks ends at the beach, which we enjoy regularly, with other trails providing ocean views from above.”

Favourite Local Beaches

Residents have easy access to some of the KZN South Coast’s most beautiful shoreline destinations, including:

Scottburgh Beach: A popular Blue Flag beach known for its tidal pool, surfing conditions and family-friendly atmosphere.Pennington Beach: Another Blue Flag Beach and tranquil stretch of coastline ideal for swimming, beach walks and dolphin spotting.Umkomaas Beach: The gateway to some of the region’s famous dive sites and the renowned Aliwal Shoal.

Check out the Renishaw Hills Beaches eBook for a comprehensive list.

Van der Merwe says the growing number of outdoor clubs and social groups reflects the vibrant community spirit at Renishaw Hills: “Active ageing is about keeping physically fit, but also about building friendships and finding joy in everyday experiences. At Renishaw Hills, residents benefit from an incredible coastal environment that encourages them to get outside, stay engaged and enjoy their daily dose of Vitamin Sea!”