With its subtropical climate and safe bathing beaches, the KZN South Coast is the ideal family-friendly destination for the upcoming summer holiday. And following the recent announcement regarding its pilot Blue Flag Beach status and the upcoming holiday specials, Rocky Bay Resorts is already booking up quickly!

“The summer holiday is so associated with the seaside for many South Africans, and we’re delighted that we’re able to welcome back visitors to our beautiful beaches, with Rocky Bay attaining the international standard of pilot Blue Flag Status. There are also fantastic outdoor adventures that will keep all ages entertained,” said Annien Koulountis, Resorts Manager at Rocky Bay Resorts.

“Take a break from the hustle-and-bustle of daily life and get away from screens to spend some quality family time out in nature. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or enjoy some adrenaline rush entertainment, Rocky Bay Resorts is the spot to visit.”

There are several tour operators based at Rocky Bay Resorts, making this a one-stop for holiday fun. Here’s a look at some of the adventures on offer.

1. Shark cage diving

Get that heart rate up and experience as the ocean comes alive with KZN Shark Cage Diving at Rocky Bay Resorts. This experienced team takes divers out to Aliwal Shoal which is not only a Marine Protected Area, but is considered one of the world’s top dive sites. Visitors are taken out in a stainless-steel, SAMSA-approved shark cage for an up-close (and completely safe!) experience with blacktips, duskies, spinners, tigers and Zambezis.

And this December, KZN Shark Cage Diving is running a not-to-be-missed special! Shark cage dives are discounted from R1 400 per person to R1 100 per person with no diving experience required and non-swimmers welcome from the age of six years and up. This is a two-hour trip which includes 30 minutes in the cage, as well as (about 60) professional underwater photos and a DVD of your dive, free.

KZN Shark Cage Diving is also hosting a special on snorkelling with sharks (without a cage) discounted from R1 700 per person to R1 300 per person. This is a safe experience of 40 minutes, although participants must be comfortable in the water with snorkelling experience. This also includes the free underwater shoot and DVD.

Also based at Rocky Bay Resorts is Mokarran Dive Charters with experienced operators ready to assist with all underwater excursions, for everyone from beginners to advanced levels. This is an internationally recognised PADI 5* Dive Centre offering various ocean adventures suitable for children from 4 years, to adults. There’s everything from fun boat rides and snorkelling to free diving, scuba diving, and PADI dive courses. Visitors get to experience the thrill of ocean exploration with a team of highly experienced skippers, instructors and dive masters.

2. Rocky Bay Resorts Weekend of Exploring 

Rocky Bay Resorts has some of the best outdoor trails for hiking, biking and birding. The 111km Rocky Bay trails cater to everyone from novice to experienced mountain bikers and trail runners, winding through sugar cane fields with ocean views and into the indigenous coastal forest.

The venue is hosting a fantastic Weekend of Exploring in preparation for the festive season. On Saturday, 19 November there will be a 6km guided forest trail walk and on Sunday, 20 November there will be a 6km guided beach walk. The package price of R550 per person includes both walks, accommodation, lunch on Saturday at Dock 360 restaurant (located at Rocky Bay Resorts) and a snack on the beach walk on Sunday.

Badger’s Cycling and Sports Centre (formerly The Saddle Shack) based at Rocky Bay Resorts is available to assist with biking equipment and guidance. The mountain biking trails include the easier 12km route, increasing to the 19km, 29km and 39km trails. Outdoor adventurers who prefer hiking and trail running can get out on the signposted 6km, 8km and 10km trails.

3. Moonlight Festival @ Rocky Bay Resorts

Get into the festive spirit on Friday, 16 December with the Moonlight Festival @ Rocky Bay Resorts. Visitors to this evening of entertainment will enjoy some live music, fantastic food, craft stalls, fun for the little ones, a fun Night Ride, and so much more!

4. Great seaside accommodation

Rocky Bay Resorts has accommodation ranging from one-bedroom log cabins to a six-sleeper, three-bedroom log cabins and a Caravan Park with many sites offering sea views. To add to the festive fun, Rocky Bay Resorts is offering 20% off all new reservations received for log cabins and campsites (T&Cs apply).

Visit www.rockybay.co.za or like the @RockyBayResorts Facebook page to find out more about these specials and events. To book accommodation at the Rocky Bay Resorts log cabins or Caravan Park, call 039 976 0336. Book the beach break of your dreams today: https://enquiries.rockybay.co.za/

Disclaimer: Rocky Bay Trails are maintained but not manicured to retain more of an ‘adventure experience’. Visitors use the trails at their own risk. There are no collection or rescue services for any emergency.