Shelly Beach - A Treasure Trove of Shells and Adventure

Halfway between Margate and Port Shepstone, Shelly Beach is a vibrant shopping and water sports area on the KZN South Coast. The beach of Shelly Beach is known for the abundant shells that get washed up onto the beach. Keep an eye out for the delicate, tiny, pink lady shells. This beautiful beach offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. With a large tidal pool and warm ocean water, there is so much to explore. 

Diving & Marine Adventures

Shelly Beach is a gateway to world-class diving at Protea Banks, a renowned shark-diving site 7.5km offshore. Here, divers encounter bull sharks, hammerheads, and tiger sharks amid coral reefs and underwater caves. Closer to shore, snorkelers can explore tidal pools and lagoons teeming with tropical fish.

Activities for All at Shelly Beach

Fishing:

Home to the largest ski boat base between Durban and East London Shelly Beach Ski Boat Club calls Shelly Beach home.  At times this ski boat base can be very busy, and we would encourage visitors to stay clear of the ramp. Shelly Beach also hosts deep-sea angling competitions year-round. Many deep sea charter companies work out of Shelly Beach, and we have a list of some that you could try on our page about the Ski Boat Club. 

Don’t Miss the Sardine Run

Between May and August, head to the KZN South Coast to see the “greatest shoal on Earth” as billions of sardines migrate past our coast. 

The huge shoals of sardines attract predators like dolphins, sharks, and seabirds. It is quite a sight to watch the flocks of seabirds diving and the water frothing with activity. And people risking their lives to pick out a few from the surf. To celebrate this season, there are many activities on the coast, which will certainly keep you entertained. The Sardine Run is quite a spectacle to see – watch out for local newspapers or the local radio/social media, which keep people updated as to the shoals’ whereabouts.

Family Fun:

Safe swimming (with shark nets), beachcombing (shell collecting), and lifeguards on duty make this beach ideal for families. The nearby Shelly Beach Shopping Centre can help out with any beach items you forgot to pack.

Shell Collecting

Well, of course, it wouldn’t be right to not include shell collecting as something you can do at Shelly Beach. We would be surprised if you managed a walk on the beach without collecting something. Those in the know … will head about 1km north on the beach to some good patches of shells (another free Insider Tip for you!). 

Bear in mind that collecting empty shells is generally allowed; however, there are restrictions on live shells. A great source of information is the Conchological Society of South Africa which is the main body that oversees all the local Shell Clubs in Southern Africa. There is a Shelly Beach Shell Club and more information can be found at the St Mikes’ Book Exchange on Marine Drive near St Michaels.

Wildlife & Nature:

Spot whales/dolphins (June–November) by signing up to one of the deep sea charter companies that offer sightseeing tours. What else can you do when you’re down visiting the Shelly Beach area? Well, can we suggest you explore some of the other South Coast attractions under our “Things to Do” and Explore sections of our menu? If you want specifics, we would recommend exploring the Red Desert in Port Edward or checking out  Oribi Gorge. Oribi Gorge has many things to offer, like the Lake Eland Game Reserve as well as some Extreme Adventures like zip-lines, wild swings, hiking, mountain biking, and more!

Shelly Beach is a personal family favourite and one that I grew up visiting frequently. I have fond memories of collecting many, many, many shells. My favourite spot for collecting shells was always to head just south of the tidal pool.  Try getting down real close and discover the teeny tiny perfect little shells that are waiting to be found!