Uvongo Beach
A unique waterfall, lagoon and stunning beach experience
Uvongo Beach is unique in that it has a 23-meter-high waterfall that plunges into one of the deepest lagoons in the country. When on the beach, you get the impression of being on a sheltered, secluded beach because of the rocky wall behind it, covered with lush tropical plants, that forms a green protective wall.
The contrast between the beauty of this seemingly unspoiled beach and the high-rise buildings behind it is striking, proving that civilization and nature can live side by side and thrive.
Uvongo Beach is very popular because of what is on offer:
- 23m waterfall
- deep lagoon
- rock pools
- safe beach and amenities
- swimming, surfing, bodyboarding
- inviting kids pool
- restaurant and shops
- gorgeous tidal pool
- a pier offering amazing views
For a different perspective and a bit of adventure, hire one of the paddleboats and take it for a spin in the lagoon. You can paddle right up to the foot of the 23-meter-high waterfall, which is a view you can’t get from the beach. It’s the perfect way to spend a peaceful hour before heading back to the waves.
Warning: For Your Safety at Uvongo Beach: While the sea at Uvongo Beach is perfectly safe and monitored, we strongly advise against swimming or wading in the lagoon. There have been reports of water quality issues from upstream pollution, and several visitors have reported becoming ill after exposure to the water. We recommend enjoying the beautiful sea as your safest option. Check local signage before swimming.
The beach has shark nets and is watched over by capable lifeguards. Swimming in the waves rolling in is exhilarating, and there are plenty of opportunities for surfing and bodyboarding. Read our article about all the surfing spots on the KZN South Coast.
Lilliecrona Boulevard (next to the beach) is perfect for taking longs walks, a jog or cycling as it allows for breathtaking views of the ocean. A quick dip in the tidal pool or a long cool drink in the local restaurant afterwards will remind you that a beach holiday is the stuff dreams are made of.
The pier on the south side of the beach is a ‘must-visit’ for the views and is also a firm favorite for fishermen.
Uvongo is named after the iVungu River. In the Zulu language it refers to the sound the wind makes as it moves through the rocky gorges.
While everyone loves the main beach, the real magic of Uvongo is best experienced on foot. Take a leisurely walk along the footpath next to the river that flows into the sea. It leads you past the famous waterfall and into the Uvongo River Nature Reserve, where you’ll feel completely secluded in the lush tropical forest. It’s a great spot for bird watching and offers a different perspective on the waterfall.
P.S. Don’t forget to visit Margate
Have a look at some of the sights at Uvongo Beach
Uvongo Kiddies Swimming Pool
There is a inviting shallow pool next to the beach for kiddies to have fun in. The area is fenced in but it is still a good idea for adults to hang around to keep an eye on their little ones in case the gate is accidentally left open. Please note that the pool is not supervised.
On the side of the pool are a line of trees that offers some shade and a lawn area where you can spread out a blanket and catch a tan while being near the sparkling pool.
Don’t forget sun protection!
Uvongo Beach Tidal Pool
The tidal pool, that is next to the parking area, is simply gorgeous. On the day we visited we ended up sitting on the side of the pool with our feet dipped in the water for way too long. The views from there are spectacular and the water was a perfect body temperature. Relaxation at its best.
The sloping walkway allows for easy wheelchair access into the pool and the big steps to the side offer perfect seating if you just want to sit there and take in the waves rolling in.
Parking and Access
There is a parking area on the north side of the beach that has a sloping walkway taking you past the tidal pool and restaurant, ending at the flight of steps leading down to the beach.
There is also a bigger parking area on the south side of the beach, where the Uvongo Pier is, that offers spectacular views over the ocean. This is an excellent spot if you feel like staying in your car to enjoy the gorgeous views or if you feel like venturing out to the pier.
Amazing Walking Trails from Uvongo Beach
Uvongo Beach serves as the perfect starting point for several scenic walking adventures.
Beach and River Trail: The most popular trail follows the river inland, beginning next to where the Uvongo River flows into the sea. This well-trodden path leads you past the spectacular 23-meter waterfall and into the Uvongo River Nature Reserve, where you’ll discover tropical riverine forest and excellent birdwatching opportunities among scattered trees and coastal vegetation. Be prepared for warm conditions as temperatures can rise significantly within the reserve.
Cliff Walk: For the more adventurous, there’s a short but steep walk up the cliff face; however, please note there are no safety railings and this activity is undertaken entirely at your own risk. We strongly advise extreme caution.
Saints Walk : A popular trail heads north towards St Michaels Beach. This route doubles as the Uvongo Park Run course, which takes place every Saturday morning at 8am starting from C-Bali Restaurant – one of South Africa’s oldest Park Run events, running since 2013.
Uvongo to Manaba Walk: You can easily walk south between Uvongo Beach and Manaba Beach via a 2 km coastal route along Marine Drive, taking about 30 minutes. The path is scenic, not strenuous, and frequently used by locals for walking and jogging.
Where is the Uvongo Beach?
GPS: 30.83455, 30.39612
It is very easy to reach the beach as it is a short drive of just over two and a half blocks from the R620. Use the map below to find your way there or to find the parking area on the Uvongo Pier side to reach the beach from the west. Keep driving and you will find the town of Margate and Margate Beach – THE destination for many visitors to the KZN South Coast.