The South African coastline, which boasts some of the world’s most iconic beaches and towns, has long been popular for residential investors. Along the country’s warmer KwaZulu-Natal coastline lies the idyllic South Coast, a region dense with natural forest and ocean views, which is fast becoming a retirement haven. Compared to other popular retirement destinations such as Cape Town, East London, Jeffreys Bay, Port Alfred, St Francis, and St Francis Bay, which are also sought-after for a relaxed lifestyle in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape, the South Coast stands out for its unique blend of tranquility and accessibility.
For a peaceful coastal retirement, the South Coast is an ideal location. For those who enjoy outdoor activities and community living, the region provides ample opportunities for recreation and social engagement. The Garden Route is another scenic region known for its natural beauty and outdoor attractions, but the South Coast offers a distinct coastal charm and affordability.
One of the key features is the mild, subtropical climate that makes the South Coast comfortable year-round. The region offers a wide range of amenities and lifestyle benefits, including golf courses, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities. As one of South Africa’s premier retirement destinations, the South Coast attracts retirees seeking both beauty and convenience. South Africa is home to diverse and attractive coastal retirement options, and the South Coast is a standout among them. South Africa’s coastline is dotted with vibrant retirement communities, each offering unique experiences. In the town of Margate, for example, the town is known for its friendly atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and easy access to essential services. The South Coast also provides excellent value for money, with retirement properties often more affordable than those in other regions. Within the South Coast region, you’ll find secure retirement estates and amenities tailored to senior living. You can also enjoy a variety of activities, from fishing and hiking to cultural events and local markets. Choosing the South Coast for your retirement means embracing a lifestyle that is both active and relaxing. The area is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of major cities. Purpose-built retirement village options are available, offering security, healthcare, and a sense of community. Additionally, the South Coast’s proximity to towns in the Eastern Cape allows retirees to easily explore and connect with other coastal destinations.
Introduction to Retirement on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast
The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is a gem on the coast of South Africa, renowned as a popular retirement destination for those seeking the perfect blend of natural beauty, comfort, and convenience. Stretching along a scenic 160-kilometer coastline, this region is part of the eastern reaches of South Africa, close to the Eastern Cape and not far from the famed Garden Route. The area is celebrated for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and a relaxed way of life that makes it one of the best places to retire in South Africa.
For those considering a retirement destination that offers more than just beautiful views, the South Coast is a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife. The region is home to a variety of coastal towns, each with its own unique charm, and is well-connected to the Western Cape and the rest of the country. With its subtropical climate, the area provides the ideal setting for outdoor activities, from exploring nature trails to enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
The South Coast is a part of South Africa’s renowned coastal belt, offering retirees the chance to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle while remaining close to modern amenities and healthcare facilities. Whether you are drawn to the tranquility of the beaches, the adventure of the nearby Garden Route, or the welcoming communities in the area, you can find a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement here. With its combination of natural wonders and contemporary comforts, the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast stands out as one of the best places in South Africa to retire to and enjoy your golden years.
Weather
The warm Indian Ocean and sub-tropical local climate means that residents can enjoy year-round comfortable conditions. Averaging an incredible 320 days of sunshine a year, the South Coast winters hover around 20°C, with the summer temperatures ranging between 24° and 32°C on average. There has been significant research into the impact of climate on physical and mental wellbeing and – overall – results indicate enhanced alertness and memory, as well as heart and respiratory function in warmer climates. Because cold weather requires your body to work harder to regulate heat, blood pressure can increase to unhealthy levels, leading to long-term damage.
Active Lifestyle as a Retirement Destination
While everyone has good intentions with regards to exercise, it is significantly easier to get outdoors and exercise at the coast. The ocean views and fresh sea air are generally more enticing than the cities and built areas. Where colder areas encourage a more indoor lifestyle, the warmer South Coast climate encourages residents to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. In addition, the South Coast is home to numerous cycling and hiking trails within coastal forests, as well as endless sports’ facilities, and aquatic activities such as swimming and paddling. It’s also worth noting that exercising near the sea has been found to burn more calories than indoor activities, while the exposure to sunshine increases calcium absorption, enhancing bone strength and fighting hypertension.
Health Benefits
A study from the European Centre for Environment & Human Health from the University of Exeter revealed that people living near the coast tend to have better health – both mental and physical – than those living inland. Besides maintaining an active lifestyle, sea air and sea water are effective remedies for health problems such as respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, and skin diseases. Deep sea water, rich in minerals, is also known to have therapeutic benefits for the heart. A study published in the Journal of Coastal Zone Management indicated that participants who live in homes with ocean views are calmer than those without them. In addition to the many health benefits, the South Coast is also home to top-class hospitals and medical facilities staffed by renowned medical professionals. These include NetCare Kingsway Hospital in ‘Toti, Hibiscus Private Hospital in Port Shepstone and Netcare Margate Hospital with many retirement villages also offering high-quality home-based healthcare for residents.
Affordability
As a popular residential investment, houses along the South African coast can be quite pricey, but the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is able to offer truly affordable investments without sacrificing on quality. There are many secure retirement estates emerging with high-end facilities, as well as security, health care and maintenance services – all of which are inclusive of the monthly levy. Residents can enjoy swimming pools, gyms, nature trails and community centres – among many others – all on their doorstep.
Facilities and Attractions
Those investing in estates will get to enjoy high-end facilities on site, but there is so much more that the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast offers for residents and visiting relatives. This area is home to one of the world’s most revered scuba diving sites – Aliwal Shoal – as well as safe swimming beaches ideal for snorkelling, swimming, paddling and surfing. There is horse riding, shark cage diving, whale watching, fishing, coastal forest nature trails, wildlife viewing, day spas, and many other sports and recreational activities such as ice skating and bowling. Known as the country’s Golf Coast, the South Coast offers golfers and would-be golfers the opportunity to play at any of the 11 diverse courses stretching from Umkomaas in the north to the Wild Coast in the south.
“Residents at Renishaw Hills have commented on enhanced overall health as one of the many benefits of relocating to this spectacular part of South Africa,” explained Phil Barker, managing director of Renishaw Property Developments, developers of Renishaw Hills, a mature lifestyle development on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. “The interest in the development is substantial and we are excited to announce the launch of Phase 5 which launches on Monday, 13 May, offering some really exciting investment opportunities.”
