Spring is calling, and the Sunshine Coast is ready.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Filiz Elaerts/Unsplash
While Jeffreys Bay draws surfers from around the world to its famous breaks, the Eastern Cape coastline has another story to tell. Between Gqeberha and East London, quieter beaches, rocky coves, enormous dunes and little seaside villages offer plenty of reasons to slow down and explore beyond the obvious stops.
Start near Gqeberha at Maitland Beach, where a broad sweep of golden sand sits beneath some of the region’s most impressive coastal dunes. Despite being relatively close to the city, the beach can feel wonderfully wild, particularly outside peak holiday periods. Come for a sunrise walk, beachcombing or a dune wander, and bring a camera. Spring’s softer temperatures make it an ideal time to linger.
Further west, Van Stadens Beach is tucked below dramatic cliffs and reached by a steep descent. The effort is rewarded with a peaceful shoreline, rock pools and opportunities for surf fishing and shell spotting. Nearby, Van Stadens Wildflower Reserve adds another reason to make the detour, particularly in spring when the landscape begins to put on a colourful display.
For something beneath the surface, make your way to Kini Bay. The rocky reefs here attract divers and snorkellers looking to explore the Sunshine Coast’s underwater world. Depending on conditions, you may encounter reef fish, octopus and colourful nudibranchs. It is a reminder that the region’s beaches are more than stretches of sand: they are gateways to remarkably diverse marine habitats.
Follow the coast east
Near Cannon Rocks, Boknes Beach is the kind of place that invites you to unpack a picnic and stay for the afternoon. Its broad sandy shoreline is suited to long walks, fishing and birdwatching, while the nearby Dias Cross Memorial adds a dose of history to the coastal outing.
Then there is Cannon Rocks, a small seaside community where the pace is gloriously unhurried. The surrounding beaches offer space for walking, fishing and rock-pool exploring, while the area is also known for kite surfing. Offshore, migrating whales can make an appearance during the cooler months. The nearby Alexandria Coastal Dunefield is another highlight, forming one of the largest and least disturbed coastal dune fields in the country.
For true escape, continue to Kasouga Beach. With little commercial development, this stretch of coastline feels wonderfully removed from the busier holiday towns. Bring provisions, a towel and plenty of time. Fishing, coastal walks and quiet beach days are the order of business, while dolphins may occasionally be spotted offshore.
Small beaches, big wildlife
The Sunshine Coast is also an excellent place to combine a beach road trip with wildlife watching. The Woody Cape section of Addo Elephant National Park protects coastal forest and dune systems, while estuaries such as the Kariega and Bushmans rivers provide important habitats for birds and aquatic life.
Keep binoculars handy. African black oystercatchers, Cape gannets and kelp gulls can be seen along the coast, while dolphins are possible year-round. Winter is particularly rewarding for whale watching, with southern right and humpback whales moving through coastal waters. Around estuaries and coastal forests, lucky visitors may also encounter otters or blue duiker.
Further south, Glen Eden offers another secluded coastal stop, with rocky headlands, rock pools and a relaxed holiday atmosphere. It is well suited to families and travellers who would rather spend the day exploring the shoreline than chasing a checklist of attractions.
The region’s natural spaces are connected by more than scenery. Areas such as the Sardinia Bay Marine Protected Area and the Alexandria Coastal Dunefield protect coastal habitats and marine ecosystems, making responsible exploration particularly important. Stick to designated paths where provided, avoid disturbing marine life and leave shells, rocks and other natural treasures where you find them.
Make it a spring road trip
Spring is an especially appealing time to explore. September to November brings pleasant temperatures, blooming coastal vegetation and the possibility of migrating whales, while the beaches are generally less hectic than during the December holiday rush.
Rather than racing from one famous surf spot to the next, plan a few days and take the scenic route. Pack a picnic, walking shoes, binoculars and something to swim in. Try a guided marine ecology walk, explore a rock pool at low tide, kayak an estuary or book a beach horseback ride. Even better, choose a small coastal village as your base and spend each morning discovering a different stretch of sand.
Jeffreys Bay may be the Sunshine Coast’s headline act, but it is only the beginning. Follow the road, take the detours and let spring lead you towards the quieter shores.
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