As a lovely long summer slows into a balmy Autumn in the Southern Hemisphere, there are some spectacular destinations drawing in tourists from across the world to the southern parts of Africa. White dune beaches with thatch bungalows where you can just let yourself fall off the radar beckon.

Let’s take a look at the top 5 best beach family holidays in Southern Africa for 2023 in this countdown.

1. Plettenberg Bay – South Africa

Well known and loved by the local South African set and the international jet set Plettenberg Bay has that special je ne sais quoi that just Plet can provide. As another pick from the ever popular Garden Route, Plet does deserve its place as it offers miles of fantastic beaches, lagoons, forests, rivers and estuaries breaming with wildlife. What is not to love? Activities that get you into nature from hiking to snorkelling are popular in the area.

2. Guinjata Bay – Mozambique

The beautiful Guinjata Bay situated in the tourist hub of Inhambane province, a province which has many spectacular scuba diving sites to offer offshore, has great activities for the whole family and is a favourite for South Africans heading out to Moz. From deep see fishing to snorkling, kayaking, diving with marine wildlife in certain seasons and even festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Guinjata Bay. For great Mozambique accommodation specials, book with Golden Palms Beach Resort.

3. Ballito – South Africa

With so many beachfront accommodation options near the main beach, Ballito has become a place of memories for many South Africans. The little seaside village has morphed into a city suburb with state of the art Ballito Mall but because of the developments location, Ballito still retains a lot of its charm and it has real gems like Thompsons Bay Beach with its voluminous tidal pool, which is sure to provide some visual interest for snorkelers.

4. Knysna – South Africa

With the Knysna forest, Sedgefield and the spectacular Knysna Heads, what is there not to love.
The Storms River Mouth reserve which boasts endemic forest and fynbos is an experience not to be missed especially the view of the breakers where the Indian ocean meets it rocky shores, all to be seen from impressive suspension bridges.
Walk in the quiet solitude of the Knysna forest when the ocean and beach have worn you out, and who knows you might hear the cracking of branches of one of the secret Knysna elephants.

5. Mossel Bay – South Africa

A traditional family breakaway destination for many South Africans as it is perfectly situated along the Garden Route, Mossel Bay offers a relaxed vibe, great restaurants and wide beaches perfect to while away the warm days left of the year. It sports a variety of museums and a highlight is the Dias Museum Complex which the whole family will enjoy.