Whether you hit the beach to carve up the surf breaks, reel in a catch or simply relax on the sand, Nahoon Beach is a versatile getaway on the Wild Coast. Surf big waves, watch national surfing competitions and enjoy kayaking adventures. This area is also a popular destination for picturesque hikes and spectacular views of the coast. Nahoon Beach fronts a suburb of the same name, located a short drive east from East London’s city center.
The beach itself is comprised of a long sweep of golden sand curving up into large dunes, with clean waves rolling in from the Indian Ocean. You’ll find facilities such as changing rooms at Nahoon Beach but there are no restaurants or snack bars. Lifeguards patrol the beach and mark out the safe swimming area with flags. At the north end of the beach, the ocean converges with the Nahoon River and creates a calm lagoon.
The waves are famously big here, especially in the winter months. Watch surfers and kitesurfers perform impressive tricks in the waves. Sign up for surf lessons with the adventure center located on the beach. Join a kayaking or fishing trip and cruise inland along the Nahoon River.
Stroll to the south end of the beach to find a boardwalk that leads through rolling sand dunes to the rocky headland, Nahoon Point. Admire the rugged scenery of the Wild Coast and look down to see Nahoon Reef, a famous surf spot where regular competitions are held. Follow the Dassie Trail, a 1.2-mile (2-kilometer) long trail that winds through the mangrove forests and mudflats of the Nahoon Estuary Nature Reserve.
Away from the beach, the suburb of Nahoon Beach is home to useful amenities. Find backpacker hostels, guesthouses, supermarkets, bars and restaurants.
Nahoon Beach is about a 15-minute drive from East London’s city center. The easiest way to get here is by car, as public buses in East London are infrequent. Free parking is available at the north entrance to the beach and Nahoon Point.
