7 coastal towns that blur the lines

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South Africa’s coastline isn’t just a scenic backdrop – it’s a whole lifestyle.

And in some towns, the vibe is so warm, so whitewashed, and so olive-oiled, you’d swear you were somewhere along the Med.

Here are seven coastal towns that feel more Amalfi than Africa – but with fewer tourists and more heart…

1. Paternoster – South Africa’s Santorini

Whitewashed fishermen’s cottages, a cobalt ocean, and salty air. Paternoster looks like it washed up from the Mediterranean’s Aegean. Slow things down with seafood straight off the boat, long beach walks, and sunsets that feel like cinema.

2. Ramsgate, KZN – Amalfi Coast, but warmer

Ramsgate, KZN. Image: canva

Ramsgate offers lush cliffs, winding coastal roads, art galleries, and terraced views of the Indian Ocean that feel unmistakably Mediterranean. Only here, the water is warm enough to swim in without wincing, even in winter! It’s got that “coastal escape with soul” vibe – like Sorrento, with Durban-style hospitality.

3. St. Francis Bay – Venice, but make it surf

Thatched white homes line canals where you can kayak or cruise with a glass of wine in hand. Add a world-famous surf break, seafood shacks, and a lack of pretension, and you’ve got Italy’s Riviera on holiday.

4. Knysna, Garden Route, South Africa – Côte d’Azur meets coastal forest

Lagoon living, yacht spotting, wine sipping – Knysna is pure Riviera glamour with a forested twist. Take a boat to the Heads, grab oysters at the waterfront, and embrace the good life, Garden Route style.

5. Umdloti, KZN, South Africa – Cinque Terre with palm trees

Perched above rocky outcrops and wild waves, Umdloti combines small-town charm with panoramic views. Think pastel sunsets, oceanfront cafés, and dolphins in the surf. It’s like a tropical Cinque Terre, minus the stairs – and with bunny chow if you know where to look!

6. Salt Rock – Island calm with European flair

Salt Rock beach. Image: wikimedia commons

Salt Rock has that “hidden Greek cove” energy – small beaches, clear water, and slow mornings. It’s more chilled than its neighbour Ballito, with boutique B&Bs, leafy streets, and a relaxed elegance that wouldn’t be out of place in the Mediterranean’s Crete or Mallorca.

7. Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa – Cliffside drama, whale-tail views

You don’t have to squint to imagine Positano here. Towering cliffs, cliff-hugging trails, turquoise inlets, and seafood by the sea. Add migrating whales and fine Pinot Noir, and you’ve got the Amalfi Coast with an African soundtrack.