Accessible only by off-road vehicles, this section of the Park includes pristine beaches and beautiful dune vistas.
Explore one of the most unspoilt wilderness beaches left on the African continent. Part of the Maputaland Marine Reserve, the Maputaland Coastal Forest is only accessible by off-road vehicles.
This section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park includes the pristine beaches of Mabibi, Island Rock, Lala Nek, Rocktail Bay and Black Rock offering swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing. Large strelitzias and beautiful dune vistas are features of this landscape.
The pristine beaches of the Coastal Forest section
eMabibi, Island Rock, Lala Nek and Black Rock
Mabibi is a magical place of coastal forests, shimmering lakes and exquisite sandy beaches. Its crystal clear, warm waters invite snorkelling and off-shore scuba diving. Lala Nek boasts an emerged sedimentary rocky reef with a safe shore entry, brimming with diverse marine life, perfect for snorkelling.
Black Rock beach is situated on the coast, close to the lake chain system of Kosi Bay. The prominent rock formation on the point gives Black Rock its name. For fishermen, Black Rock bay offers excellent sea fly fishing, as well as rock and surf angling opportunities. Behind the back line awaits some of the best shallow-water game fishing along the coast.
Join us in welcoming some of iSimangaliso’s oldest residents as they arrive at their birthplace
The Marine Reserve is considered one of the premier dive sites in South Africa, with pristine coral reefs that only Rocktail Beach Camp and Thonga Beach Lodge guests get to explore.
Depending on the time of year, you may also get to experience turtles laying eggs, hatchlings scrambling down to the safety of the sea, whale sharks, and swimming with dolphins.
Accommodation in the Park
Mabibi Camp Site
Mabibi is part of the Maputaland Marine reserve, situated between Sodwana Bay and Kosi Bay.
Website | Email | 035 474 1504
Rocktail Camp
Set in the shade of the lush Maputaland Coastal Forest, Rocktail Beach Camp has 17 rooms and boasts plenty of facilities.
Website | Email | 011 807 1800
Thonga Beach Lodge
This 24-bed luxury lodge is set in a secluded dune forest with stunning coastal views, a 25 minute drive from Lake Sibaya.
Website | Email | 035 474 1473
Operators in the Area
Thonga Beach Lodge
Luxury lodge set in a secluded dune forest with stunning coastal views. Situated only metres from the beach and a 25 minute drive from Lake Sibaya, Thonga Beach Lodge is nestled into beautiful coastal dune forest above secluded Mabibi Bay with sweeping views of the beach below. The thatched bush suites provide guest privacy and were carefully constructed to ensure minimal impact on the environment.
Activities OfferedGuided Walks
Kayaking
Scuba Diving
Turtle Tours
Rocktail Camp
Rocktail Bay is considered one of the premier dive sites in South Africa, with pristine coral reefs that only Rocktail Beach Camp guests have access to. There is a fully accredited dive centre and diving operation, Mokarran Dive Charters, which offers training and excursions. With the beach a brisk 20-minute walk from the camp, there are plenty of seaside adventures to be experienced. Rocktail is set a bit inland, in the lush Coastal Forest covering the ancient coastal dunes.
Activities OfferedScuba Diving
Turtle Tours
