Set on the South Coast, Pennington is totally transformed during the holiday season when this sleepy town is transformed into a bustling holiday destination. Within easy reach from Durban via the N2, it boasts many perks, from idyllic beaches to being budget-friendly and a paradise for keen golfers and fishing enthusiasts.
Named after a farming family from the 19th centure, Pennington was historically a sugar cane and dairy farming area. These days, it features the 18-hole Umdoni Park Golf Course, a vast swath of unspoilt coastal vegetation, a birding paradise at the Komba Bird Sanctuary and Nkumbane Dam and numerous forest walks – not to mention the wonderful beaches that draw so many holidaymakers every year.
One of the premium resorts in the area is the Selborne Golf Estate, Hotel and Spa – home to another 18-hole golf course, which was rated by Golf Digest magazine as one of the top 100 courses in Southern Africa. There are villas dotted all around this picturesque golf course and a rental division is on offer within this prestigious 80ha eco-estate.
The Umdoni Coast, which Pennington is part of, includes other gems such as Kelso, Sezela and Bazley beaches. Here, various swimming, canoeing and rafting options abound, as well as popular tidal pools and inviting little bays. It is arguably one of the most ideal stretches of family friendly coastline in our country!
Activities galore
Fishing:
– The warm waters of Pennington is ideal for trophy barracuda, garrick and salmon fishing.
– During Easter, it’s time for the annual Couta Classic (one of KZN’s largest fishing competitions).
– Nearby Bazley Beach is an excellent choice for angling and scuba diving.
Water- and other sports
– Kelso Beach has top-notch swells for surfing.
– The coral reefs make this area ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling.
– This is the perfect place for long walks on the beach or horse riding.
Natural appeal
Empisini Nature Reserve
Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve
Umdoni Park
Don’t miss this!
Tee off at Umdoni Park Golf Club or Selborne Golf Estate.
Bird-watching along the South Coast Birding Route.
A lazy day at Bazley, Kelso or Sezela beach.
Surfing.
Sea or rock fishing.
Scuba diving and snorkelling.
Shark cage diving.
Where to stay
The Crimson Sunbird
Botha House
Forest Glen
Palm Tree House
Imphithi Lodge
Pennington Waves
Caravans, campers and simple log cabins: Happy Wanderers Holiday Resort, Corian’s Pennington Caravan Resort, Mac Nicol’s Caravan Park. (Remember: retirees get out-of-season rates.)
Resident’s view:
“We retired here a few years ago because it was a very affordable option, with great golf courses, and our family visit often from Durban because the grandchildren love the beach. It’s a win-win for us.” – Carol Blaine, resident
Words: Riekie Human | Images: Supplied
