Who doesn’t love a road trip followed by awesome surfing? Here’s my pick of the best surf spots in Southern Africa that you would love to go on a road trip for.
Elands Bay on the West Coast
Elands Bay has a perfect left-hand point break with rides so long your arms will feel like noodles after you’ve paddled back out. With this perfection comes crowds and kite boarders, but there’s still the possibility of “˜all-time’ waves. It’s best surfed in summer when the southerly winds blow.
Contact
Elandsbay Backpacker’s
Tel 022-972-1567
Victoria Bay
Steep tree-lined hills and the open ocean surround the holiday nook of Victoria Bay. The campsite that touches the beach is an ideal launching pad to hit the right-hand point or beach breaks. As it’s in such a serene location, the vibes are extra chilled.
Contact
Victoria Bay Caravan Park
Tel 044-889-0081
Mdumbi, Wild Transkei
Mdumbi is wild Transkei at its best. The entry is through a narrow gully in the rocks and the paddle out can be daunting as this seriously good right-hander breaks along river-mouth sandbanks. If the big fish don’t get you, expect long rides and loads of fun.
Contact
Mdumbi Backpackers
Cell 083-461-1834
Jeffreys Bay
Jeffreys Bay needs no introduction; it’s the jewel in South Africa’s surfing crown. When conditions are right, a wave can run for over a kilometre and experienced surfers can ride from Impossibles at the top, through Supertubes and onto the Point. It is no wonder it’s a stop on the ASP (Association of Surfing Professionals) World Tour. Winter is the best time to catch J-Bay cranking, while Cape St Francis around the corner offers more options.
Contact
Jeffreys Bay Backpackers
Tel 042-293-1379
Ponto do Ouro, Mozambique
Pack your 4×4 and follow the swell up the coast to Ponta do Ouro (Point of Gold) on the southernmost border of Mozambique. Board shorts and bikinis will see you through a session in this right-hand point break’s balmy water. It can be fickle and has occasional rip currents, but is often magical – especially when you find yourself surfing with dolphins.
Contact
Dolphin Encountours Beach Camp, Mozambique Connection
Tel 011-803-4185,
Surf report
Check out www.wavescape.co.za.
See the pros in action
Don’t miss the Billabong Pro in J-Bay from 15 to 25 July.
