North Coast, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for North Coast, South Africa? If you're planning to go to North Coast, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to North Coast, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in North Coast, South Africa, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for North Coast, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in North Coast, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for North Coast, South Africa by month

January

January in North Coast is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the correct kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

If you visit North Coast during February, you might find that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

March

If you visit North Coast during March, you might find that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in North Coast is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

May

May in North Coast is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June here is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

Traveling to North Coast in July, you will notice that it is mild and dry with little rain. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

August

August in North Coast is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to find the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

September

If you vacation in North Coast during September, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you get the necessary type. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

October in North Coast is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 10s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to get the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you vacation in North Coast during November, you will probably notice that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

December

December in North Coast is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Coast may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to get the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

What to do in North Coast, South Africa

Located in KwaZulu-Natal, the North Coast of South Africa is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, scenic drives, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're a beach lover, nature enthusiast or an adventure seeker, the North Coast has something to offer. In this article, we'll highlight the top tourist attractions in the area that every visitor should not miss.

1. The Dolphin Coast Beaches

The Dolphin Coast beaches are a must-see attraction when visiting the North Coast. The beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and palm trees that sway in the breeze. The shorelines stretch for kilometres along the coast, and you will find plenty of activities to do such as swimming, surfing, and fishing. The top Dolphin Coast beaches include Ballito and Salt Rock beaches, which are also known as surfing spots at high tide, and Zinkwazi Beach, which is great for jet-skiing and kiteboarding.

2. Umfolozi Game Reserve

For those who love nature and wildlife, Umfolozi Game Reserve is a must-visit attraction on the North Coast. Located in Hluhluwe, the reserve is home to a vast array of wildlife, including the famous "Big Five" - elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. Visitors can take part in guided game drives and walking safaris, which are a great way to explore the various habitats and observe the animals in their natural environment.

3. Shakaland Village

Shakaland is a traditional Zulu village that gives visitors a glimpse into the rich culture of the Zulu people. Located in Eshowe, Shakaland offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional Zulu dances, music, and cuisine. Visitors can also visit the village's kraals, which are traditional Zulu homes, and learn about the traditions and way of life of the Zulu people.

4. The Lighthouse at Umhlanga Rocks

The Umhlanga Rocks lighthouse is an iconic landmark on the North Coast and offers scenic views of the Indian Ocean. The lighthouse was built in 1954 and is open to visitors who can climb up its tower for an incredible panoramic view of the coastline. The area around the lighthouse is a popular spot for a stroll or picnic and is particularly beautiful at sunset.

5. The KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board

The KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board is a conservation organization that protects ocean users from sharks along the coastline. Visitors can take part in guided tours of the board's headquarters, where they can learn about the board's research, conservation efforts, and safety measures. There is also a shark museum on the premises, where visitors can learn about the different species of sharks found in the area.

In summary, the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal has plenty of attractions that are perfect for any visitor. From beautiful beaches to wildlife reserves, traditional villages to iconic lighthouses, the North Coast has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and head to the North Coast for an unforgettable South African adventure.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Sikachi-Alyan, Russia, Sospel, France, Hisor, Tajikistan, Cattaraugus County, New York, United States of America, Foppolo, Italy, Guimarães, Portugal, Somwarpet, India, Wayne, New Jersey, United States of America, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan, United States of America, Buckhorn, Lakefield and Stoney Lake, Ontario, Canada, and Gătaia, Romania.