Umhlanga Rocks
Edit SpotAbout
Umhlanga Rocks was one of the first shark-infested spots to benefit from protective nets in the 1960s, and to this day serious attacks have been dramatically reduced. However, recent reports, including a National Geographic story, reveal that the Natal Sharks Board (the organization that oversees the nets) is rethinking its policy. The underwater barriers do keep out great whites, bulls, and tiger sharks—but they are indiscriminate, killing a number of harmless creatures, too, including dolphins, rays and turtles.
Atmosphere:
When its good, it's ok.
Additional Info:
Ruined Since the storms 2 years ago, don't hold your breadth for good surf although can get fun and the town a great place to base yourself for surf trips up and down the coast.
Location
Loading...Access
Just north of Durban. Along the M4, take the Umhlanga off ramp and drive down the beach.
| Walk | Instant access (<5 min) |
|---|---|
| Public access | Yes |
| 4x4 required | Unknown |
| Boat required | Unknown |
Wave Characteristics
| Type | Reef (rocky) |
|---|---|
| Direction | Right and left |
| Bottom | Reef (coral, sharp rocks etc.) with sand |
| Power | Hollow, Fast, Fun |
| Frequency | Regular (100 days/year) |
| Normal length | Short (<50m) |
| Good day length | Normal (50 to 150m) |
Ideal Conditions
| Wind direction | NorthWest |
|---|---|
| Swell direction | SouthWest, South, SouthEast, East, NorthEast |
| Swell size | Less than 3ft - 6ft+ |
| Tide | All tides |
| Tide movement | Rising tide |
Crowd
| Week | Empty |
|---|---|
| Weekend | Few surfers |
Dangers
Rocks, Sharks
Videos
None
Nearby spots
0.10 miles away
| Direction: | Right and left |
| Bottom: | Don't know |
| Frequency: | Very consistent (150+ days/year) |
0.81 miles away
| Direction: | Right and left |
| Bottom: | Sandy with rock |
| Frequency: | Regular (100 days/year) |
1.31 miles away
| Direction: | Right and left |
| Bottom: | Sandy with rock |
| Frequency: | Don't know |