Situated in the heart of the greater St Lucia Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mabibi is approximately 25 kilometres (16 miles) north of Sodwana Bay and close to the Mozambique border. A pristine, underdeveloped beach on the Maputaland coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Mabibi is a subtropical ocean paradise. A magical place of unspoilt beaches, coastal forests, grasslands and shimmering lakes, its crystal-clear, warm waters offer leisurely swimming, amazing snorkelling on beautiful coral reefs and spectacular scuba diving.
Thonga Beach Lodge is set amongst the foliage of a lush coastal forest above a secluded bay, just metres from the beach. Spacious suites are hidden in the dune forest and raised on wooden stilts. All have private balconies and ensuite bathrooms.
Guests can swim, soak up the views from the sitting room or sip on cocktails at the “ocean” bar. A dining area, which opens onto a veranda, serves sumptuous meals. As a special treat, guests can opt to dine by candlelight on the beach. Thonga Beach Lodge offers snorkelling, scuba diving, forest walks, turtle tours, fishing and birdwatching. Open-ocean adventures include swimming with dolphins, and snorkelling with manta rays and giant turtles. Lake Sibaya, Southern Africa’s largest freshwater lake, is located nearby. Sip sundowners on its shores or explore by guided kayak, with the great possibility of spotting hippo and crocodiles en route.
What we love about Thonga Beach Lodge
- Wake up in the morning and bound into the ocean to explore some of the exquisite dive sites near the lodge.
- Indulge in the seafood braai and buffet — prawns, crayfish, whole fish… you name it! Be sure to try the divine Amarula tiramisu for dessert.
- Room 12 has a secret butterfly garden that’s begging to be explored!
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