Kosi Bay Beaches Explored

Over the next few weeks, we will explore the various beaches of Kosi Bay. I will try my best to guide go to them even though they are all gloriously hidden off the beaten track.

Before we get started you need to keep in mind that Kosi Bay is an area, not a small town. The area is made up of 4 Lakes that meander through an estuary and empty into the warm Indian ocean. The coastline stretches for kilometers and we will be taking you to some of the better know beaches.

Kosi Bay Mouth Beach

Kosi Bay Mouth stretches south of the Mozambican border down to Bhanga Nek.
Here the four Kosi Bay Lakes empty into the ocean via the sandy estuary, creating a unique ecosystem.
The mouth is winged by tall, vegetated dunes. At the mouth you find clear, warm water and an abundance of fish that gives the 
area its name “the aquarium reef” the ideal breeding ground for colourful reef fish. It is a shallow, 
rocky reef that lies within the estuary at the base of eNkovukeni, forested dune that extends upstream for some 120m.
Don't miss snorkeling in the clear shallow rockpools in the ocean. Look out for colourful reef fish, coral, eels and even a sea turtle and rays.
Day entry permits are required when visiting Kosi Bay Mouth. A 4x4 or 2x4 with diff-lock is required to reach the beach.
It is a 2.5km drive from the access gate to Kosi Bay estuary and beach.The route from on top of the high sand dune provides spectacular views of fish trap dotted estuary to the ocean.

There is shaded parking available and car guards to look after your car Newly built braai facilities are available but no toilet facilities. It is advisable to take your own drinking water.
GPS coordinates: 26°53'36.2"S 32°52'38.7"E

Kosi Bay Mouth will keep you busy for days, here are just a few things to try out.
Snorkelling & Swimming  The mouth is a unique breeding ground for marine life and is one of the best places to snorkel. The best and safest time for snorkelling is when high tide sends a rush of warm clean Seawater into the mouth. 
The water in the estuary is shallow, calm, and crystal clear and a perfect swimming spot for families with small children. Snorkelling and swimming in the sea is best at low tide, as rip tides may develop at high tide.

Fishing: Kosi Bay Mouth is well-known for its spectacular fishing. The area has amazing sea fishing, lake fishing and fly-fishing spots.A fishing permit is needed to fish anywhere is South Africa. You can purchase a permit at any SA Post office. 
Night fishing permits can be obtained from the Ezemvelo Office at Kosi Camp at 3rd lake. No fishing in the estuary and actual mouth as they are protected areas.

Canoeing: A guided canoe tour is a very popular activity and a great relaxing excursion to do with the family.You will explore the estuary with a local guide and learn about the area and fish traps.

Fish Trap Tours: A local fisherman will teach the group about the ancient way of Thonga fishing and talk about sustainability of the kraal fishing method. 
You will also get a chance to spear your own fish if you are lucky.

Hiking: Kosi Bay offers a few beautiful hiking trails. All trails are guided as the routes are not marked.Doing 4- 5 Day slackpacking in the area is an absolute hit amongst the growing hiking community.

Things to keep in mind when visiting:
The local community is very proud of the area, lodge, and fish traps, please respect them and the area. A friendly wave at a local fisherman and cattle herder will go a long way.
Do spoil yourself to an extra hand. The guys with the canoes at the mouth are very friendly and the extra income goes a long way. Let them help you over the estuary to the reef if you need it.
It is best to leave valuables like handbags, cameras, and cell phones in vehicles where it is not visible. Do not leave valuables unattended on the beach.
Please be aware of the Stone Fish when snorkelling, they are very well camouflaged and have needle-like spines in their dorsal fins that can deliver a very painful sting and potentially a lethal wound.
The Thonga fish traps are operational, so treat them with respect, please don’t damage or interfere with them. The fish traps are the local community’s livelihood.
Beware of strong currents that may develop at high tide and during spring tide. 
Always identify the direction and speed of the current before getting into the water. If uncertain rather only snorkel where you can stand.
It is the ocean so be sensible.

This this handy advice I wrap up the trip to Kos Bay Mouth, as you can see it is a gem not to miss out on.