Skip Mauritius — This New KZN Beach‑&‑Safari Escape Is Set to Steal the Show in 2026
Last Updated on: 20th August 2025, 04:24 pm
A first‑of‑its‑kind resort is taking shape on South Africa’s Dolphin Coast — and it’s built for families who want both Indian Ocean bliss and Big‑Five thrills.
Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari has confirmed a July 2026 opening, with bookings set to go live in October 2025.
The beach resort sits just north of Durban (about a 30‑minute transfer from King Shaka International Airport) and pairs seamlessly with the brand’s new Mpilo Safari Lodge for a dual itinerary that flips between wave‑taming and wildlife.
Why it matters for luxury family travel
Club Med’s formula here isn’t just sun‑loungers. Expect a surf school from age 6, multiple pools, padel, sailing, and the brand’s signature activities — wrapped into a polished, high‑touch, all‑inclusive package that removes mental load for parents.
The project is also being flagged for sustainability targets (Green Globe ambitions, 4‑Star Green Star design), part of a wider shift toward guilt‑free indulgence.
Unique insights
This location could redraw family holiday maps for Southern Africans who typically default to Mauritius or the Garden Route.
For international travelers, it offers a rare two‑stop combo without complicated logistics: oceanfront days, then a private‑reserve safari under the same umbrella brand — a persuasive value proposition versus piecing trips together independently.
With KZN’s subtropical climate, the July launch also syncs with European school holidays, making it especially appealing for long-haul planners.
Our Take
We love this for luxe families who crave ease without compromise. The dual‑stay concept hits that sweet spot: salt‑spray mornings, safari sunsets, zero planning friction.
I grew up in this part of the country and know how magical the setting can be, especially on this part of the coast.
If Club Med nails the service and crowd control, this could become the family flagship in Southern Africa.
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