Thonga Beach Lodge is the quintessential far-flung beach getaway, tucked away in the coastal forests of wild, beautiful iSimangaliso Wetland Park (formerly Greater St. Lucia), in Maputaland, South Africa. A declared World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso is one of South Africa’s only coastal wilderness reserves, and Thonga Beach Lodge one of its finest remote beach lodges.
Constructed from natural stone, bleached wood and glass, Thonga Beach Lodge is the very definition of barefoot luxury. Its 24 makuti-thatch guest chalets are raised on wooden decks and positioned in the dune forest a few metres from the beach, most with views of the ocean. They have a wonderfully rustic feel, but aren’t lacking in modern comforts—they are fully air-conditioned and beautifully furnished. The public areas are similarly rustic but comfortable, and include a bar and lounge, sea view deck, swimming pool and indoor dining area.
The beach at Thonga is largely unspoilt and offers some of South Africa’s best off-shore diving and snorkelling. Also accessible from the lodge (a 30 min drive) is Lake Sibaya, the largest freshwater lake in South Africa, and the focal point of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Accommodation
Thonga Beach Lodge offers twelve guest chalets, including one honeymoon suite and three family units. All of the rooms are tucked away in the dune forest on the edge of the beach, most with a view of the sea from their private balconies. Constructed largely of natural materials, they sit easily with their natural surrounds, and have been raised above the sands on stilts so as to prevent damage to the dunes.
Inside, the rooms are bright, airy and very spacious, with wide windows to allow in the sunlight and sea breeze. The décor in the bedrooms—woven mats, wicker chairs, makuti thatch—complements the natural building materials, while the natural stone bathrooms add a touch of luxury.
Dining
Meals are served al fresco in the outside dining area, or by candle light on the beach.
Facilities
- Swimming pool
- Lounge
- Dining area
- Bar
Activities
- Snorkelling and scuba diving
- Kayaking on Lake Sibaya
- Sunset cruise
- Guided wilderness walks
- Turtle tracking
- Fishing
- Tsonga cultural experience
Child Policy
Children are welcome. Under 3s stay free of charge. Under 12s are charged at half the adult rate.
There are three family units with two bedrooms each (one twin and one double). Meal times and activities at Thonga Beach Lodge can also be tailored to suit families.
