North Sand Bluff Lighthouse – Port Edward, KwaZulu Natal

The Port Edward Lighthouse is officially named the North Sand Bluff Lighthouse. It stands at 24 24 metres and is one of the more recent lighthouses, having been built in 1968. The red and white tower lighthouse was rebuilt again in 1999.

It is sad that there was a time when visitors to the lighthouse could make use of the coffee shop there and then still climb up the 5 storeys of spiralling stairs inside the lighthouse to take in splendid views.

Unfortunately, the Port Edward Lighthouse is no longer open to the public, even though it is still operational. The lighthouse has two beams which are visible for up to 40 km out to sea.. You can still view the exterior from the fence line if you’d like to take pictures of this historic landmark.

Even though this particular lighthouse doesn’t provide accommodation, the presence of a lighthouse can make for a wonderfully romantic getaway, especially if the accommodation offers sweeping ocean views, dramatic sunsets and the sound of waves. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or you’re looking for family accommodation, there is something magical about escaping to a coastal retreat where you can slow down, enjoy each other’s company and watch the sea together.

The next best thing is to stay in accommodation close to a lighthouse. The Lighthouse Inn offers six self-catering units that are self-contained, and you can spot the lighthouse from this venue. The cool thing about this accommodation too is that there is a garden gate with a pathway that takes you to a private beach, but within walking distance to the main beach as well.