Port Edward Area Profile
Port Edward Area Profile:
Port Edward, nestled at the southernmost tip of KwaZulu-Natal's picturesque Hibiscus Coast, is a tranquil coastal gem. This charming resort town offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting visitors to unwind amidst breathtaking natural beauty. With its pristine beaches, lush forests, and rolling hills, Port Edward embodies the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
The town's strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Hibiscus Coast's hidden treasures. From the majestic Mtamvuma River to the scenic coastal routes, Port Edward serves as a gateway to unspoiled wilderness areas, nature reserves, and quaint coastal villages. Residents and visitors alike can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region, with nearby historical sites and vibrant local markets showcasing the area's unique blend of African and European influences.
Port Edward's economy thrives on a diverse mix of tourism, agriculture, and fishing. The town's infrastructure supports a range of industries, from eco-tourism and hospitality to manufacturing and construction. With major employers like Wild Coast Sun & Casino and the local municipalities, job opportunities abound in this growing coastal hub. Investors will find Port Edward an attractive destination, thanks to its burgeoning tourism sector and development opportunities.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find paradise in Port Edward. The town boasts an impressive array of attractions, including pristine beaches, water sports, and nature reserves like Umtamvuma and Red Desert. Whale watching, hiking trails, and birdwatching offer endless excitement, while the nearby Riverbend Crocodile Park and Pure Venom Snake Farm provide unique wildlife experiences. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at one of several nearby courses, including the renowned Wild Coast Sun Country Club.
Residents of Port Edward enjoy a relaxed lifestyle amidst stunning natural surroundings. The town's well-developed infrastructure ensures access to quality education, healthcare, and shopping. From modern amenities to artisanal markets, Port Edward offers an appealing blend of convenience and small-town charm. With its growing property market, investors can choose from eco-estates, games lodges, small holdings, beachfront homes, holiday rentals, and retirement villages.
Whether seeking a peaceful retreat, an adventure-filled getaway, or a permanent residence, Port Edward has something for everyone. Its captivating blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and modern amenities makes this coastal gem an irresistible destination. As the southernmost pearl on KwaZulu-Natal's Hibiscus Coast, Port Edward shines brightly, inviting all to experience its unique magic.
Location
Located north of the Mtamvuma River, marking the border of KZN and the Eastern Cape.
Population
As of 2022: - Total population: approximately 5,500 residents
- Population growth rate: 2.5% per annum
- Age distribution: 50% under 35 years, 30% between 35-55 years, 20% above 55 years
Economy
- Primary sectors: Tourism, Agriculture (subtropical fruits, sugarcane, and cattle farming), Fishing
- Secondary sectors: Retail, Manufacturing, Construction
- Major employers: Wild Coast Sun & Casino, Local Municipalities, Small businesses, Durban Harbour (jobs in shipping, logistics, and maritime industries)
Climate
- Subtropical climate with mild winters and warm summers- Average temperature:
- Summer (Dec-Feb): High of 28°C (82°F), low of 20°C (68°F)
- Autumn (Mar-May): High of 25°C (77°F), low of 15°C (59°F)
- Winter (Jun-Aug): High of 23°C (73°F), low of 10°C (50°F)
- Spring (Sep-Nov): High of 25°C (77°F), low of 15°C (59°F)
Languages
- Primary languages: isiZulu (45%), English (30%), Afrikaans (15%), isiXhosa (10%)
Shopping Centers
- Galleria Shopping Centre (Amanzimtoti)
- Port Edward Mall - Wild Coast Mall - Local markets and artisanal shops
Golf Courses
- Port Edward Country Club: 9-hole, 18-tee box, par-72
- Wild Coast Sun Country Club: 18-hole, par-70, designed by Robert Trent Jones Junior
- Southbroom Golf Club: 18-hole, par-72, 6100m
- San Lameer Country Club: 18-hole, par-72, 5940m, designed by Gary Player
- Margate Country Club: 18-hole, par-72, 5840m
- Selborne Golf Estate and Country Club: 18-hole, par-72, 6120m
Attractions
- Pristine beaches
- Water sports (Supertube, surfing, fishing)
- Nature reserves (Umtamvuma, Red Desert)
- Wild Coast Sun & Casino (water park, golf course)
- Fishing (Silver Beach, lagoon, river)
- Whale watching (seasonal)
- Hiking trails (Mpenjati Nature Reserve)
- Beach walks
- Birdwatching
- Riverbend Crocodile Park
- Pure Venom Snake Farm
Education
-Southcity Christian College -Creston College -South Coast Academy -Margate Primary -Port Shepstone Primary -Port Shepstone Senior -Port Shepstone High
Healthcare
-Netcare Margate Hospital -Shelly Beach Hospital -Hibiscus Hospital -Port Shepstone Regional Hospital
Property and Lifestyle
- Eco-estates
- Games lodges
- Small holdings
- Beachfront homes
- Holiday rentals
- Retirement villages
- Investment properties (apartments, commercial properties, and development opportunities)
Transportation
- R61 connecting to Port Shepstone and other coastal towns
- Margate Airport (32km)
- Daily shuttle bus services available
Distances
- Port Edward to Wild Coast Sun & Casino: 5 km
- Port Edward to Durban: 160 km (approximately 2 hours)
- Port Edward to Durban Harbour: 170 km (approximately 2.5 hours)
- Port Edward to King Shaka International Airport 156.4 km (approximately 1.5 hours)
Links:
Oribi Gorge https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oribi_Gorge
Mpenjati Nature Reserve https://www.sa-venues.com/game-reserves/mpenjati.php
Riverbend Crocodile Farm https://www.crocodilecrazy.co.za/
Pure Venom Reptile Park https://findsouthcoast.co.za/listing/pure-venom-reptile-park/
Umkobi Beach https://www.sa-venues.com/things-to-do/kwazulunatal/umkobi-beach/
Mallards & Ski-Boat Festival https://www.news24.com/news24/celebrating-success-at-ski-boat-festival-20160713
Barn Swallows https://www.southbroomconservancy.org/barn-swallows
Mac Banana https://www.macbanana.com/
Beavers Creek https://www.beavercreek.co.za/
San Lameer https://www.sanlameer.co.za/
Southbroom Golf Club https://www.southbroomgolfclub.co.za/
Margate Country Club https://www.margatecountryclub.co.za/
Port Shepstone Counrty Club https://pscc.co.za/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwgfm3BhBeEiwAFfxrG77tvf1Iwr1Izil1E1p1CNH0w4orWOWh3I3NwQxYn89FSMYw5b15YBoChjQQAvD_BwE
Wild Coast Sun Country Club https://www.suninternational.com/wild-coast-sun/activities/golf/
Shelly Centre https://shellycentre.co.za/
South Coast Mall https://southcoastmall.co.za/