Top Getaway Spots in South Africa Locals Love

When South Africans want to unwind, they know exactly where to go. It’s not always the flashy resorts or the picture-perfect spots seen in tourism ads. Sometimes, it’s the hidden beaches, the quiet mountain cabins, and the family-run wine farm down the road that attract most people. Here’s a look at some of the local favourites—places South Africans return to again and again for the peace, beauty, and simplicity they offer.

Clarens, Free State

This small town at the foot of the Maluti Mountains is where people go to breathe. Locals love the crisp winters, the cosy fireplaces, the sandstone cliffs—and the stillness that gives your mind room to breathe. You’ll find quirky art galleries, weekend markets, and craft beer brewed on-site at Clarens Brewery. It’s not fancy, and that’s exactly why it feels just right.

Paternoster, West Coast

Paternoster isn’t about big hotels or beach bars. It’s about barefoot walks on beautiful beaches, morning coffee overlooking the waves, and fresh crayfish straight from the ocean. Locals love that it hasn’t tried to turn into Clifton. It’s raw, real, and the seafood feasts are unforgettable.

Drakensberg, KZN & Eastern Cape

The ‘Berg isn’t just for hikers (though the hiking trails are spectacular). It’s also a favourite for families, and anyone wanting to wake up with a view that stops time. Whether it’s Champagne Valley, Cathedral Peak, or Hogsback further south, you’ll find log cabins, horse rides, and stars so clear they feel close enough to touch. It’s the dramatic mountains, the wide-open spaces, and the morning mist that make the ‘Berg unforgettable.

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Cederberg, Western Cape

This place feels like pure magic. Think orange cliffs, ancient San rock art, and night skies so full of stars they look photoshopped. Locals love the Cederberg for its hiking trails, swimming holes, and the rare chance to truly unplug for a few days. With its ancient rock formations and rich rooibos heritage, the Cederberg holds just as much fascination for visitors as it does for locals.

Knysna & Wilderness, Garden Route

Sure, the Garden Route is no secret. But locals still have their go-to spots—Knysna is all about oysters, forest walks, and lagoon views. Wilderness is made for paragliding, canoeing, and quiet beach days. There’s a reason people end up moving here “for a year” and never leave. With peaceful lagoons, slow drives, and forest trails, it’s easy to see why visitors fall in love with this stretch.

Robertson Wine Valley

Everyone talks about Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, but locals in the know head to Robertson. It’s relaxed, less polished, and all the better for it. Think wine tastings with no pretense, farm-style breakfasts, and hot springs nearby if you’re in the mood to soak. What makes Robertson special is that it’s still under the radar, offering a slower pace and a deeply serene atmosphere.

Final Thought

If you ask a South African about their top getaway spots, you’ll hear a dozen answers. Chances are, it’s somewhere filled with memori—where they watched the sunset with a beer in hand, took their dog on a muddy trail, or found a quiet corner of the country that just felt right. And maybe that’s the whole point of travel after all.