South Africa is blessed with an abundance of blue-flag beaches and Brenton Beach in Knysna is one of them – a long stretch of stunning white sand with the warm Indian Ocean on one side and the iconic and aromatic fynbos-covered dunes on the other.

The Brentonians are unshakable in their faith that Brenton Beach is one of, if not the most wonderful beaches in the world. It covers a magnificent 5km stretch from Brenton on Sea to Buffels Bay on the other side of the spectacular Knysna Western Heads in South Africa’s Western province.

With designated safe-swim-spots (to avoid the rip tides) in the ocean along the way, photographic opportunities galore, rocks to clamber on, and small pools in which to cool off, an easy stroll at low tide - with the promise of a delicious lunch or equally scrumptious ice-creams at the end - is unbeatable. Of course, you could have lunch AND ice-creams if you want! If you need a longer pause along the way, Castle Rock is a popular place to fish for cob.

You could of course not walk anywhere, and simply spread your towel on one of the loveliest beaches around, lie back, bask in the sun, and read a good book. And who could blame you?