5 of South Africa�s Best Beaches Author ANN GADD has travelled to over 400 beaches around the coast of South Africa photographing and doing research for her book Life�s a Beach. Here is her take on some of South Africa�s best beaches:

1. Best Overall Beach: Kenton-on-Sea, Eastern Cape

Kenton has loads to offer � For paddling Middle Beach on a low-tide, the stunning natural Mermaid�s Pool with its interesting rock formations, and Shelly Beach, where a trek over sand dunes rewards you with a secluded, turquoise bay and two rivers for water sport activities.

2. Best for Sundowners: Strandloper Bar, Langebaan, West Coast

For sheer Robinson Crusoe vibe, head to the bar at the Strandloper restaurant. Sitting (rather uncomfortably) on driftwood benches, with the calm lagoon and massive boulders as scenery, you can almost imagine that you�ve recently been shipwrecked.

info@strandloper.com 083 227 7195, 022 772 2490

3. Best for Scenic Beauty: Cape Vidal, North Coast, KwaZulu-Natal

Long stretches of white sand, turtles, safe, warm-water bathing, boating and the added bonus of being in the IsimangalisoWetland Park World Heritage Site, make this my top choice for sheer, breathtaking beauty.

4. Best for Kids: Boulder�s Beach, Simon�s Town, Western Cape

Boulders to climb, small beaches and the added attraction of penguins and thousands of dassies, make this a lovely beach to entertain littlies.

Entrance fees: R70 per adult, R35 per child (2-11 years).

5. Great for Gourmands: Paternoster, West Coast, Western Cape

It offers an eclectic choice of restaurants in a sleepy, scenic village. The Noisy Oyster, Gaaitjies and The Square Spoon rank as my favourites. Voorstrandt�s view can�t be beaten.

Blikkie Pizzeria has tasty food in the mid to lower price range. There�s fresh fish and slap

chips at On the Rocks, and beer and toasties at the Paternoster Hotel.

For inventive and locally sourced food, head for Oep ve Koep bistro, or Reuben�s to taste the

TV personality�s cuisine.