Western Shores


The region northwest of St Lucia Estuary is called the Western Shores, and comprises two stunning lakeside spots, known as Fani’s Island (closed to visitors at the time of research due to drought conditions) and Charters Creek (entrance is off the N2, 18km north of Mtubatuba and 32km south of Hluhluwe), an area of dense coastal forest and grasslands.

A new road provides direct access between St Lucia and Charter’s Creek (a nice lakeside spot for views, but there's not much to do here), and offers excellent leisurely wildlife-drive opportunities up the western side of Lake St Lucia. The drive up the western shore reveals antelope (waterbuck and kukdu in particular), plus the possibility of hippo sightings.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Eastern Shores

5.7 MILES

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3. Mt Tabor Lookout

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Hikers should head to the Mt Tabor lookout, where three trail loops lead to spectacular views of Lake St Lucia and the Indian Ocean. It's about 4km before…

4. Bats Cave

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5. Mission Rocks

7.58 MILES

Mission Rocks is a rugged and rock-covered shoreline known for the rock pools that have a fabulous array of sea life on view during low tide. It's…

6. Cape Vidal

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If you ask anyone in the know what to see in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park they'll most likely suggest Cape Vidal. Some of the forested sand dunes here…

8. Centenary Centre

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The Centenary Centre, a wildlife-holding centre with an attached museum, information centre and excellent craft market, is in the eastern section of…

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