Club Med confirms opening date for first South Africa beach/safari resort

Club Med has confirmed that a new $100 million resort in South Africa is due to open next summer.

Bookings for the 411-room Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari on KwaZulu-Natal’s north coast will be available from October.

The all-inclusive operator claimed that the venture will be first hotel in the country to offer a dual beach and safari concept, “setting a new benchmark for African hospitality”.

Guests will be able to combine a stay with a trip to Mpilo Safari Lodge, a new game lodge located in a private 18,000 hectare reserve in Zululand that is home to the ‘Big Five’. 

A short flight or drive from the beach resort, the lodge will feature 75 premium tents. 

The first Club Med property in South Africa north of Durban will come after nearly two years of construction work when it opens in July 2026. 

Once operational, the resort is expected to create 800 direct jobs and more than 1,500 indirect opportunities, in a boost to the local economy.

Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari will be home to a surf school with several lessons a day provided by professionals and open to children aged six and up. 

Other activities will include watersports such as snorkelling, sailing and diving, plus gravel biking, padel courts, and Club Med’s signature flying trapeze. 

A ‘zen zone’ for adult relaxation, a spa and yoga school will also feature.

Club Med president Henri Giscard d’Estaing said: “Ever since it was founded in 1950, Club Med has always been a pioneer in exploring and establishing resorts in extraordinary places. 

"Our new project seeks to create value for the local communities and enhance the international appeal of the magnificent province of KwaZulu-Natal.”

Murray Collins chief executive of partner Collins Residential added: “Our vision is to celebrate South Africa’s rich natural heritage in every experience and every trip here. 

“Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari will be a shining example of this desire to combine authenticity, hospitality and regional development.”