THE COAST

DURBAN → PORT EDWARD

“Winter is coming” has been a common mantra amongst KZN surfers way before Ned Stark lost his head. Normally muttered under their breath as they shuffle their flip flops around the baking North Beach parking lot, surveying (Fela Kuti works for me) as you watch the daybreak over Durban’s industrial South. Stop at the Umgababa Shell for a cup of mud, bag of peanuts and a banana. Ideally you want eyes on the ocean at first light… either you, or a mate on WhatsApp, to point you towards the designated sand bottomed point break. Keep it convivial with the locals and the other daytrippers. The Coast in winter brings hope to the hopeless and glory to the fearless few who successfully mine these pits. The road is an easy double lane in both directions. If we ever get self-driving cars, this stretch will actually become too easy. I mean imagine climbing in your car and catching another 45 mins shuteye as the AI chauffeur guides you to a secret spot. But I digress. Parking at some of the spots will probably still be a bit sketchy. And what do you do with your electronic key? These are the challenges you’ll need to overcome to enjoy a trip down the Coast.