Aliwal Shoal – A Premier Dive Site for Shark Lovers and Scuba Enthusiasts
For scuba divers and shark enthusiasts, Aliwal Shoal is a must-visit destination off the KwaZulu-Natal coast. Located just five kilometres from shore near the town of Umkomaas, this rocky reef is teeming with vibrant marine life. Soft and hard corals, sponges, starfish, and a dazzling array of tropical and subtropical reef fish create a colorful underwater world.
Aliwal Shoal is famous for its resident ragged…
Aliwal Shoal – A Premier Dive Site for Shark Lovers and Scuba Enthusiasts
For scuba divers and shark enthusiasts, Aliwal Shoal is a must-visit destination off the KwaZulu-Natal coast. Located just five kilometres from shore near the town of Umkomaas, this rocky reef is teeming with vibrant marine life. Soft and hard corals, sponges, starfish, and a dazzling array of tropical and subtropical reef fish create a colorful underwater world.
Aliwal Shoal is famous for its resident ragged tooth sharks and tiger sharks, while lucky divers may also spot majestic whale sharks, graceful manta rays, and elusive sunfish. Two historic shipwrecks near the reef add thrilling dive options for all skill levels.
Diving trips launch daily from Umkomaas, only a 35-minute drive from Durban. Operators cater to everyone—from certified divers exploring different reef sections and wrecks at various depths, to non-divers enjoying close encounters from the safety of a floating shark cage. Above water, watch for dolphins, whales, sharks, and curious seabirds in this rich marine environment.
Aliwal Shoal offers excellent diving year-round in its warm subtropical waters. Winters bring hundreds of blacktip and ragged tooth sharks, making it an especially exciting season for shark sightings.
Make sure to include Aliwal Shoal and Umkomaas on your KwaZulu-Natal itinerary to experience one of South Africa’s top marine adventures.
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