Five kilometres offshore from Umkomaas lies the internationally-renowned Aliwal Shoal - a fossilised sand dune of sponges, soft and hard coral - first spotted in 1849 but not adequately highlighted until after it sank the steamer Nebo in 1884. This wreck was joined almost a century later by that of the Produce, and together they add a significantly interesting dimension to this kilometre-long underwater wonderland. Aliwal Shoal attracts not only a wide variety of warm - and cold- water fish, but also many Ragged-Tooth sharks an awe- inspiring and surprisingly safe adventure! There has not been a single recorded shark attack on a scuba diver here, and the number of dive companies, plus underwater- themed accommodation, restaurants and taverns bear witness to Aliwal Shoal's popularity.

Umkomaas is not unexpectedly a bountiful line-fishing locale, too, and away from the briny its challenging, heavily wooded and bunkered 5479m golf course was designed specifically to test those who boast a low handicap. Just south of the town is a sheltered surfing and bathing beach at Widenham, followed by the former German-American mission of Clansthal...with its rail station, well-situated caravan park and up- market holiday cottages right on the beach. At the southern tip of this beach is Green Point...our coast's original (but obviously no longer) 'Secret Spot' for surfers who travel the world in search of uncrowded point breaks where the waves peel off in unison for hundreds of metres at a time. As with all such 'unofficial' surfing destinations along out coastline, there are no shark nets or lifeguards...and belong only in the realm of experienced wave-riders. The Green Point lighthouse is a National Monument and much sought- after attraction for those interested in a different aspect of the ocean.

Accommodation in Umkomaas

• Amakhulu Central Reservations
  Merl offers a very friendly and professional service to book accommodation in South Africa. She specializes in the Drakensberg and Wild Coast regions.
  
• Accommodation in Umkomaas
  This website is the best I have yet come across for accommodation in South Africa. You communicate directly with the accommodation establishment and the entire booking is carried out online.