Umzumbe is a seaside resort situated at the mouth of the Mzumbe River (bad kraal) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The name of the river is derived from a band of Hlongwa cannibals who occupied the valley. The Hlongwa was almost wiped out by the Zulu king Shaka in 1828.

Etymology

Umzumbe is situated south of the mouth of the Mzumbe River, from which it takes its name; of Zulu origin, it has been explained as meaning ‘the dangerous river’, ‘the winding river’ and ‘wild bean river’. The form uMzumbe has been approved.

Geography

Umzumbe lies on the mouth of the Mzumbe River some 5 km south-west of Hibberdene and lies just north of the small seaside village of Pumula. Furthermore, it is situated 16 km north of Port Shepstone, the administrative centre of the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast and 98 km south-west of Durban. It is situated on the R102 between Hibberdene to the north and Melville to the south.

Recreational areas

Umzumbe has one beach, Umzumbe Beach, which has been accredited as a Blue Flag Beach. Nearby and larger beaches within the Lower South Coast include Hibberdene, Ramsgate, St Michael's-on-Sea, Uvongo, Margate and Marina Beach. Another recreational area is the Umzumbe Surf Camp.

Spearfishing

Spearfishing is popular in Umzumbe as the Umzumbe point is the most prominent tip south of Hibberdene. It is a prime area for garrick and brusher.