Umngazi River Bungalows is located right in the heart of the Wild Coast, not far from the town of Port St John where the Mzimvubu River makes its broad way through tropical forest to the sea. The location of Umngazi is the real draw, on the shore of a lagoon backed up behind a gorgeous sliver of bright white sand. The placid lagoon shore is contrasted by the surf that pounds the opposite side of the sand bar, the Indian Ocean in full flight. Accommodation is in relatively simple thatched cottages, but you come here for the activities and the setting. Bird life is prolific and the rivers teem with fish: guided tours and experienced local ghillies help you make the most of this natural bounty. There are canoeing trips on offer to the nearby mangroves, and a boat runs across the lagoon to the beach throughout the day. Umngazi is one of the best destinations in South Africa for families: there are play rooms, jungle gyms, a children’s dining room and a nanny service if you want to get away from it all. This does mean that Umngazi rings to the sound of happy children; thoughtfully there are areas of the considerable grounds that are kid-free zones, so you can escape if you feel the need!