Struisbaai Main Beach, Coney Glen Beach and Sardinia Bay are among the highest rated family beaches in South Africa, according to a new analysis of Google reviews.
The study looked at 162 655 Google reviews across 119 South African beaches. It was carried out by SEO Backlinks, The South African reported.
The data came from Google Maps listings collected on 5 October 2026. Only beaches with at least 200 reviews were included in the ranking.
Struisbaai Main Beach in the Western Cape shared second place in the national ranking. It tied with Robberg 5 Beach and Keurbooms Beach, but had far more reviews than both.
Visitors praised its long sandy beach and fairly warm water. The beach has parking and nearby facilities. Visitor information describes it as suitable for young children.
Coney Glen Beach in Knysna came fifth in the national ranking with a score of 4.73 stars. It has picnic areas and parking, which can help families travelling with children.
Sardinia Bay in Gqeberha was ranked sixth in the country. It scored 4.72 stars from more than 1 100 Google reviews.
It was one of the most reviewed beaches in the national top 10. It also gives families on the Eastern Cape coast a highly rated choice, as Western Cape beaches lead most of the list.
Bakoven Beach is small but scored 4.71 stars from more than 1 100 reviews. Large rocks and a sheltered setting create calmer patches of water, which many reviewers mentioned.
Llandudno had more than 3 000 Google reviews, one of the highest counts in the ranking. It still kept an average of 4.71 stars.
The beach is known for its granite boulders. It has Blue Flag status for the 2026/27 season and lifesaving services during the relevant season.
The report said families should note that Llandudno has little shade. Some paths down to the sand also involve steps.
Pringle Bay recorded 4.71 stars from 898 reviews. It is known for its wide sandy stretches and mountain views, and offers a quieter outing away from the big city beaches.
The report said a Google rating cannot show whether a beach is safe for swimming. It also cannot show whether lifeguards will be on duty or how clean the water is.
Parents were advised to check current conditions before letting children into the water. Families should also look for lifeguarded swimming areas and follow any warnings or signs at the beach.
The ratings are based on the October 2026 analysis. They can change as visitors submit new Google reviews.
Source: this article is based on reporting by The South African. Image: The South African. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice News desk. See our Editorial Standards.
Kgomotso Maake covers news and politics for Tzaneen Voice. Kgomotso reports on government, Parliament, municipalities, courts, crime and service delivery across South Africa, with a close eye on how national decisions reach towns like Tzaneen and the wider Limpopo province. Stories are written in plain English and focus on the facts: who made the decision, what it means, and what happens next.