For the second year in a row, Thonga Beach Lodge has been recognised as South Africa’s Leading Beach Hotel at the 32nd annual World Travel Awards. This accolade celebrates the lodge’s commitment to authentic eco-luxury, conservation leadership, and meaningful community empowerment.
Tucked away on the remote shores of Mabibi in the UNESCO-listed iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Thonga Beach Lodge offers one of life’s rarest luxuries: true escape. Accessible only by 4×4, it’s perched above a pristine coastal dune forest, with wooden walkways leading to the unspoilt Indian Ocean. Just a short drive from Lake Sibaya—South Africa’s largest freshwater lake—the lodge’s twelve thatched eco-suites immerse guests in nature without sacrificing comfort.
What Sets Thonga Beach Lodge Apart
-
Marine Conservation Experiences
Daily guided snorkelling and scuba diving on untouched coral reefs, seasonal turtle tracking drives, and beach walks offer guests a front-row seat to marine life. The lodge integrates conservation education into its guest experience, building awareness of ocean protection and supporting local marine initiatives. -
Community Empowerment
The majority of staff come from the surrounding Mabibi community, with many having worked at the lodge since its opening. Through the Isibindi Foundation, Thonga supports local education at Mabibi Primary School, youth development, and small business initiatives, fostering lasting, meaningful impact. -
Environmental Stewardship
Conservation levies fund vital turtle monitoring programmes in collaboration with the Oceanographic Research Institute and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority. The lodge also runs marine education programmes, beach cleanups, and local awareness campaigns. -
Thoughtful Eco-Luxury
Free of single-use plastics and designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, Thonga Beach Lodge offers low-impact adventures via its “Beach Life Hub,” from guided forest walks to kayaking on Lake Sibaya. -
Exclusive Location
Positioned above Mabibi Beach within a protected dune forest, the lodge provides rare access to one of South Africa’s most biodiverse and untouched stretches of coastline, all within a World Heritage Site. -
Authentic Local Connections
Expert local guides lead nature-based activities that deepen guests’ understanding of the marine and forest ecosystems while celebrating the cultural heritage of the Thonga people.
“Winning South Africa’s Leading Beach Hotel for a second year is incredibly rewarding,” says Marketing Manager Lucy Cooke. “It reflects not just the beauty of this coastline, but our team’s dedication, and the power of sustainable tourism to uplift both community and environment.”
Thonga Beach Lodge’s achievement is even more meaningful given the strong 2025 shortlist, which included renowned properties such as Birkenhead House, Lekkerwater Beach Lodge at De Hoop, and The Oyster Box.
About Thonga Beach Lodge
Operated by Isibindi Africa Lodges, Thonga Beach Lodge comprises twelve luxurious eco-suites in a coastal dune forest. Guests enjoy personal service, sustainably sourced seafood and produce, and daily adventures such as snorkelling, diving, turtle watching, forest walks, and cultural exchanges with the local community. The lodge is deeply committed to conservation and community upliftment through the Isibindi Foundation.
For reservations, call +27 (0)35 474 1473, email res@isibindi.co.za, or visit www.isibindi.co.za.
