A new public beach is being unlocked on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, with Tinley North Beach opening after decades of limited access.
Image: Supplied
A new access point to Tinley North Beach on KwaZulu-Natal's North Coast is set to be unveiled later this year following a R6 million infrastructure investment linked to the Club Med South Africa Beach and Safari development.
The upgrades, confirmed by Collins Residential, introduce structured entry points, parking, boardwalks, and safety measures aimed at transforming the historically restricted site into a fully serviced public beach.
The development includes parking for about 30 vehicles, dedicated taxi pick-up and drop-off zones, and a continuous pedestrian route to the beach via a paved walkway and wooden boardwalk. New male and female ablution facilities, viewing areas, and rest spaces have also been constructed.
The new access point, boardwalk and other amenities are set to be completed in time for the Club Med opening, which is expected in July this year.
According to project lead Chris du Toit, the focus extends beyond access alone.
“Developments of this nature need to deliver real, practical value beyond their immediate footprint,” said Chris du Toit.
“In this case, the investment is not only about creating access but about ensuring that access is properly supported with infrastructure, safety measures, and long-term operational commitment that elevates the experience for the public.”
Du Toit added that the project was made possible through collaboration with the local authority.
“Our delivery of all this would not be possible without the partnership and collaboration shown already by the local KwaDukuza Municipality, which is a great example of private and public participation in motion,” he said.
The upgrades form part of efforts to accommodate increased local and international visitation while maintaining environmental standards. A key component includes introducing public lifeguarding services as part of the Blue Flag accreditation process.
“The inclusion of lifeguarding and the pursuit of Blue Flag standards are critical,” du Toit said. “They ensure that as the beach becomes more accessible and more widely used, it is supported by the safety, environmental management, and quality standards expected of a world-class coastal destination.”
KwaDukuza Municipality Mayor Sduduzo Gumede described the project as a significant boost for the region.
“We are fortunate as a municipality to be bordered by the coastline, so it’s imperative we use this to our advantage by looking after it and optimising this natural asset as a drawcard to our region,” he said.
“The opening up to locals and visitors of the Tinley North Beach will be a wonderful addition to our other four Blue Flag status beaches in the area that will undoubtedly be appreciated and utilised by all.”
Gumede said the partnership with Collins Residential had enabled broader public access to a previously limited site.
“Previously, this particular beach was only accessible to a few in our community. Now, in partnership with the Collins Residential team who are executing the agreed-upon beach upgrades, we are able to unlock and bring this hidden gem to all the people of KwaDukuza,” he said.
Environmental rehabilitation measures form part of the development, with informal access routes being replaced by structured pathways and boardwalks to address dune erosion. Stormwater management systems and ongoing maintenance obligations have also been introduced.
Collins Residential said it would maintain the facilities on an ongoing basis, in partnership with KwaDukuza Municipality, to ensure cleanliness, usability, and environmental protection.
The project is expected to reposition Tinley North Beach as a shared coastal asset, with improved safety, accessibility, and long-term sustainability for residents and visitors.
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