Thompson's Bay Hole in the Wall
Discover the iconic Hole in the Wall and a crystal-clear tidal pool at Thompsons Bay, a stunning coastal gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safe passage & exploration
Thompson's Bay Hole in the Wall
Best Time
Safe passage & exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the iconic Hole in the Wall and a crystal-clear tidal pool at Thompsons Bay, a stunning coastal gem.
"A treasure on the KZN coast, offering a safe swim and an adventurous walk through a natural wonder."
🎯 Check the Tides!
Crucial for safe passage through the Hole in the Wall and accessing the hidden beach.
🚗 Park Smartly
Use 'Thompsons Bay Tidal Pool parking' on Oceans Drive, not direct 'Hole in the Wall' searches.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Hole in the Wall
Thompsons Bay
A natural rock archway leading to a secluded beach. An adventurous walk for stunning coastal views.
+1Crystal-Clear Tidal Pool
Thompsons Bay Beach
A safe and beautiful spot for swimming, often teeming with marine life and coral. Lifeguards are sometimes on duty.
+1
Hidden Beach Adventure
Beyond the Hole in the Wall
Discover a secluded sandy cove accessible only by navigating through the Hole in the Wall.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Hole in the Wall
Navigating to Thompsons Bay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check the Tides!
Crucial for safe passage through the Hole in the Wall and accessing the hidden beach. +1
🚗 Park Smartly
Use 'Thompsons Bay Tidal Pool parking' on Oceans Drive, not direct 'Hole in the Wall' searches.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The rocky paths require good footwear for a comfortable and safe exploration.
👨👩👧👦 Kids & Heights
Be mindful of heights and keep a close eye on children, especially when paths narrow.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check the Tides!
Crucial for safe passage through the Hole in the Wall and accessing the hidden beach. +1
🚗 Park Smartly
Use 'Thompsons Bay Tidal Pool parking' on Oceans Drive, not direct 'Hole in the Wall' searches.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The rocky paths require good footwear for a comfortable and safe exploration.
👨👩👧👦 Kids & Heights
Be mindful of heights and keep a close eye on children, especially when paths narrow.
📸 Sunrise Magic
Winter sunrises offer breathtaking views through the Hole in the Wall.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the natural beauty of Thompsons Bay, particularly the unique Hole in the Wall and the pristine tidal pool teeming with marine life. It's considered a hidden gem offering a safe and enjoyable coastal experience, though careful planning around tides and parking is advised.
"This was such a cool stop along our Balito day out. Definitely worth a go and see. Also, the total pool is really beautiful with all its coral and sea life."
Rivonia Naidu-Hoffmeester
"This place is beautiful. I was born and raised in South Africa and I can't believe I've never visited this place. It has a massive tidal Pool were you can safely swim, with a lifeguard on duty."
Jonathan Govender
"Visiting the KZN Ballito “hole in the wall” is a treasure. There is no vehicle access and don’t follow google maps for hole in the wall. Rather search for Thompsons Bay Tidal Pool parking. Look for a well attended parking area between 91-93 Oceans Drive where there is a safe foot path access. There’s good parking there with well attended security. Once you have parked, you can walk down the stairs on the foot access path. At the bottom of the stairs turn right and head towards the tidal pool. Walk through the Thompsons Bay building along the title pool and you will come to the hole in the wall. You can go through the hole in the wall and walk along a rocky path above the waves. Just make sure that you watch the tidal charts to ensure that you have low tide access. It’s well worth trying to visit during the sunrise in the winter. You can get a beautiful view of the sun with some light coming through the hole. Highly recommended."
Kerry Margaret Wiens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Navigate to 'Thompsons Bay Tidal Pool parking' on Oceans Drive (between 91-93) for secure parking and a safe footpath. Avoid direct searches for 'Hole in the Wall' as they can be misleading.
Yes, there is well-attended parking available at the Thompsons Bay Tidal Pool entrance on Oceans Drive.
No, vehicle access is not permitted directly to the Hole in the Wall. You'll need to park and walk.
From the parking, walk down the stairs on the footpath, turn right towards the tidal pool, walk along it, and you'll reach the Hole in the Wall.
Yes, Thompson's Bay is located in Shaka's Rock, just outside Ballito, about a 45-minute drive from Durban.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific tickets required for entry to Thompson's Bay or the Hole in the Wall. Parking may have a fee.
Thompson's Bay is generally accessible during daylight hours. The tidal pool may have lifeguard supervision during specific times.
Typically, there is no separate entrance fee for the tidal pool itself, but parking fees might apply.
It's best to visit during low tide for safe access and exploration. Check tidal charts before your visit.
The main restriction is to be mindful of the tides. Also, keep a close eye on children due to the rocky terrain and potential heights.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the tidal pool, explore the Hole in the Wall, discover a hidden beach, and enjoy the scenic coastal views.
The tidal pool is generally safe for swimming, often with clear water and sometimes a lifeguard on duty.
The tidal pool is known for its coral and various sea life, making it great for observing marine biodiversity.
It's a short walk, but requires some agility and awareness of the rocky path. Not recommended for those with a severe fear of heights.
Yes, you can walk along a rocky path above the waves after passing through the Hole in the Wall, but be cautious.
📸 📸 Photography
The Hole in the Wall itself, the tidal pool with its marine life, and the hidden beach offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Winter sunrises provide beautiful light filtering through the Hole in the Wall, creating stunning shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Hole in the Wall and the coastline. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for tidal pool shots.
Shooting from the rocky path looking back at the Hole in the Wall, or from the beach looking out through it, are popular.
Drone regulations vary; check local bylaws before flying. However, ground-level photography is highly rewarding.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When exploring the Hole in the Wall, parents should be mindful of potential heights and narrow paths. Keeping a close eye on children and considering holding them at times is recommended for their safety, especially during low tide when the path can be narrower.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the rock formations and the expansive coastline. A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended for capturing the underwater world of the tidal pool.
+1 The hidden beach beyond the Hole in the Wall also presents a more secluded and picturesque backdrop. 🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
+1Combine this with a swim in the tidal pool and the discovery of the hidden beach, and you have a perfect mini-adventure. Remember to check the tide times for the safest and most rewarding exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Hole in the Wall
+1The best time to experience the Hole in the Wall is during low tide. This ensures safe passage through the arch and allows for exploration of the rocky paths that hug the coastline. Many visitors recommend timing your visit with the tides to fully appreciate the unique landscape.
For photographers, the Hole in the Wall offers dramatic shots, especially during sunrise. The way the light filters through the arch can create a magical effect, making it a sought-after spot for capturing stunning coastal scenery.
Exploring Thompsons Bay Tidal Pool
+1This tidal pool is a vibrant microcosm of marine life. Visitors often spot various types of coral and small fish, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling or simply observing the underwater world. Some reviews mention the presence of lifeguards, adding an extra layer of security for swimmers.
The tidal pool is easily accessible from the main beach area and is a fantastic spot for families. It provides a calm environment for children to play and swim, while adults can relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal surroundings.
+1Navigating Your Visit: Parking and Access
This designated parking area offers secure parking with attended security, providing peace of mind for visitors. From here, a safe footpath with stairs leads down to the beach and the attractions. Follow the path towards the tidal pool, walk along its edge, and you'll soon find yourself at the entrance to the Hole in the Wall.
It's important to note that there is no direct vehicle access to the Hole in the Wall itself. The journey involves a pleasant walk from the parking, making it an integral part of the overall experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit