This part of the gorgeous KwaZulu-Natal coastline is deservedly popular with holiday-makers looking forward to the sun, beaches and seafood. Long, lazy lunches and sundowners before dinner are the daily highlights and restaurants get packed as the sun sinks below the sea. If you’re heading that way these holidays, these are the restaurants not to miss.

7 Seas Restaurant (Margate)
Come straight from the beach with your wet cozzy and sandy feet, and eat crayfish Thermidor.

The Burlesque Café (Ramsgate)
This is a great place for breakfast, eccentric business lunches and romantic dinners.

C-Bali (Uvongo)
Situated almost on the beach at St Michael’s on Sea, C-Bali has 180-degree views of the lagoon, beach and ocean from the restaurant, patio and lawn

The Cellar Boutique Restaurant (Port Shepstone)
An elegant menu has seasonal updates and blackboard specials.

El Gato Sports Bar and Restaurant (Ramsgate)
The restaurant has a fun and informal atmosphere.

Fish Eagle (Port Edward)
Try the succulent crumbed chicken parcels.

The Fish Inn (Shelly Beach)
Try the fishcakes, prawn curry roti and fish curry.

Fish on the River (Port Shepstone)
On a hot day, order a platter, a bottle of chilled wine and watch the tide pull in.

Flavours Restaurant (Ramsgate)
The patio setting is a most pleasant option for lunchtime dining and summer evening meals.

Keg ‘n Galleon (Margate)
This is a popular spot with entertaining serving staff.

La Capannina (Ramsgate)
The view from the deck is a favourite in summer.

The Lobster Pot (Ramsgate)
Known for its seafood, this neighbourhood eatery makes unbeatable prawns in a whiskey sauce.

Long Fen Chinese Restaurant (Margate)
Pop by for after-work drinks and a bite to eat.

Stages Restaurant and Lounge (Port Shepstone)
Soak up the 180-degree views, neat lighting and good music selection.

Stephward Estate (Margate)
Expect wonderfully eclectic décor, comfortable antique seating and art nouveau lighting.

Trattoria Casa Mia (Umtentweni)
Casa Mia has a reputation on the KZN South Coast with locals, mostly for its super thin-based pizzas.

The Zambezi Restaurant (Ramsgate)
In summer it’s a great idea to sit on the patio, which overlooks the St Michael’s beach.