About Mazeppa Bay

Mazeppa Bay, Wild Coast

Book your Wild Coast accommodation to experience one of the most beautiful, untouched areas of the region, namely, Mazeppa Bay. This village and its beaches are characterised by a laid-back vibe and a sense of serenity; all against the backdrop of breath-taking ocean- and landscapes.

Mazeppa Bay and its village were named after the Mazeppa ship that ran aground here in 1892. Then, in the Second World War, an aircraft crashed onto the rocky beach in a failed attempt at an emergency landing. This site, now known as One Mile rocks, is an important tourist attraction.

Mazeppa Bay is best known for its excellent fishing. There is a wide variety of game fish and sharks to be caught here. The biggest catch ever recorded was a great white shark weighing an incredible 791 kilograms (or 1 744 pounds). Other species that are frequently caught from these waters include garrick and kob, which are both delicious.

This part of the Wild Coast is home to some spectacular beaches. The most popular of these is Mazeppa Bay First Beach. From here, you can walk over a high suspension bridge (100 metres from the ocean below) to reach Mazeppa Bay's famous island. The other two main beaches lie to the south of the lagoon and are ideal for long walks and collecting shells. The waters of the Wild Coast are absolutely beautiful for a number of reasons. They are warm, unspoilt and, as their name implies, wild. So, although the conditions can be perfect for swimming, surfing and stand-up paddling, it's important that you are always aware of the currents and possible rip tides.

The sand dunes at Mazeppa Bay are impressive, luring the adventurous and the energetic to climb them and then hurtle down their slick faces on sand-boards. The rocks are teeming with fresh oysters, which are best enjoyed straight from the sea while watching the sun dip below the horizon.

The Manubi indigenous forest is an irresistible retreat near the village, and is home to loads of bird and plant species. Hiking the trails in and around Mazeppa Bay village promises some exciting and exquisite findings.

From Mazeppa Bay, you can drive to East London for the day, or hike part of the Wild Coast Hiking Trail.