GEORGE NEWS - Wilderness Beach has received international recognition by being named one of only four South African beaches on the prestigious Corona Beach 100 List for 2026.
The annual ranking, released during World Oceans Week, highlights 100 coastal destinations across 22 countries that combine outstanding natural beauty, authentic beach culture and a strong connection to nature.
Wilderness joins well-known South African destinations Camps Bay, Boulders Beach and Kraalbaai on the global list.
George Municipality welcomed the recognition, describing it as a significant achievement for both Wilderness and the wider Garden Route tourism region.
According to the international guide, Wilderness Beach was selected for its expansive stretches of unspoilt golden sand, dramatic surf and unique location between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean. The area is known for its combination of beaches, indigenous forests, rivers and natural landscapes that attract visitors throughout the year.
The view over Wilderness Beach from the Kaaimans Pass. Photo: Rudy Koen
One of the destination’s distinctive attractions is its paragliding culture. The guide notes that Wilderness is among the few locations where paragliders regularly launch from nearby cliffs and soar above the coastline, offering spectacular aerial views of the area.
One of the destination’s distinctive attractions is its paragliding culture. Photo: Rudy Koen
The recognition also highlights Wilderness’ commitment to conservation. Situated within the Garden Route National Park, the area benefits from ongoing efforts to protect sensitive dune systems, indigenous forests, river catchments and coastal ecosystems.
George Tourism’s manager, Joan Shaw, said the accolade confirms Wilderness’ status as one of South Africa’s premier coastal destinations. “This international recognition confirms what we already know - that Wilderness is a truly exceptional place where nature takes centre stage,” she said.
The Corona Beach 100 initiative aims to encourage people to reconnect with nature while raising awareness about the importance of protecting marine and coastal environments. The programme also supports conservation projects focused on biodiversity protection, habitat restoration and coastal resilience.
Where forest, sky and sea all meet - Wilderness Beach. Rudy Koen
The municipality’s officials said this recognition not only celebrates the area’s natural beauty, but also strengthens the Garden Route’s reputation as a leading nature-based tourism destination, while highlighting the importance of sustainable tourism and environmental conservation for future generations.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
