About Sea Lions Den Backpackers Lodge
Sea Lions Den Backpackers Lodge was created for people who love the ocean. Our location puts you within minutes of the launch points for Aliwal Shoal, one of South Africa’s top dive sites and home to some of the most exciting shark and reef dives in the world and beautiful picturesque nature sites.
The lodge offers a warm, easy-going atmosphere where travellers, divers and ocean lovers can connect. We keep things simple, comfortable and affordable so you can focus on what really matters: making memories, exploring the coastline and diving some of the best sites South Africa has to offer.
Why Stay With Us
Nearby Attractions
Sea Lions Den Backpackers is your basecamp, where thrill-seekers meet warm waters, big dives and unforgettable South Coast adventures.
Aliwal Shoal
One of the world’s top 10 dive sites. Expect colourful reefs, ragged-tooth sharks (seasonal), turtles, rays, pelagic fish and warm Indian Ocean water.
Scuba Diving
Launch Sites and dive shops are minutes from the Lodge. Options for reef dives, wreck dives, shark dives and courses.
Shark Cage Diving
Popular with thrill-seekers. Multiple charter companies operate close by and run year-round shark experiences.
Golf
Umkomaas Golf Club offers a relaxed 18-hole course with beautiful ocean views just a few minutes from Sea Lions Backpackers Lodge.
Umkomaas Beach
Great for Walks, Picnics and sunrise photography.
Empisini Nature Reserve
Forest trails, birdlife and picnic spots. Ideal for guests wanting something calmer than diving.
Crocworld Ezembeni
Home to crocodiles, snakes, birds and animal encounters. Perfect for families.
Whale Watching
From June to December, thousands of migrating humpback whales pass Emkhomazi and Aliwal Shoal, giving guests at Sea Lions Backpackers Lodge some of the best whale-watching opportunities on the KZN South Coast.
Authentic, Warm and Welcoming
Sea Lions Backpackers Lodge has the easygoing charm of a coastal home where everyone instantly feels at ease. The house is filled with character: wooden floors that have heard plenty of stories, bright pops of colour, and a mix of rustic furniture that makes the whole place unique and welcoming. Guests relax on the wide front veranda, share meals and laughter in the communal kitchen, and gather in the cosy lounge after a day of diving. The outdoor braai area and upper deck look straight toward the ocean, making it the perfect spot for sunset chats, stargazing or swapping dive tales. It’s friendly, unpretentious and full of personality, creating the kind of atmosphere where strangers quickly become friends.
What Our Guests Say
We take pride in serving our guests with the best experience. Read what they say.
Plan an Unforgettable Experience at the Sea Lions Den Backpackers Today!
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