The southernmost coral reefs of Africa can be found off Sodwana Bay. These reefs owe their existence to clear warm water carried southward by the subtropical Agulhas Current and the absence of silt-carrying rivers discharging into the region. They consist of thin veneers of Indo-Pacific corals colonising sandstone outcrops.
These waters are home to 95 identified species of hard and soft corals, sponges and many other invertebrates. There are over 1200 species of fish including ragged tooth sharks, whale sharks tiger sharks, manta rays and giant morays. Resident reef fish include tiger rock cods, rubber lips and huge potato bass.
The most commonly dived reefs at Sodwana are 2 Mile, 5 Mile, 7 Mile and 9 Mile Reefs. Each of these has unique features. There is also excellent diving at Rocktail Bay and Mabibi. Diving is possible all year round.
The best snorkelling spots throughout the iSimangaliso coastline are at the Kosi mouth, Rocktail Bay and Mabibi, Sodwana and Cape Vidal.