List of estuaries of South Africa

Some 300 river outlets intersect this coastline and these range from small water bodies that are only occasionally connected to the ocean, to large, permanently open systems, and coastal lakes connected to the sea via a narrow channel (Heydorn, 1991).

Being places where rivers meet the sea, estuaries are one of the most important features of the South African coastline; they are tranquil areas of high productivity and play a vital role in the life cycles of many plants and animals.

Apart from their ecological importance, estuaries are also popular sites for human activity and development.

Recreational uses of estuaries include bait collection, bird watching, boating, fishing and swimming.

Because of their great aesthetic value, areas around estuaries are often favoured for housing and tourist developments.