The climate of Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal is subtropical but very closely resembles a tropical climate with only two months of the year experiencing an average temperature of below 18 °C. The area has warm wet summers and mild, moist, dry winters, which are frost free. The terrain is generally very flat, rising only slightly towards the west. All the suburbs of Richards Bay are no more than a few metres above sea level. The area is abundant in coastal dune forest.
Credit: Christopher Mabika
Tourism is a major part of the economy of Richards Bay. The city is seen as a gateway to Zululand, an area popular for its large game parks and diverse wildlife. The Zululand Birding Route includes the Richards Bay Harbour and Game Reserve. Richards Bay is a popular kite surfing destination thanks to the consistent winds blowing from the North East. It is home to some of the most spectacular wetland scenery and unspoilt beaches on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Richards Bay has excellent recreational facilities such as art galleries, fishing, bird watching, surfing, swimming and canoeing.
