Things to do
Selborne Estate offers more than just luxurious accommodation and championship golf - it’s your gateway to a truly immersive South Coast experience. Whether you’re seeking peace, adventure, or a bit of both, the estate and surrounding area are brimming with hidden gems waiting to be explored.
From world-class golf and estate luxury to quiet forest trails and hidden beaches. Selborne and Pennington invite you to slow down, reconnect, and explore. Whether you're here for relaxation, adventure, or meaningful moments with loved ones, the experience is uniquely yours.
Surfing
Ifafa Pipes is a lesser-known surf break located near Ifafa Beach. This quiet coastal spot lies near the mouth of the Fafa River lagoon. Ifafa Pipes is favored for its long right-hand waves, breaking over a mixed coral reef and sandy bottom. On average, waves reach 4–5 feet, but during strong winter swells, the reef can handle sets up to 12 feet, depending on wind and swell direction. The ideal surf conditions are during the winter months (June to August), when offshore winds are more consistent.
Canoeing
Roughly 15 minutes from Pennington, the Ifafa River mouth opens into a calm, lagoon-like setting that's perfect for a tranquil paddle. It’s quiet, often overlooked, and brimming with birdlife and fish activity. The still water makes for an easy canoeing or kayaking experience, even for beginners. With no crowds in sight, it feels like your own private waterway. Bring binoculars and your sense of adventure for this peaceful, lesser-known river escape.
Diving with Sharks
Blue Wilderness is a respected name in marine adventure tourism, offering thrilling and educational encounters with sharks and other ocean predators. Their mission is to inspire awareness and shift perceptions by revealing the incredible beauty and vulnerability of marine life. Through close, guided experiences with these misunderstood creatures, Blue Wilderness aims to foster a deeper appreciation and a stronger commitment to marine conservation.
Hiking
Explore the quiet beauty of the Umdoni Park Forest Trails, just outside the village center. These shaded pathways meander through indigenous forest, leading to scenic ocean viewpoints and hidden streams. Ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers, the trails offer a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots. The cool forest air and chorus of bird calls make it a calming walk that reconnects you with nature - a perfect way to experience Pennington’s wild side.
Horseback riding
For a unique way to explore Pennington’s natural beauty, try a guided horseback ride through coastal forest trails or along the quiet beachfront. Local stables offer routes for all levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The peaceful pace allows you to take in the scenery - birds flitting through trees, waves rolling beside you, and forest paths leading to hidden viewpoints. It's an unforgettable way to experience the area beyond the usual tourist spots.
Bird watching
Hidden near Pennington’s coast is the Nkomba Conservancy - a serene reserve protected by the local community. Follow the walking paths through dune forest, wetland, and open bush, where benches and bird hides invite quiet moments. The area is home to many native species, including the Narina Trogon and Purple Crested Turaco. It’s a must for birding enthusiasts, and its peaceful atmosphere makes it a lovely outing for families or solo nature walks.
Forest Yoga or Meditation
Tucked within Pennington’s forested landscape are quiet, natural spaces perfect for yoga or meditation. Local instructors or small wellness retreats sometimes offer guided sessions outdoors, surrounded by bird song and dappled sunlight. Whether you're a regular practitioner or trying mindfulness for the first time, this grounded experience is a soothing break from everyday life. Visit Honor Yoga Pennington's Instagram page.
Picnic at Relton Hall Gardens
Relton Hall is a charming heritage property tucked inland from Pennington, occasionally open to the public for garden tours and events. When available, it offers a beautiful setting for a peaceful picnic among flowerbeds, old trees, and manicured lawns. The estate’s gardens evoke a sense of timeless elegance and quiet retreat. It’s an ideal spot for couples, families, or solo visitors looking to unwind in a historical and tranquil setting.
Art Studio
Tucked within Pennington’s scenic landscape, The Painter’s Loft Art Studio offers a serene, creative retreat for artists and art lovers alike. Housed in a charming loft space, it features large windows that flood the room with natural light and overlook lush gardens or forested views. Ideal for painters, sketch artists, or hobbyists, the studio provides easels, quality paints, canvases, and other art supplies. Guests can sign up for workshops or drop in for casual art sessions.
Share This Page