A beach holiday with small children can be genuinely wonderful. Sun-warmed skin, sandy feet at the door, the sound of the ocean at bedtime. It can also be a little chaotic if the accommodation isn't quite right. The good news is that with a bit of thought upfront, the wonderfully easy version is very much within reach.
Which Beachfront Apartment is right for you?
Posted on Mon May 25, 2026.
With 14 apartments across four complexes in Shakas Rock, we hear the same question a lot: which one should we book? This guide breaks it down so you can find your perfect fit quickly.
The Complexes at a Glance
All four complexes sit on or near Thompson's Bay and Shakas Rock beach on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Before diving into the individual apartments, here's how they differ:
- Skiathos: 7 apartments, direct beach access, complex pool, evening security.
- Chakas Terrace: 1 apartment, direct beach access, level entry, lockup garage, no pool.
- Santorini: 4 apartments, direct access to semi-private Perissa beach, direct beach access to Thompsons Bay, multiple swimming pools, whale watching decks, forest walks.
- Martinique: 2 apartments, full ocean views, complex pool, Thompson's Bay Blue flag beach in walking distance from complex
Skiathos Apartments
Skiathos is the most versatile complex in the portfolio. Seven apartments ranging from 2 to 4 bedrooms, a shared pool and direct beach access a short walk from your door. All units have airconditioning, under cover parking.
3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 6 | Ground floor, step-free
Fully refurbished with new furniture and linen. Park at your door, walk straight in and the beach is right there. Wide 180° breaker views from the balcony, outdoor gas braai and pool access.
Best for: Families wanting easy access and a fresh, modern apartment with no stairs.
3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 6 | Ground floor, step-free
No steps anywhere in this apartment. Ground-level entry, breaker views, large seating area and braai facilities. Backup inverter included. Backup inverter included
Best for: Three couples that require shared beds or guests who need fully accessible, step-free accommodation.
4 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 9 | Step-free entry
The biggest apartment in Skiathos. Four bedrooms, a double sleeper couch, a generous veranda and a well-fitted kitchen. Lots of character in the decor. Backup inverter included.
Best for: Larger families who need multiple bedrooms and plenty of living space.
3 bedrooms + pajama lounge | Sleeps 8
A modern renovation with a separate pyjama lounge, useful when you want the children in their own space. Sea views from the veranda. Backup inverter included.
Best for: Families for 4 adults and 4 young children who want a bit of extra room without stepping up to a 4-bedroom unit.
3 bedrooms + pajama | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 6
Clean coastal design with natural light throughout. Glass doors open onto a private balcony with expansive ocean views.
Best for: Couples with teenagers and families who want a design-forward apartment with great views.
2 bedrooms | 2 en-suite bathrooms | Sleeps 6
Both bedrooms have their own en-suite, which makes this one particularly practical for two couples or families that value privacy. Aircon in the lounge and ducted aircon with fans in the bedrooms, backup inverter and serviced every alternate day. Panoramic ocean views and a braai balcony.
Best for: kid friendly, two couples or families who want the convenience of en-suite bathrooms in both rooms.
3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 7 | Top floor | Privacy
The most elevated position in the complex gives you the best views, particularly at sunset. Luxuriously finished, fully equipped and as private as it gets. Aircon in main bedroom and lounge and ducted aircon throughout. Backup inverter included.
Best for: Couples or families with older children looking for the most premium option in Skiathos.
Chakas Terrace
3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 6 | Lockup garage | Level entry, no stairs
Next door to the Skiathos complex. Newly revamped, with direct beach access, level entry throughout and an elevated feel despite being on the ground floor. Aircon and backup inverter. Note: no swimming pool at this complex (but can use the pool next door)
Best for: Families wanting direct beach access, easy entry and a freshly updated space.
Santorini Apartments
Santorini is a secure estate on Ocean Drive, positioned above the semi-private Perissa beach. A slightly more tucked-away feel, with direct beach access and ocean views throughout.
3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 6 | Penthouse level
All three bedrooms have aircon and sea views. The master has a full en-suite with bath and shower. Spacious open-plan living above the beach.
Best for: Families who want a penthouse position with sea views from every bedroom.
2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 4 | Ground floor
The most intimate option in the Santorini estate. King bed in the master with sea and garden views, aircon and a full en-suite. Second bedroom has twin beds. Calm, private and well-suited to a smaller party.
Best for: Couples or small families looking for something quieter and more private.
4 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms | Sleeps 8 | Double storey
The standout unit in the estate. A double-storey villa sitting just above the dunes of the private Sunrise beach. Spacious upstairs living, a downstairs TV room and aircon throughout. Four bathrooms means no queues at peak holiday time. Stanley, the butler - is a gem!
Best for: Families who want a true villa experience right on the beach, with space for everyone.
3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 6 | Beachfront
Freshly renovated with modern finishes, positioned on the beachfront overlooking the semi-private Perissa beach. Very popular with guests who spend most of their time in the water.
Best for: Beach-first families and guests who want a newly renovated apartment with sand on their doorstep.
Martinique Apartments
Martinique is a relaxed secure complex with full ocean views, a shared pool and Thompson's Bay beach access nearby.
2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Sleeps 5 | Lockup garage | First floor
Access via the garage, this large first-floor balcony with panoramic sea views over the pool. Open-plan lounge, dining and kitchen. Comfortable and well-suited to a smaller party who want big views without a large apartment.
Best for: Couples or small families wanting ocean views and a relaxed holiday pace.
3 bedrooms | Sleeps 7 | Third floor
The higher the floor, the better the views and this one delivers. A spacious balcony with a private gas braai, Smart TV and uncapped Wi-Fi. Bonus sleeper couch for that extra person.
Best for: Families who want the best vantage point in the complex, with outdoor space to make the most of it.
Further Reading
Travelling to the KZN Coast with Little Ones: What Makes a Family Holiday Easy
Thu April 23, 2026
Read This Article
Why Self-Catering is the New Luxury
Wed May 21, 2025
Read This Article
When you picture a luxurious getaway, what comes to mind? Ocean views, thoughtful decor, space to breathe, and the freedom to do things your way? That’s exactly what more and more travellers are seeking and it’s why self-catering has become the new standard in luxury travel.
Why Digital Nomads are Choosing South Africa in 2026
Read This Article
As we embrace 2026, more and more digital nomads are finding their perfect balance of work and adventure right here in South Africa. With its dynamic culture, stunning landscapes and welcoming communities, our country has quickly become one of the most desirable destinations for remote workers looking to live life on their own terms.
Share This Post