Construction of Club Med's first resort in South Africa is in full swing and is moving steadily toward its scheduled opening in July 2026.
Officially named Club Med South Africa, the all-inclusive resort lies on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal and is bordered by wildlife reserves.
The scale of this development has necessitated a phased construction approach, allowing for multiple aspects of the project to advance simultaneously. The current focus is on three critical components.
Hotel section: Construction has reached the first floor of the main hotel at Club Med South Africa Beach, which will comprise 345 rooms. The resort centre, which will have a main pool, main restaurant and bar, welcome area and boutique, is also taking shape. Progress on the family area, which includes a family pool and kids' clubs is equally on track, as is the progress on the sports area.
Exclusive Collection villas: Platforms have been prepared and piling has begun on the 66 luxury villas, each offering views over the estuary.
Convention centre and parking: Groundwork has started on the state-of-the-art conference venue, designed to accommodate 500 delegates, along with the resort's parking area, which will maintain a vehicle-free zone for guests' safety and tranquility.
Olivier Perillat-Piratoine, MD of Club Med South Africa, said: “I am delighted to share that construction is well on track for the opening in July 2026. We look forward to onboarding the market and engaging with our customers on this fantastic venture. We will share more information on the resort and the future experience our guests can expect as the construction progresses."
The development is also on track to achieve a four-star Green Building Council of South Africa rating, underscoring Club Med’s commitment to sustainability.
Over 1 200 workers are expected to be employed at the peak of construction, with the workforce currently at 40% of this target. Importantly, most labour is sourced from within a 5km radius of the site, including input from three local wards and the traditional council, ensuring the project has a meaningful and positive impact on the surrounding community.
Club Med South Africa will offer premium accommodation – from gourmet meals and an open bar to a wide range of land and water activities, as well as dedicated kids’ clubs, all included in the price.
This new Club Med will introduce a unique bush experience through its exclusive safari lodge located in the north of Zululand. Additionally, it will feature the first-ever Club Med surf school.
