The iLovu is a coastal estuary located in Winklespruit, within the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. Its mouth is situated at the Illovo Bridge, which serves as a key geographical reference point. The estuary is relatively small in size and is in close proximity to other estuarine systems like the uMgababa and uMkhomazi. The surrounding area is noted for having a relatively less dense population compared to other regions, and the estuary receives no direct effluents from industrial activities, which contributes to its environmental profile. The iLovu River catchment feeds into the estuary, and the area features woody, fire-tolerant vegetation at elevations ranging from 180 to 870 metres above sea level inland. A major consideration for trip planning is that the railway bridge across the iLovu River was damaged and remained unrepaired as of late 2023, affecting regional transport but also indicating a potential fixed crossing point over the watercourse. The estuary is situated near the residential areas of Warner Beach and Illovo South, with the R102 (Andrew Zondo Road) providing coastal road access. Paddlers should be aware that the N2 freeway intersects the area but does not offer direct access, requiring use of the R603 interchange in Winklespruit or Seadoone Road in Doonside to reach the coast.