This is the shocking moment a freak wave smashed into a beachside bar in South Africa and washed seven people out to sea. 

Video shows an onlooker shouting s*** as the wave crashes onto the front terrace of the Mariners bar before rapidly filling the area with several feet of water within seconds.

Frantic guests could be heard screaming as the restaurant was quickly wiped out by the wave, with debris seen smashing into the bar area after the patrons had started watching South Africa play Romania in the Rugby World Cup. 

The force of the wave pushed some guests towards the back of the bar in Marina Beach, KwaZulu-Natal State, before the strong current pulled seven terrified patrons out to sea on Sunday.

Guests could be heard screaming ‘there’s a child in here’ as at least one person is seen being dragged out to sea. 

A witness who filmed the incident said he had tried to reach the little girl but couldn’t reach her due to the strength of the current. He said that two lifeguards managed to pluck her out of the sea after they sprinted towards her.  

This is the shocking moment a freak wave smashed into a beachside bar in South Africa and washed seven people out to sea

Video shows an onlooker shouting s*** as the wave crashes onto the front terrace of the Mariners bar before rapidly filling the area with several feet of water within seconds

The Mi7 National Group, a state security company, said of the incident: ‘The initial wave crashed into the restaurant, pushing patrons towards the back of the building.

‘When it receded, a few patrons were swept into the ocean. Luckily, they managed to get back to shore safely.’

The security company added: ‘The initial wave was followed by a rising tide, which continued to batter the restaurant.’

According to reports, seven people were injured in the incident, with five requiring hospital treatment.

The Mi7 National Group stated: ‘The incident comes during a period of high spring tides, causing damage across coastal towns along the country’s east coast.

‘We also caution against visiting KZN’s beaches for recreation until the tides quell and it is safe to do so.’ The high swells subsided by Monday afternoon. 

Frantic guests could be heard screaming as the restaurant was quickly wiped out by the wave, with debris seen smashing into the bar area after the guests had started watching South Africa play Romania in the Rugby World Cup

Guests could be heard screaming ‘there’s a child in here’ as at least one person is seen being dragged out to sea (left) 

The witness who filmed the wave crashing towards the patrons wrote on Instagram: ‘I thought riding bikes was dangerous… try watching rugby at the beach!

‘Condolences to John from Mariners. We will come help you clean up tomorrow.’

One local asked: ‘Was the child ok?’

The cameraperson, known online as Trail Boss Enduro, replied: ‘Yes, I started going for her but was battling to get through the wreckage. 

‘Two lifeguards sprinted from the far right of the beach and plucked her out. Very lucky indeed.’