Now’s the best time to start planning your December holidays, and what better way is there to spend your time o¬ than on the beautiful beaches of Ballito?
This resort town has been attracting holidaymakers for decades, especially those from Gauteng, and it’s easy to see why. Not only does Ballito have the warm Indian Ocean and gorgeous beaches, it also o¬ffers a wealth of amenities, restaurants and local attractions.
Beaches in Ballito
Part of the North Coast shoreline, the beaches here are the playground of bottlenose dolphins, which can be seen from the shore all year round; this is where this stretch of area gets its name, the Dolphin Coast. Whales can also be seen here as they migrate to Mozambique.
The main beach in Ballito, Willard, is favoured by young people and families as it has shark nets and a lifeguard on duty seven days a week. It’s also a popular choice for surfers and bodyboarders. Other popular beaches include Thompsons, a picturesque setting with coves and interesting lime rock formations; Salt Rock beach, which has plenty of great waves for surfing; Chakas Rock, which has a tidal pool teeming with sea life; as well as Sheffield and Christmas Bay.
Ballito attractions
For those looking for a thrill, the area boasts plenty to keep you entertained, such as microlight tours, kitesurfing, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing. For those who want to take things a bit slower, there’s the Flag Animal Farm, which is home to more than 1,000 rescued animals, and the Ndlondlo Reptile Park.
Other attractions include the fascinating King Shaka Heritage Route, mountain biking on the Holla Trails and so much more to keep you entertained and intrigued throughout your holiday. The coastal town is also home to The Ballito Pro, an annual international surfing competition that brings a festive atmosphere to the town.
Ballito Junction Regional Mall
The Ballito Junction Regional Mall, which opened on 23 March this year, has more than 200 retail stores and top-quality dining experiences and entertainment options for the whole family.
Ballito has come a long way since it was first established in 1954 as a private township. Its immense growth over the past two decades has transformed it into a laid-back, fun and stunning destination for all. Less than 40 minutes from the King Shaka International Airport, this coastal gem is also conveniently located close the popular Umhlanga area in the south and Salt Rock and Shaka’s Rock in the north, offering holidaymakers an opportunity to explore and appreciate the beauty of KwaZulu-Natal.
I love escaping my big city life in Joburg and spending my holiday enjoying the beach, the warm waters and the friendly atmosphere of Ballito
-Jessica Daniels, holidaymaker.
Where to stay in Ballito:
- Fairmont Zimbali Resort
- The Vineyard on Ballito
- Ballito Manor
- Chantilly Resort
- Hampshire Hotel
- Coco De Mer
Eating out in Ballito:
- Fiamma Grill: for superb cuts of meat
- Mozambik Ballito: for mouth-watering seafood
- Al Pescatore: for delicious Italian cuisine
- Beira Alta: for Portuguese cuisine with an African influence
- Zaras Cafe: for continental-style dishes
- Beluga: for delicious Asian cuisine
- Casa Bella: for wood-fired pizza
Ballito tourist attractions
- Harold Johnson Nature Reserve
- Simbithi Golf Course
- Zimbali Country Club
- Ballito Helicopter Flips
- Ballito Lifestyle Centre
- King Shaka Heritage Route
- Flag Animal Farm
- Ballito Brewing Company (formerly known as The Great Railroad Brewing Company)
Looking to buy property in Ballito? View the widest selection of homes and apartments for sale in Ballito on Private Property.
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
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