North Coast

Description

The North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal stretches from Zimbali to the Tugela River. Known as the Dolphin Coast for the numerous bottlenose dolphins that frequent the waters throughout the year, the coastline is a mecca of sheltered bays, glorious beaches, and endless sugar cane fields. With subtropical weather and warm Indian Ocean waters, the North Coast is a holiday destination that’s hard to beat.

The North Coast is home to beautiful holiday towns like Ballito, Umhlanga, Salt Rock, Sheffield’s Beach, Umdloti, and Zinkwazi that are known for their laidback atmosphere. There is a variety of accommodation to suit all needs and budgets, as well as safe swimming beaches and tidal pools where summer can be enjoyed all year round.

The region has plenty of culture and history to share. Hike the muti trail through the Harold Johnson Nature Reserve or visit historic battle sites like Fort Pearson or the Ultimatum Tree. Other historical sites include Shaka Memorial Garden and Interpretive Centre, Morewood Memorial Gardens, and the grave of Chief Albert Lithuli.

The coast is fantastic for outdoor sports like fishing, scuba diving, surfing, kite surfing, snorkelling, dolphin and whale watching, hiking, horse riding, kayaking, and quad biking, as well as adventure activities like hot air ballooning, paragliding, and micro light flights.

Golfers will find some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses along this stretch of coastline. Popular golf courses include Umhlali Country Club, Zimbali Golf Estate, Mount Edgecombe Golf Estate, and Prince's Grant Golf Estate in KwaDukuza.

Spend some time shopping at Umhlanga Rocks Gateway Shopping Centre, The Quarter Boutique Shopping Centre and Ballito Indoor Market in Ballito, and the Litchi Orchard Saturday market in Umhlali. As the North Coast is home to a large Indian community, you’ll get to smell and taste a variety of fragrant spices at the local markets.

Visit Flag Animal Farm in Ballito which offers pony rides and the chance to hand feed a variety of farm animals. Crocodile Creek in Tongaat has 9,000 crocodiles as well as alligators, monkeys, and leguaans, and offers the chance to touch snakes and baby crocodiles. Clubventure in Ballito offers an exciting 1.5km zipline. Ndlondlo Reptile Park in Ballito is home to rock monitors, iguanas, frogs, and a variety of pythons and anacondas. Bird watchers will enjoy the incredible birdlife at Zinkwazi Beach and the Tranquility Bird Hide at KwaDukuza.

With King Shaka International Airport in Durban providing easy access, the North Coast is a fantastic holiday destination waiting to be discovered.