The magical Dolphin Coast on the northern coast of South Africa is a favoured holiday area for local and international visitors alike. This lush strip of coastline starts about 45 minutes' drive north of the city of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal Province.
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Umhlanga Rocks, a popular destination on the Dolphin Coast.
The Zulu Kingdom's North Coast also known as the Dolphin Coast, stretches from Zimbali to the mighty Thukela River. KwaZulu-Natal's North Coast is also known as the Dolphin Coast due to the hundreds of bottlenose dolphins that frequent this part of the coast. It is situated in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa and is the playground of the Bottlenose Dolphins which frolic in the waters close to shore and are visible all year round.
Coastal Towns and Villages
Along the coast, you'll find several villages: Umhlanga, Ballito, and Salt Rock. What can you expect from these villages? Lots of holiday homes, quite popular with retirees, and green dunes, with modern shopping centres scattered around. Ballito's Dolphin Coast offers stunning beaches and a relaxed lifestyle. Plan for sunshine and sea breezes.
Ballito: A Coastal Gem
Ballito is easily accessible by car, located north of Durban along the N2 highway. The nearest major airport is King Shaka International Airport (DUR), about a 20-30 minute drive away. Many visitors rent cars at the airport for convenient travel along the Dolphin Coast. Willard Beach is famous for surfing and the Ballito Pro. Thompson's Bay offers a beautiful rock pool for swimming. Clarke Bay and Salmon Bay are also popular for their scenic beauty and swimming opportunities.
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Ballito Beach, a popular spot for surfing and relaxation.
Things to Do on the Dolphin Coast
What can you do in Dolphin Coast besides waving at dolphins? Are you a true water lover? Along the beaches of Dolphin Coast, there are plenty of surf schools where you can rent a board, run across the beach with your hair flying in the wind, and casually catch the crystal-clear waves. You might even be accompanied by friendly dolphins on your way! When the wind picks up, it’s also an excellent spot for kitesurfing, or you can enjoy a long, invigorating beach walk across the stunningly beautiful shores. If you're in a more relaxed mood, visit one of the many cafes or bars overlooking the ocean.
Stroll or take a horse-ride along the North Coast at low tide and search for sea life. Climb rocky outcrops and enjoy a spot of angling. These are just a few of the activities that are on offer on the North Coast. The coast can be explored by boat, providing front-row seats from which to watch the dolphins at play, or on horseback or by microlight, which offers a bird's-eye view of this spectacular region.
Historical and Cultural Experiences
The North Coast is also home to a large Indian community. The influence of the Zulu culture and the legacy left by King Shaka is tangible here. The great Shaka Zulu is buried at Kwa-Dukuza and Nobel Laureate, Albert Luthuli lies buried nearby. Salt Rock was once his home, and Shaka's Rock a favourite look-out point. Shaka's grave forms part of the local Zulu Heritage Route, which takes in numerous sites associated with his reign. You can also visit the tiny town of Shakaskraal - the site of Shaka's royal military homestead and today home to many traditional African healers.
Shaka's Rock, a historical landmark on the Dolphin Coast.
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Nature and Wildlife
Walk a 'muti' (African medicine) trail through the Harold Johnson Nature Reserve or visit historic battle sites such as the Ultimatum Tree, Ndondakusuka or Fort Pearson. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Hidden Forest Wildlife Sanctuary, located just outside Ballito. This sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating various animals, including lemurs and monkeys. It's a peaceful haven for observing wildlife in a natural setting and learning about conservation efforts.
Planning Your Visit
With plenty of accommodation to choose from the Dolphin Coast has a lot to offer visitors. The North Coast is a place to indulge the senses - either in good restaurants offering fine dining or partying in nightclubs. Tee off on the excellent golf courses or for the sheer thrill of it - take to the air in a microlight and see this magnificent coastline as the seagulls see it.
Here's a table summarizing key information for planning your trip:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa |
| Main Towns | Umhlanga, Ballito, Salt Rock |
| Activities | Surfing, swimming, dolphin watching, historical tours, nature walks |
| Accessibility | King Shaka International Airport (DUR), N2 highway |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round, mild sunny winters |
Pack light cotton or linen clothes, short sleeve shirts, shorts, sundresses, hats and swimsuits. Khakis are popular.
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