Bird and butterfly watching
At the Aerial Boardwalk (located within the enchanting Dlinza Forest) boasting a 150 metre long walkway built above the Dlinza Forest floor, which allows visitors to view flora, fauna and avifauna at treetop level as the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. For the avid bird watchers, the Zululand Birding Route, the first BirdLife South Africa avitourism project, focused on conserving our birds and their habitats, is a must-visit. Clubventure zip line tours https://www.clubventure.co.za/
Mountain biking
With Holla Trails (+27 74 897 8559) or Sugar Rush Adventure Precinct http://www.sugarrush.co.za
Walking trails
On the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Trail and on the Tidal Trail http://www.tidaltao.com
Regular Saturday Morning Farmers Markets and a monthly Night Market with live musical bands
At The Litchi Orchard
Crocodile farm
At Crocodile Creek http://www.crocodilecreek.co.za
Flag animal farm
(+27 32 947 2018) http://flaganimalfarm.co.za
Kwa-Zulu Natal Sharks Board
Ndlondlo Reptile Park and Paint Ball Arena
Burnedale Farm Lucky Linton Family Park and Gold Mine
Salt Rock Main Beach for an exhilarating body surf, Clark Bay for a secluded area of suntanning and exploration in the many tidal pools, Granny’s Pool for a safe rock pool for kiddies to paddle in,
Four Pillars for secluded privacy and excellent spear-fishing game drives
At Rain Farm Game Reserve and Lodge (+27 32 815 1050)
Micro-lighting
With Ballito Microlight School (+27 82 659 5550) or Comefly Microlights http://www.dirtyboots.co.za
Quad biking
With High Stakes in Cato Ridge https://www.highstakes.co.za or with Fat Traxx through the rolling sugar fields of Natal http://www.encounter.co.za/fattraxx.html
Deep-sea fishing
With Dirty Harry Fishing Tours (+27 82 579 3878) https://fishingbooker.com
Snorkelling
With Tidal Tao Snorkeling http://www.dirtyboots.co.za/operators/tidaltao-snorkeling
Scuba diving
With Club Venture (+27 32 942 8014) https://www.clubventure.co.za or with 36 Degrees (+27 82 553 2834) https://www.dirtyboots.co.za/activities/geographic/scuba-diving/
Dolphin and whale watching tours in Richards Bay
With St Lucia Tours and Charters http://www.dirtyboots.co.za
Sedgeway tours through the Moses Mabhida Stadium and across Durban’s Golden Mile
https://www.dirtyboots.co.za/operators/segway-gliding-tours
Surfing lessons
With Groundswell (+27 83 409 6286)
Kitesurfing
At Surfers Ballito Bay (+27 32 946 0018) https://www.dirtyboots.co.za/operators/surfers-ballito-bay
Paintball
With High Stakes https://highstakes.co.za/activities/paintball
Archery
With High Stakes in Cato Ridge https://highstakes.co.za/activities/archery
Helicopter flights
With Starlite Charters https://www.dirtyboots.co.za/operators/starlite-charters-durban
Gateway Theatre of Shopping
Located in Umhlanga – 20-minute drive south – offering cinemas, 4×4 track, indoor climbing wall, wave-surfing facility and well over 300 stores https://www.gatewayworld.co.za
Ballito Lifestyle Centre
Home
Ballito Junction Shopping Centre
https://www.ballitojunction.co.za
Tiffany’s Shopping Centre
http://www.saltrockshopping.co.za
Fiamma Grill, Tashas Ballito, Pappa G’s
Nature and Wildlife
The Dolphin Coast, where Ballito is located, is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. This area is home to a variety of wildlife, including playful dolphins, majestic whales, and graceful sea turtles. A visit to the Hawaan Forest, a unique woodland area bounded by the Ohlanga River and the sea, offers a chance to see a large number of animals and birds in their natural habitat.
For bird lovers, the Umgeni River Bird Park is a tropical paradise with over 200 bird species and a variety of other animals. This park, located near Ballito, provides a serene environment to observe these beautiful creatures. Additionally, the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board Maritime Centre of Excellence in Durban plays a crucial role in protecting bathers at the many Durban beaches from shark attacks, making it an important institution for marine conservation.
Outdoor Activities
Ballito is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities to suit all interests. Whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, or horse riding, there’s something for everyone. The Holla Trails, located near Ballito, provide a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails suitable for all levels of experience.
For those seeking more adventure, the Sugar Rush Adventure Precinct offers an array of outdoor activities, including zip lining, paintball, and archery. If quad biking is your thrill, Fat Traxx provides exciting tours through the rolling sugar fields of Natal. Club Venture, also located near Ballito, offers a mix of activities such as zip lining, paintball, and scuba diving, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Water Activities
Ballito’s stunning beaches are perfect for a variety of water activities, making it a top destination for water sports enthusiasts. The annual Ballito Pro, held at Willard Beach, is one of the largest surfing competitions in the world, attracting surfers from all over the globe.
For those who prefer exploring the underwater world, Tidal Tao Snorkeling offers guided snorkeling tours to discover the vibrant marine life of the Indian Ocean. Scuba diving enthusiasts can join 36 Degrees for an unforgettable diving experience. If fishing is more your style, Dirty Harry Fishing Tours provides deep-sea fishing adventures, giving you the chance to catch a variety of fish species.
Beaches and Coastline
Ballito is renowned for its beautiful beaches, each offering a unique experience. Willard Beach is perfect for swimming and surfing, while Clark Bay provides a more secluded spot for sunbathing and exploring tidal pools. Salt Rock Beach is another favorite, known for its stunning scenery and excellent swimming conditions.
The coastline of Ballito is teeming with marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, making it a great spot for wildlife watching. For those who enjoy scenic walks, the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Trail offers a picturesque route along the coastline and through the lagoon. The Tidal Trail, also located near Ballito, provides a scenic walk along the coastline and through the tidal pools, perfect for nature lovers.
Shopping and Entertainment
Ballito offers a variety of shopping and entertainment options to suit all tastes. The Ballito Junction Regional Mall and the Ballito Lifestyle Centre are popular shopping destinations, offering a wide range of stores and dining options. For a unique shopping experience, visit the Litchi Orchard Market, where you can find local produce, crafts, and delicious food.
Just a short drive away in Umhlanga, the Gateway Theatre of Shopping is a must-visit destination with over 300 stores, cinemas, a 4×4 track, and a wave-surfing facility. Tiffany’s Shopping Centre in Salt Rock also offers a range of retail outlets, restaurants, and delis. For a relaxing day out, head to Umhlanga Beach, where you can enjoy a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as a scenic walk along the coastline.