Ballito is a tiny holiday town situated about 40km north of Durban, popular for its golden beaches and wonderfully mild climate. Bottlenose dolphins can be seen frolicking in the waves all year round, and come close to the shore to feed. Whales are also common during the annual migration to Mozambique in the summer.
Ballito’s main swimming beach is Willard Beach which has Blue Flag Status. Shark nets protect swimmers and lifeguards are on duty seven days a week so it’s a safe haven for the whole family. There is also a 2.4km boardwalk offering the perfect opportunity for a sunset stroll. Clarke Bay is another trendy spot with swimmers and surfers alike and the nearby Ballito tidal pools are well maintained, clean and safe. Other popular beaches are Salmon Bay Beach, Salt Rock Beach, Sheffield Beach, Thompsons Bay and Tinley Manor.
The Ballito area is good for fishing – licences can be bought at any local post office while licences for mussels, oysters and crayfish have to be obtained from the nature Conservation offices in Umbilo (Tel: +27 31 205 5278).
