Image: Luke Patterson
The incredible coastline, family-friendly activities, and incredible dining and retail options have seen Ballito become one of the country’s top holiday destinations. The great climate also means that, even in the winter months, Ballito continues to attract holidaymakers, with so much planned for June and July.
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The annual Ballito Pro, one of the major drawcards for visitors in winter, shares all the great facilities, activities, and sites that make this the ultimate destination.
1. The Ballito Pro
This epic international surfing event and two-week-long festival runs from 22 June to 6 July, promising something for the whole family. Celebrating its 56th year, the event relocated to KwaDukuza in 2009 and has continued to grow ever since. Alongside the surfing, The Ballito Pro festival includes skate contests, environmental and community activations, retail delights, and daily beach activities.
There’s also a fantastic music component in the form of the Battle of the DJs, After Dark Parties, Corona Sunset Beach Bar Sessions, and the free Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona. This year, the programme includes the Coastal and Cultural Tourism Experience aligned with the #LoveNorthCoast movement to promote, showcase and grow the region to benefit all who live, work and invest in Ballito.
Visit www.theballitopro.com or The Ballito Pro on social media.
2. Sugar Rush Park
Just 10 minutes from Ballito, Sugar Rush Park is a thrill-seeker’s paradise with putt-putt, laser tags, reptile park, aerial obstacle courses and scenic running and biking trails. Set in inland farmlands, Sugar Rush is a place to find adventure, fun or tranquillity in the great outdoors.
Visit www.sugarrush.co.za
3. Ballito Microlight Flights
Next door to Sugar Rush Park, Ballito Microlights offers scenic flights over the Dolphin Coast, from Ballito coastline to Prince’s Grant. Soar above the coast line and enjoy panoramic views of lush greenery and sparkling seas.
Visit www.ballitomicrolight.co.za
4. Hidden Forest Wildlife Sanctuary
For animal-loving families, this sanctuary offers educational tours featuring rare and exotic primates. Just a 20-minute drive from Ballito, the Hidden Forest is a forever home for various wildlife species. Their mission is to educate and foster greater understanding of wildlife and the threats they face.
Visit www.hiddenforest.co.za
5. Rain Farm Game Lodge & Spa
Rain Farm Game Lodge & Spa is the only game farm on the KZN North Coast – a tranquil bush escape just 25 minutes outside Ballito. Choose from luxury treetop suites to dam-view lodges and enjoy activities ranging from game drives and nature walks to spa treatments and dam-side picnics. The exclusive adventure hub for overnight guests includes paintball, archery, and rock climbing.
Visit www.rainfarm.co.za
6. Farmyard Fun at Flag Animal Farm
Located in Sheffield and just 10 minutes from Ballito, Flag Animal Farm is home to more than 1 000 animals – most of them rescued. This interactive wonderland lets families connect with nature: pet a bunny, ride a pony or feed a goat – it’s all part of the experience. Highlights include indoor play zones, outdoor jungle gyms, a mini dinosaur park, a unicorn play section and a splash water park (weekends and holidays). Enjoy tractor and pony rides, daily educational shows and animal encounters.
Visit www.flaganimalfarm.co.za
7. Dining Delights
Ballito is a dining wonderland with restaurants catering to all tastes and interests, many of which have great ocean views. Here’s a look at some of the top restaurants to try while visiting The Ballito Pro this winter:
- Jimbo’s Burger Bar in Ballito Village: Step back into the 80s with retro arcade games, classic rock and cheesy burgers that create a fun, nostalgic atmosphere.
- Concha Café & Bakery in Ballito Village: This is a traditional Portuguese-style café and community hub. It’s a great place to relax, refuel or start your day with a post-run treat. Pets welcome!
- Conchilla Tapas Lounge and Bar in Ballito Village: Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, delectable sharing dishes and scenic views of Salmon Bay from Ballito’s only tapas lounge and bar.
- Fiamma Grill on Compensation Beach Road: Located within the stylish Coco De Mer Boutique Hotel, Fiamma Grill has top-tier service and prepares everything from wood-fired pizzas and fresh pastas to premium seafood and steaks.
- Mi Açaí at Salt Rock Centre: This combines healthy living with the cool, laidback spirit of iconic beach towns. Premium surfboards, smoothies and sunshine!
8. Blue Flag Beaches
The beaches are a major attraction for visitors to Ballito, with two beaches forming part of the WESSA Blue Flag Beach programme and another two with pilot status.
9. Significant Cultural Heritage
KwaDukuza embraces its significant heritage, including the legacy of King Shaka and Chief Albert Luthuli, the first African Nobel Prize winner, at the new KwaDukuza Museum found opposite the King Shaka Monument. Take the time to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful coastal destination.
10. The Warm Community
Ballito’s winter warmth is matched by the warmth of the local community who call this place home! Working with KwaDukuza Municipality, the Ballito Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP) is enhancing safety and revitalising public spaces.
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