The North Coast has long been a favourite beach destination for South African holiday makers. This stretch of Indian Ocean coastline is also known as ‘The Dolphin Coast’ because bottlenose dolphins can be seen all year round.
There are two main village resorts, Ballito and Shaka’s Rock, set between the famous sugar cane fields of Natal and the golden beaches of the Indian Ocean. Less than an hour from Durban, these popular beach resorts have good surfing and swimming, fishing and diving, and adventure activities; a wide choice of restaurants, shops and facilities; and four outstanding golf courses within a 20-minute drive!
Closer still to Durban, Umhlanga Rocks marks the start of the North Coast. It is a good alternative to the city because, while you can drive there in 20 minutes, Umhlanga has the feeling of a small resort, with great beaches, as well as a good mix of shops and restaurants.