Dolphin Coast

Description

From Zimbali in the South to the mighty Tugela River in the north, KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast is not only a playground for bottlenose dolphins, but for thousands of holidaymakers searching for seaside fun in the sun. From surfing and scuba diving, to golf and hunting, this enviable strip of coastline offers a multitude of activities that will keep you returning for more. Book your accommodation now to avoid missing out.

Stretching along the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal, the Dolphin Coast includes the coastal holiday towns of Ballito, Salt Rock, Kwadukuza, Zimbali, and Stanger. This beautiful sub-tropical region is blessed with warm waters, barrelling waves, pristine beaches, and a collection of tidal pools. The warm Indian Ocean and shark protected beaches are ideal for water-based activities, including swimming, surfing, fishing, dolphin and whale watching, kayaking, canoeing, and scuba diving. Enjoy excellent angling spots along the shore or hop on a boat and try deep sea fishing. Search for sea life by taking a coastal walk or horse ride along the beach at low tide.

The Dolphin Coast isn’t only about the ocean, however. For sporting enthusiasts who enjoy land-based recreation, there are several magnificent golf courses, including Zimbali Golf Estate and Umhlali Country Club, which are both beautiful and challenging. Adrenaline junkies can enjoy paragliding, quad biking, micro light flights, and the exhilarating 1km series of skytrail “foofie” slides. Cycle tours and hiking trails venture through nature reserves, along the shore, or past fields of sugar cane. Covering diverse habitats such as coast, forest, and wetlands, they are a great way to explore the surrounds and see wildlife (and marine life) in their natural environment.

Nature lovers and birdwatchers can see a variety of animals at the Crocodile Farm, Animal Farm, and the Bird Hide at Sappi Paper Mill. Picnics can be enjoyed at the Amatikulu and Harold Johnson nature reserves, which lie north of Ballito and boast indigenous flora, zebra, antelope, and diverse species of birdlife. While Amatikulu has walking trails and canoes for hire, the Harold Johnson Nature Reserve boasts a ‘muti’ trail, cultural museum, and historical battle sites like the Ultimatum Tree and Fort Pearson.

There are many historical and cultural attractions that abound on the north coast, including the Dukuza Museum and Morewood Memorial Gardens. One of the most popular sites is the King Shaka Memorial in KwaDukuza/Stanger, where you can visit the grave of the legendary Zulu king. The grave of Nobel Laureate, Albert Luthuli lies nearby in Groutville. “The Kingdom” in Sheffield explores the Indian, Zulu, and Colonial cultures. The Dolphin Coast is home to a large Indian population and tourists are welcome to visit their temples, sample their traditionally spicy foods, and shop for fresh produce at any of the numerous markets. The Dolphin Coast is the place to indulge your senses.