Ballito

Beaches and tidal pools

Willard Beach is Ballito's main beach and the centre of the action. It has held Blue Flag status, has lifeguards on duty and shark nets, and is a favourite for swimming, surfing and bodyboarding. Every July it hosts the Ballito Pro, one of the big events on the international surfing calendar.

About a 15-minute walk south is Clarke Bay, a quieter sandy bay with lifeguards, shark nets and rock pools on either side. Further south again is the Ballito tidal pool, built into the rocks at Ballito Point and full of sea life to spot. Salmon Bay is the boat-launching beach and popular with surfers, but it isn't a swimming beach.

Joining it all is the promenade, about 2.5 km along the beachfront and busy with walkers and joggers from sunrise. Keep an eye on the water: bottlenose dolphins are seen off Ballito all year, and whales pass during their winter migration.

A town with an unexpected name

Ballito took its name from an advert for Ballito hosiery, a brand of stockings, when the town was laid out in the 1950s and 60s. It has grown from a small holiday village into the North Coast's busiest town, but its days still run on beach time.

Where to stay

We look after self-catering homes across Ballito, in the La Ballito, La Pirogue and Bay Ridge complexes and the Greek-inspired Santorini estate.

La Ballito has one of the best positions in town: just across the road from Willard Beach and right next to Ballito Steps, with a steakhouse, coffee shop and pharmacy downstairs. The complex has a lovely garden with a pool, a braai area and a children's play area. The building is one of Ballito's older complexes, but you'd pay far more for the same spot in the newer beachfront blocks. It's ideal if you'd rather spend your holiday on the sand than in the car. Browse the homes below for sleeping space, views and features.

Want somewhere quieter? We also have ten homes a few minutes north in Shaka's Rock and one in Salt Rock.

Eating out, shopping and getting around

Ballito has the widest choice of restaurants, coffee shops and takeaways on the coast, plus the Ballito Lifestyle Centre and Ballito Junction for groceries and shopping. King Shaka International Airport is under 20 minutes away. A car is useful, but from many of our homes the beach and promenade are within walking distance.

FAQ

Which Ballito beach is best for swimming?

Willard Beach and Clarke Bay both have lifeguards and shark nets. For young children, the tidal pools at Clarke Bay and Ballito Point are calmer still.

When is the Ballito Pro?

The surfing contest is held every July at Willard Beach. The town is busy that week, so book early.

How far is Ballito from the airport?

King Shaka International Airport is under 20 minutes by car, and Durban is about 40 minutes south.

Is Ballito good for families?

Yes. Lifeguarded beaches, tidal pools, the promenade and plenty of restaurants make it one of the easiest family holiday towns in KZN. Our La Ballito apartments are especially popular with families: across the road from Willard Beach, with a pool, garden and play area in the complex.

Can I stay within walking distance of the main beach?

Yes. Our La Ballito apartments are just across the road from Willard Beach, next to the shops and restaurants at Ballito Steps.