Ballito continues to boom as more people take up residence in this coastal town. With an enviable lifestyle and an easy commute, its easy to see why.
About the area:
With its wonderfully warm weather all year-round, stunning beaches and relaxing vacation feel, Ballito is one of the most popular holiday towns in South Africa. The resort town lies about 40km north of Durban, around a 40-minute drive away. Warm water, pods of dolphins and pretty sugar cane fields are just a few of the reasons Ballito is a firm favourite among holiday-makers all around the country.
Recently there has been a population boom in Ballito, with South Africans from all over the country choosing the coastal town as their new home. Its growing popularity with buyers, investors and visitors alike has been aided by the close proximity of the King Shaka International Airport, about a 20-minute drive away, and the various new residential developments. It has become common for buyers and their families to relocate to the town and commute to work further afield, often in Gauteng. As crazy as it sounds, sometimes the travelling time for a flight to Joburg from King Shaka, and then taking a train into Sandton can be shorter than driving from Pretoria to Johannesburg.
At its core, Ballito is a holiday town and is therefore geared towards tourism. It’s home to numerous top-class amenities, with lots of great restaurants located around the town and three shopping malls: Ballito Lifestyle Centre, Ballito Junction and The Quarter. There are many good schools close by, in the areas of Umhlanga, Stanger and Tongaat, for any families thinking of moving, or already living in Ballito. Of course, the main attractions are the beaches and what comes with them: warm water, tidal pools, surfing, swimming, scuba diving and more. The coastal town is also home to The Ballito Pro, an annual international surfing competition. Other top tourist attractions that draw the crowds year-round are the Flag Animal Farm, the Ndlondlo Reptile Park and paintball arenas.
Ballito is a true seaside wonder and the perfect destination for a holiday or to settle down in. It has come a long way from when it was first established in 1954 as a private township. Its immense growth over the past two decades has seen it transform into a laid-back, fun and stunning destination for all.
Best in food:
- Al Pescatore
- Beira Alta
- La Fiamma
- Mo-Zam-Bik Ballito
- Gigi’s Brasserie
Nearby medical facilities:
- Netcare Alberlito Hospital
- Ballito Medical Centre
- Pearl Wellness Clinic
Things to do:
- Explore the King Shaka Heritage Route.
- Explore the Ballito Tidal Pool.
- Go for a swim at Clarke Bay Beach.
- Take a sightseeing trip in a helicopter.
- Visit the Flag Animal Farm.
Agent insight into the Ballito area
What makes Ballito area, as a location, such an attractive place to reside in/near?
Apart from the awesome community, endless summers, golden beaches, inviting warm ocean, world-class golf courses, Microlight adventures, mountain bike and running trails, fabulous family and fine dining restaurants, boutique shopping, indulgent spas, sunset cocktails, Big-Five game reserve a short drive away, it’s probably having quick access to King Shaka International Airport. Question is, if you don’t live here, why not?
Kerry Ritson and Angie Crickmay: Century21 Dolphin Coast
What lifestyle could someone expect if they lived within the Ballito area?
To live in Ballito is pure heaven on earth. Imagine a rustic lifestyle in the lush green surrounds of Ballito, the warm Indian Ocean on your doorstep, world-class estates such as Zimbali Coastal Resort and Simbithi Eco-Estate; retail therapy around the corner at several shopping malls; a stone’s throw away from Durban, Umhlanga and various Big Five game reserves; within reach of the world via King Shaka International Airport.
Gert Vorster: Engels & Volkers
Take a video tour of the neighbourhood here:
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
