Holiday Escapes Guidebook to Christmas Bay & it’s surrounds
Sightseeing Adventures
KZN's North Coast is beautiful and has an abundance of wildlife and history.
Christmas Bay is a closely guarded treasure of the North Coast.
The drive out to the area is exceptionally pretty as the road hugs the coastline for 10 kms and gives superb views over the Indian ocean.
This vacation home treats guests to grand views of this same stretch of beautiful coast line.
A firm favourite with families, locals and visitors, the Christmas Bay's known for being secluded and quiet, and its warm waters are enticing.
With white gold sand surrounded with rocks and beautiful ocean scenes, at low tide, it becomes riddled with snorkelling spots. The long open beaches are great for long morning strolls, especially if you head north, around the 'point' and continue on towards Tinley Manor. The Bay is also within walking distance of Ballito's lagoon.
There are no restaurants on the beach so plan ahead and pack snacks for when you get hungry.
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Christmas Bay
99 Colwyn DrChristmas Bay is a closely guarded treasure of the North Coast.
The drive out to the area is exceptionally pretty as the road hugs the coastline for 10 kms and gives superb views over the Indian ocean.
This vacation home treats guests to grand views of this same stretch of beautiful coast line.
A firm favourite with families, locals and visitors, the Christmas Bay's known for being secluded and quiet, and its warm waters are enticing.
With white gold sand surrounded with rocks and beautiful ocean scenes, at low tide, it becomes riddled with snorkelling spots. The long open beaches are great for long morning strolls, especially if you head north, around the 'point' and continue on towards Tinley Manor. The Bay is also within walking distance of Ballito's lagoon.
There are no restaurants on the beach so plan ahead and pack snacks for when you get hungry.
Harold Johnson Nature Reserve is spread across the banks of the Tugela River on KwaZulu-Natal's North coast. The nature reserve protects KwaZulu-Natal's indigenous floral habitat and wildlife.
There are walking trails, picnic sites, and a variety of bird life and wildlife. There are also a number of self-guided trails to explore, some of which are lined with medicinal plants traditionally used by the Zulu people and the early white settlers.
Fort Pearson and Ultimatum Tree are both national monuments and lie within the nature reserve. Their historical roots date back to the Anglo-Zulu wars.
There is a small entrance fee of R10 for adults and R5 for children (subject to change without notice.)
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Harold Johnson Nature Reserve
Harold Johnson Nature Reserve is spread across the banks of the Tugela River on KwaZulu-Natal's North coast. The nature reserve protects KwaZulu-Natal's indigenous floral habitat and wildlife.
There are walking trails, picnic sites, and a variety of bird life and wildlife. There are also a number of self-guided trails to explore, some of which are lined with medicinal plants traditionally used by the Zulu people and the early white settlers.
Fort Pearson and Ultimatum Tree are both national monuments and lie within the nature reserve. Their historical roots date back to the Anglo-Zulu wars.
There is a small entrance fee of R10 for adults and R5 for children (subject to change without notice.)
Ballito Microlights allows you to take to the skies and experience the exhilaration of open cockpit flying over the scenic coastline of Ballito, with possible sightings of whales, sharks, dolphins, manta rays and schools of fish.
Ballito Microlights is a boutique flight school, located at a unique, beautiful airfield.
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Ballito Microlights
4420 Colisheen EstateBallito Microlights allows you to take to the skies and experience the exhilaration of open cockpit flying over the scenic coastline of Ballito, with possible sightings of whales, sharks, dolphins, manta rays and schools of fish.
Ballito Microlights is a boutique flight school, located at a unique, beautiful airfield.
Adventuring
Things to do on KZN's North Coast
Thompson's Bay beach is lovely and clean. It's sheltered from the wind by the cliffs on either side of the bay, and it's tidal pool is filled with marine life. Don't miss the awesome photo opportunities when walking through the "Hole in the Wall!"
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Thompsons Beach
9 Rock LnThompson's Bay beach is lovely and clean. It's sheltered from the wind by the cliffs on either side of the bay, and it's tidal pool is filled with marine life. Don't miss the awesome photo opportunities when walking through the "Hole in the Wall!"
The jewel of the Simbithi Country Club is undoubtedly the magnificent 18-hole golf course, designed by Peter Matkovich.
Thoughtfully-placed greens that hold a well-struck shot, pristine fairways and a layout that allows you to play every club in your bag. South Africa’s first executive course, Simbithi has a par of 60 comprising par-3s, par-4s and one par 5.
Each hole is intriguingly named after the area it occupied when Simbithi was once farmland.
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Simbithi Country Club
Club CrescentThe jewel of the Simbithi Country Club is undoubtedly the magnificent 18-hole golf course, designed by Peter Matkovich.
Thoughtfully-placed greens that hold a well-struck shot, pristine fairways and a layout that allows you to play every club in your bag. South Africa’s first executive course, Simbithi has a par of 60 comprising par-3s, par-4s and one par 5.
Each hole is intriguingly named after the area it occupied when Simbithi was once farmland.
Situated on an old sugar farm, this bistro has delicious food, farm animals for the kids (free entrance) and a huge playground. A must visit. There are also other shops such as a crafting shed, pottery Centre and not one but two beauty salons to get your nails done or have a pamper.
Burnedale Farm Centre
Situated on an old sugar farm, this bistro has delicious food, farm animals for the kids (free entrance) and a huge playground. A must visit. There are also other shops such as a crafting shed, pottery Centre and not one but two beauty salons to get your nails done or have a pamper.
SUGAR RUSH is open 7 days a week with some attractions closed on a Monday. Entrance into the park & playground is FREE while activities are charged for individually.
Single track minded offers a full bouquet of cycling related solutions. From purchasing, servicing, coaching (both children and adults) trail building and touring.
Be part of the MAGICAL FUN experience of making slime and getting crafty with Unicorn Slime by SKYLER and Craftopia.
The HONEY EMPORIUM showcases local honey from MacBee Apiaries.
NGOZI COLLECTION produces leather products on site in their studio where they also host workshops.
Other activities include:
- Tree Trails Obstacle Course
- Ndlondlo Snake Park
- Ballito Targets Paintball
- Laser Rush
- Putt Putt
- The Jump Park Trampolining
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Sugar Rush Park
Esenembe RoadSUGAR RUSH is open 7 days a week with some attractions closed on a Monday. Entrance into the park & playground is FREE while activities are charged for individually.
Single track minded offers a full bouquet of cycling related solutions. From purchasing, servicing, coaching (both children and adults) trail building and touring.
Be part of the MAGICAL FUN experience of making slime and getting crafty with Unicorn Slime by SKYLER and Craftopia.
The HONEY EMPORIUM showcases local honey from MacBee Apiaries.
NGOZI COLLECTION produces leather products on site in their studio where they also host workshops.
Other activities include:
- Tree Trails Obstacle Course
- Ndlondlo Snake Park
- Ballito Targets Paintball
- Laser Rush
- Putt Putt
- The Jump Park Trampolining
Tree trails is a high ropes obstacle course (set in the Trees at Sugar Rush Park) which will test you in unexpected ways. It’s physical, it’s mental, it’s fun. Life is full of obstacles, some more fun than others. We are an excellent venue for parties, team building, school groups and sports teams. Please contact us for enquires. Tree Trails Original Obstacle Course R250 per person. Average time to complete is 1.5 hours, depending on ability. Gloves are highly recommended for this activity, welcome to bring your own or buy a pair for R30.
TREE TRAILS
Tree trails is a high ropes obstacle course (set in the Trees at Sugar Rush Park) which will test you in unexpected ways. It’s physical, it’s mental, it’s fun. Life is full of obstacles, some more fun than others. We are an excellent venue for parties, team building, school groups and sports teams. Please contact us for enquires. Tree Trails Original Obstacle Course R250 per person. Average time to complete is 1.5 hours, depending on ability. Gloves are highly recommended for this activity, welcome to bring your own or buy a pair for R30.
Ballito Targets
Paintball fun for everyone!
The Jump Park
Esenembe RoadTrampolining
Laser Rush Ballito
Laser tag fun for the whole family
Salt Rock is a small coastal village just north of Ballito and Shaka's Rock situated along the Dolphin Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Salt Rock Beach has an awesome tidal pool.
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Salt Rock Beach
Salt Rock is a small coastal village just north of Ballito and Shaka's Rock situated along the Dolphin Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Salt Rock Beach has an awesome tidal pool.
Great day out for the family and animal lovers. Flag is a farm yard so you can interact with different species of animals, including wolves and a few reptiles. Children can ride horses, milk a cow and enjoy the small water park.
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I-Farm yezilwane ze-Flag
Sheffield Beach RdGreat day out for the family and animal lovers. Flag is a farm yard so you can interact with different species of animals, including wolves and a few reptiles. Children can ride horses, milk a cow and enjoy the small water park.
Tiffany’s Beach is a serene beach, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. This spot is particularly popular with scuba divers and surfers, and it's a great location for windsurfing and kite-boarding. However, the abundance of rocks makes it less suitable for swimming.
Because it’s not one of the more well-known beaches, Tiffany’s Beach provides a quiet and often secluded environment. Situated north of Willard Beach en route to Rawlings Bay, it’s a fantastic place to walk your dog or bask in the sun without encountering large crowds.
Remember to pick your times carefully and enjoy a peaceful walk along this charming shoreline! Because parking spaces are scarce, it's advisable to leave your car on Shrimp Lane and walk to the beach.
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Tiffanys Beach
8 Hewitt RdTiffany’s Beach is a serene beach, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. This spot is particularly popular with scuba divers and surfers, and it's a great location for windsurfing and kite-boarding. However, the abundance of rocks makes it less suitable for swimming.
Because it’s not one of the more well-known beaches, Tiffany’s Beach provides a quiet and often secluded environment. Situated north of Willard Beach en route to Rawlings Bay, it’s a fantastic place to walk your dog or bask in the sun without encountering large crowds.
Remember to pick your times carefully and enjoy a peaceful walk along this charming shoreline! Because parking spaces are scarce, it's advisable to leave your car on Shrimp Lane and walk to the beach.
Although Granny’s Pool is a tidal pool on the larger main beach of Salt Rock, it has earned its status for being the spot of choice for families that are after safe and fun swimming. It is shallow (about waist high to an adult at its deepest spot), enjoys the warm water of the Indian Ocean, and is a little more secluded than the main beach areas.
Granny’s Pool has a rocky section and a sandy section, making it a real delight for little ones to both swim and explore. Even the not-so-little will love having a quick dip and cooling down here, while the ripples of the waves that break on the outer rocks of the beach are relaxing.
This tidal pool is situated on the main beach of Salt Rock, which is a swimming and surfing hotspot. Stand-up paddling and catching waves on a body-board are also very popular here, thanks to consistently good conditions. Lifeguards and shark nets mean that this part of the KwaZulu-Natal coastline is relatively safe for those heading into the waters.
The beach itself is fabulous for beach games, runs, walks, picnics, or just enjoying a good book. It is quieter than many of the other Dolphin Coast beaches, and this entire stretch of the South African coastline is known for its sunny conditions that last almost all year round.
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Chaka's Rock Tidal Pool
43 Ocean DrAlthough Granny’s Pool is a tidal pool on the larger main beach of Salt Rock, it has earned its status for being the spot of choice for families that are after safe and fun swimming. It is shallow (about waist high to an adult at its deepest spot), enjoys the warm water of the Indian Ocean, and is a little more secluded than the main beach areas.
Granny’s Pool has a rocky section and a sandy section, making it a real delight for little ones to both swim and explore. Even the not-so-little will love having a quick dip and cooling down here, while the ripples of the waves that break on the outer rocks of the beach are relaxing.
This tidal pool is situated on the main beach of Salt Rock, which is a swimming and surfing hotspot. Stand-up paddling and catching waves on a body-board are also very popular here, thanks to consistently good conditions. Lifeguards and shark nets mean that this part of the KwaZulu-Natal coastline is relatively safe for those heading into the waters.
The beach itself is fabulous for beach games, runs, walks, picnics, or just enjoying a good book. It is quieter than many of the other Dolphin Coast beaches, and this entire stretch of the South African coastline is known for its sunny conditions that last almost all year round.
Shopping
Shopping mall in Ballito.
Address: Cnr 398/445 Main Road Main Road, Dolphin Coast
Trading Hours:
Monday 9am–5pm
Tuesday 9am–5pm
Wednesday 9am–5pm
Thursday 9am–5pm
Friday 9am–5pm
Saturday 9am–5pm
Sunday 9am–5pm
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Ballito Lifestyle Centre
Shopping mall in Ballito.
Address: Cnr 398/445 Main Road Main Road, Dolphin Coast
Trading Hours:
Monday 9am–5pm
Tuesday 9am–5pm
Wednesday 9am–5pm
Thursday 9am–5pm
Friday 9am–5pm
Saturday 9am–5pm
Sunday 9am–5pm
3-story retail complex with brand-name shops, a movie theater & a food hall with eclectic offerings.
Address: Shop 242a and Shop 628d, Leonora Dr, Ballito, Dolphin Coast, 4399
Trading Hours:
Friday 9am–7pm
Saturday 9am–7pm
Sunday 9am–5pm
Monday 9am–7pm
Tuesday 9am–7pm
Wednesday 9am–7pm
Thursday 9am–7pm
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Nu Metro Ballito Junction
Ballito Drive3-story retail complex with brand-name shops, a movie theater & a food hall with eclectic offerings.
Address: Shop 242a and Shop 628d, Leonora Dr, Ballito, Dolphin Coast, 4399
Trading Hours:
Friday 9am–7pm
Saturday 9am–7pm
Sunday 9am–5pm
Monday 9am–7pm
Tuesday 9am–7pm
Wednesday 9am–7pm
Thursday 9am–7pm
Shopping mall in Ballito
Address: Stewart Dr, Ballito, Ethekwini, 4420
Trading Hours:
Monday: 9am–4:30pm
Tuesday: 9am–4:30pm
Wednesday: 9am–4:30pm
Thursday: 9am–4:30pm
Friday: 9am–4:30pm
Saturday: 8am–1pm
Sunday: Closed
Quarter Boutique Shopping Centre
Stewart DriveShopping mall in Ballito
Address: Stewart Dr, Ballito, Ethekwini, 4420
Trading Hours:
Monday: 9am–4:30pm
Tuesday: 9am–4:30pm
Wednesday: 9am–4:30pm
Thursday: 9am–4:30pm
Friday: 9am–4:30pm
Saturday: 8am–1pm
Sunday: Closed
Tiffanys centre
Salt Rock Road
TOPS at SPAR Tiffany
Bottle store in the Tiffany Shopping Centre.
Food scene
THE GRAND EXOTIC RHUMBELOW THEATRE
Sheffield Beach RoadSaltyz is a family friendly Bar and Restaurant, famous for wood fired Pizza's and extraordinary Bunny Chows - a Durban “delicacy” & must try for anyone visiting!
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SALTYZ on rocs
60 Basil Hulett DrSaltyz is a family friendly Bar and Restaurant, famous for wood fired Pizza's and extraordinary Bunny Chows - a Durban “delicacy” & must try for anyone visiting!
Salt Rock Hotel
59 Basil Hulett DrBest Sunday Roasts and curries overlooking the ocean… yum 😋
Siggi's German Restaurant
63 Basil Hulett DrTraditional German food at its best!
When it comes to pizza, Salt Cafe gets everything right! Their chocolate croissants are also exceptionally delicious 🤤
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Salt Café
Ocean DriveWhen it comes to pizza, Salt Cafe gets everything right! Their chocolate croissants are also exceptionally delicious 🤤
The Butcher & Wine is a smarter affair with bottles from the wine list highlighted in display shelving all the way across the back wall. It’s all dark colours and serious intent with dramatic lighting.
The menu is small and naturally steakhouse-orientated, but covers most bases. There are about five starters and some salads, a selection of steak cuts ‒ rump, sirloin, ribeye, fillet and T-bone ‒ along with lamb chops and peri-peri chicken. Burgers, either beef, chicken, mushroom or falafel, complete the picture.
Four or five seafood dishes add interest, including an Asian-inspired salmon with lemongrass, ginger, chilli, coriander and soya; kingklip done in a lemon butter and caper sauce; calamari and grilled prawns. There are combos available for those who want to mix and match.
If you feel like something a little lighter, there’s a full sushi menu, and some poke bowl options.
Butcher and Wine Restaurant
The Butcher & Wine is a smarter affair with bottles from the wine list highlighted in display shelving all the way across the back wall. It’s all dark colours and serious intent with dramatic lighting.
The menu is small and naturally steakhouse-orientated, but covers most bases. There are about five starters and some salads, a selection of steak cuts ‒ rump, sirloin, ribeye, fillet and T-bone ‒ along with lamb chops and peri-peri chicken. Burgers, either beef, chicken, mushroom or falafel, complete the picture.
Four or five seafood dishes add interest, including an Asian-inspired salmon with lemongrass, ginger, chilli, coriander and soya; kingklip done in a lemon butter and caper sauce; calamari and grilled prawns. There are combos available for those who want to mix and match.
If you feel like something a little lighter, there’s a full sushi menu, and some poke bowl options.
Donna is a casual resturant which even has a kids’ playground. It’s comfortable and charming and has a simple menu of good Italian staples.
Donna Modern Italian
Donna is a casual resturant which even has a kids’ playground. It’s comfortable and charming and has a simple menu of good Italian staples.
Saint Yves cocktail and social bar is a luxe design of primeval, tropical beauty meets modern. The interior's laidback glamour is the perfect backdrop for an aperitif before dinner, intimate drinks, signature cocktails, watch sports or enjoy late evenings with friends, whilst listening to music and enjoying live entertainment. Indulge in curated snacks and platters to accompany the extensive drinks menu and relax in comfort for intimate chats or gather the group around a table to celebrate the art of conversation in a cosy, yet chic environment.
Saint Yves Bar
Saint Yves cocktail and social bar is a luxe design of primeval, tropical beauty meets modern. The interior's laidback glamour is the perfect backdrop for an aperitif before dinner, intimate drinks, signature cocktails, watch sports or enjoy late evenings with friends, whilst listening to music and enjoying live entertainment. Indulge in curated snacks and platters to accompany the extensive drinks menu and relax in comfort for intimate chats or gather the group around a table to celebrate the art of conversation in a cosy, yet chic environment.
A favourite spot in town, the Sage Café and Deli offers visitors wholesome, healthy food and drinks with a wide variety of options. Using only the freshest ingredients the food is sublime and the atmosphere warm and relaxing.
Seating at Sage is either indoors or outside under the trees or on the wooden deck. There is also a fairly large section under cover. Parents will be pleased to know there is ample entertainment for busy children and a child minder is on hand too.
Sage also has an on-site mini ‘salon’ offering manicures, pedicures and massage – all at a very reasonable rate.
Visit Sage for an appetizingly healthy breakfast, lunch or dinner.
SAGE CAFE & DELI
1 KE Masinga RdA favourite spot in town, the Sage Café and Deli offers visitors wholesome, healthy food and drinks with a wide variety of options. Using only the freshest ingredients the food is sublime and the atmosphere warm and relaxing.
Seating at Sage is either indoors or outside under the trees or on the wooden deck. There is also a fairly large section under cover. Parents will be pleased to know there is ample entertainment for busy children and a child minder is on hand too.
Sage also has an on-site mini ‘salon’ offering manicures, pedicures and massage – all at a very reasonable rate.
Visit Sage for an appetizingly healthy breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Ray's Kitchen
Sameja DriveEVERYTHING YUM! One of the best places to eat!
Mimosa restaurant and bar at Sage Center serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinners two days a week on Thursday and Friday evenings. It has a serviced bar with cocktails, beers, wine list. Menu serving breakfast till 11:30 am and lunch light bistro, small plates pizza.
Sage Centre
Mimosa restaurant and bar at Sage Center serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinners two days a week on Thursday and Friday evenings. It has a serviced bar with cocktails, beers, wine list. Menu serving breakfast till 11:30 am and lunch light bistro, small plates pizza.
Neighbourhoods
Sheffield Beach, known as the 'Clifton' of KwaZulu-Natal, is one of the most exclusive suburbs situated a short distance from Ballito and Salt Rock. Colwyn Drive in particular is referred to as being the “Millionaire’s Mile” of the area.
Sheffield Beach
Sheffield Beach, known as the 'Clifton' of KwaZulu-Natal, is one of the most exclusive suburbs situated a short distance from Ballito and Salt Rock. Colwyn Drive in particular is referred to as being the “Millionaire’s Mile” of the area.
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Travel within the area
Vehicle access is a must when travelling within the area.
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Vacation Packing
While beach towels and other basic necessities are provided, the property is fully self-catering so please bring necessities such as Toiletries, Groceries etc.
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Uber
Uber is available but it may incur wait times.
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Fishing
Fishing is allowed on Sheffield Beach so pack your rods and tackle if you’re a fan.
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Checkers Sixty60
Delivery is readily available to the home using the Checkers Sixty60 app. This makes life a breeze when ordering essentials or drinks.
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Loadshedding
Colwyn Drive in the Sheffield Beach area is completely unaffected by Loadshedding.
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Beachwear
Bring your flip flops for long walks on the magnificent beach in front of the home.