Not so long ago, Ballito was more synonymous with retirement living than with young families and working professionals looking to enjoy breezy beachside homes. In fact, there was a time when Umhlanga was the favoured coastal destination in KZN that saw my family and I bypassing many great options in Durban just to enjoy restaurants with sea views.
But recently, a new contender has emerged – calmer, cultivated, yet still carefree. It’s this balance of laid-back charm without the over-the-top flashiness that’s made Ballito increasingly popular in recent years.
Many historic sugar cane farms that once stretched along the North Coast have been replaced by roads, shopping malls, car dealerships, and business parks. Yet these modern amenities haven’t compromised the seaside charm and neighbourly feel of Ballito. Spanning suburbs such as Shaka’s Head, Port Zimbali, Shaka’s Rock, Salt Rock, Umhlali, Sheffield Beach, and Tinley Manor Beach, it serves as the open-hearted gateway to the Dolphin Coast.
A New Era for Ballito
Just 20 kilometres from King Shaka International Airport, and following seven years of planning and approvals, construction is underway on Southern Africa’s first Club Med resort, set to open in July 2026 at Tinley Manor Beach. With the only other African outposts in Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia, the arrival of the French resort chain marks a new era for Ballito – one that builds on a decades-long boom that has seen the town transform into one of South Africa’s most popular beach destinations.
That same call attracted twin brothers Ayanda and Andile Ngidi, who have become major players in the area’s hospitality scene.
Twins Peaking: The Ngidi Brothers
In 2024, the duo opened three establishments in Salt Rock: Donna Modern Italian, Butcher & Wine, and St Yves Bar. Raised in Glenwood, Durban, during their high school and university years, they noticed that the social scene was shifting northward.
“We had an events business and decided to start trading in Ballito from 2010,” says Ayanda. “Over the years, we watched the slow growth as more and more people expressed a desire to drive out for the weekend, or even for a day.”
Seeing the residential developments and infrastructure improvement of the area was a sign that Ballito was on the cusp of a greater boom. The brothers anticipated there’d be big opportunities to come and, in 2023, decided to move there permanently.
Initially, the plan was to open one restaurant, but when they realised a potential neighbouring tenant wouldn’t complement their establishment, they pivoted. “The second store was big, so we subdivided it into two. Now with this vacant space, we had to figure out how to fill it without taking away from the first Italian restaurant,” recalls Andile.
With their hospitality background and the anticipated interests of the local market, the brothers decided on a grill/sushi house and a stylish bar — a calculated gamble that proved accurate.
Riding the Residential Boom
In April 2025, their flagship restaurant, Donna Modern Italian, hosted the launch of a new housing development, Salt Rock City. Buyers arrived as early as 4:30am to secure a place on the estate, with more than half of the available units selling out within the first two hours. The development includes 188 freehold and 189 sectional title units.
Alongside gated developments such as Zimbali Estate, Umhlali Golf and Country Estate, and Simbithi Eco Estate, luxury hotels and lodges have increased the residential capacity of the area. When it was first marketed in the mid-1950s to potential investors, the tagline was “Buy, Build & Play at Ballito Bay, The Caribbean of the North Coast.” Decades – and much infrastructure – later, that adage seems to be coming to fruition.
Five Things to Do in Ballito
- Explore Art at The Gallery
Featuring paintings, drawings, prints, mixed media works, ceramics, and sculptures, exhibitions run throughout the year, while occasional classes are offered at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre.
- Visit Ballito Farmers Market
More than 200 stalls cover home decor, fashion and jewellery, cosmetics, fresh produce, pantry staples, and even plants. Food lovers can enjoy Korean, Thai, boeries, and crêpes among the culinary offerings.
- Snorkel the North Coast
Water that’s warm year-round makes the tidal pools along the North Coast of Durban delightful for marine life and snorkellers. Run by Tidal Tao, these underwater safaris allow visitors to spot fish, octopus, sea hares, corals and other marine life.
- Stroll the Promenade
Seasonal dolphin and whale sightings are common, while tidal pools, rock formations, and sand sculptures provide regular delights. The four-kilometre walk from Salmon Bay to Willard Beach can be extended to Salt Rock.
- Indulge at Sala Spa
At the 5-star Sala Beach House, Sala Spa offers oceanside rest and rejuvenation. Beyond massages, guests can enjoy yoga, reiki, and sound baths.
