North Coast
The Zulu Kingdom's North Coast, also known as the Dolphin Coast, stretches from Zimbali to the mighty Thukela River. This is the playground of the bottlenose dolphins which frolic in the waters close to shore and are visible all year round.
North Coast Highlights
The North Coast stretches from Zimbali to the Thukela River and the area is renowned for bottlenose dolphins which are visible in the waters close to shore all year round, hence the name Dolphin Coast. Visitors can choose from luxurious resorts to cosy guest houses, remarkable natural beauty, sport and history.
The area is renowned for fine dining, evening entertainment, excellent golf courses or just a stroll along the North Coast enjoying the scenic beauty of the region. The North Coast is also home to a large Indian community and visitors can enjoy delicious spicy dishes and curries or shop for fresh produce at any of the numerous markets.
- Known as the Dolphin Coast and runs the Indian Ocean Coastline from Durban to Richard's Bay.
- Visit the Empangeni Arts and Crafts Centre for products created by local communities.
- Umhlanga is one of South Africa’s most popular seaside resorts with its picture-postcard red and white lighthouse.
- Walk through indigenous sub-tropical forests enjoying the spectacular birdlife at Zimbali, or horse ride along golden beaches lapped by the warm waves of the Indian Ocean.
Fairmont Zimbali Lodge boasts a 3km stretch of unspoiled beachfront and has several natural spring lakes, which create a beautiful habitat to the 85 species of bird, hosts of butterflies and the wide variety of indigenous plant life.
Byways Beach Retreat is conveniently located for a varied holiday experience, is it is situated en route to Hluhluwe and Umfolozi Game Reserves and the St Lucia wetlands, and is only 8 minutes from Ballito and 30 minutes drive north of Durban.
How to Get there
Sun Safaris can arrange scheduled flights for guests from most major airports to Durban International Airport and Pietermaritzburg Airport. Once guests arrive at the various airports, self-drive guests will collect their rental car, maps and directions, booked by Sun Safaris and depart on their safari or holiday. Private air transfers can also be arranged from Durban airport to a safari lodge of your choice. Guests can self-drive from anywhere in South Africa to the North Coast in KwaZulu Natal and Sun Safaris can arrange a rental for the trip. The drive time will obviously depend on your route.
North Coast Activities and Attractions
The North Coast's most popular attraction is its Dolphin sightings, beautiful beaches and exploring the small coastal towns. The area offers a large variety of outdoor activities; including, mountain biking, cycling, hiking, Micro-Light flights, quad bike rides, the King Shaka Heritage Route, Ballito Art Gallery, fine dining at various restaurants, the Fever Tree Market in Ballito and hiking in various reserves. The North Coast also offers a variety of spa treatments and shopping facilities.