Sun, Sand, & Cocktails

The Midlands MagazineOctober 18, 2022

Escape to the pristine North Coast and the lovely town of Ballito for a coastal holiday with this guide created by the locals just for you!

Have you ever wanted to escape? Not like a fugitive, but more to have an adventure or holiday. The Midlands is an easy escape for the concrete jungle residents or people who adore nature, but what about the locals who eat, sleep and breathe this area? Where is your escape? Wherever it may be, I have an option I think you might like.

 

 

 

The small town I’ve called home for my 21 years of living has always been a holiday destination for people from far and wide. This town is also home to The Midlands Magazine’s sister mag, The Ballito Magazine. Before going on a holiday, I like to jot down the places I want to see or the food I want to try, so we went to our readers of The Ballito Magazine and asked them. Think of this as your locals’ guide to Ballito.

Starting with the most important first step, accommodation. In Ballito, we have many options, from relaxed to a bit of luxury. You’ll find something that suits your needs with these three superb accommodations. If you are looking for a breakaway, just you and your partner, look no further.

Book your perfect beach vacation at the Sugar Shack Penthouse! This ultra-modern and luxurious one-bedroom, two-sleeper, self-catering penthouse has straight access to Clarke Bay beach, and the festive upstairs rooftop area has THE BEST view. It has a private rim-flow pool and intimate firepit, perfect for sundowners overlooking the Indian ocean.

Maybe you want something luxurious but for the whole family? Well, Coco de Mer Boutique Hotel is a perfect choice. Situated in the heart of Ballito’s hotspots and within strolling distance to pristine beaches. They offer seven luxury sea-facing suites, six forest view suites, and five family suites that have been architecturally designed to offer unique perspectives, each with a private balcony.

The hotel provides elegant a-la-carte dining in beautiful surroundings at its restaurant, Fiamma Grill, which draws inspiration from fresh Italian cuisine. The restaurant extends onto an outside deck, which engulfs diners in a sensual plethora of sights and sounds provided by lush, tropical gardens of epic grandeur, with the magnificent Indian Ocean beyond.

Still close to the beach is where understated luxury and elegance create an atmosphere of effortless comfort, style, and relaxation. Perched against the hill, commanding magnificent sea views, The Vineyard on Ballito has redefined and raised the standards for guest house accommodation. Personalised amenities and unsurpassed service cater to your every need and are all part of the luxury experience you can expect as a guest. Inspired by the beauty of South African vineyards, great care has been taken to create their seven luxurious suites, each designed to transport you into your private sensual haven for the duration of your stay with them. Airy patios and bedroom balconies make the most of the sweeping views of the North Coast.

Your Locals Guide 

Below find a list of the coolest spots as suggested by the locals for you to enjoy on your holiday

 

 

Morning Pick-Me-Up 

Morning coffee from Bench Coffee, Salt Rock

Coffee at Skyline, Sage Centre

Freshly brewed coffee from Mellownello, Sheffield

 

 

 

 

Fabulous Food 

Calamari from The Fish Factory

Sourdough wood-fried pizza from Breadologie

A foraged feast at Mfino, Sheffield

Live life in pink at Sophie’s Cafe for lunch, Litchi Orchard

Family lunch at La Piazza

A lovely dinner at The Market, Lifestyle Centre

A Japenese experience at Yori Oki, Lifestyle Centre

The famous peri-peri chicken from Mozambik restaurant

Breakfast at Concha – must try their pastries

Beach view breakfast at Kuta-Kola

 

Drinks 

Sundowners at the Salt Rock Hotel

While looking for whales or dolphins, a cocktail or a tank beer at Hops

Cocktails with a view at Tasso’s

Tapas and cocktails at Conchilla (over 24 after 5pm, no slops + vests)

 

 

 

Fun Activities 

Wine tasting picnic at the Social Oak, Burnedale farm

Visit the hole in the wall at Thompson’s Bay

Sunrise walk on the promenade

Beach picnic at Christmas Bay, Sheffield Beach

A fun-packed day at Sugar Rush Park

Visit the monthly Sugar Market, Salt Rock Country Club

A game drive at the Rain Farm

A ride or run at Holla Trails, Sugar Rush Park

Hang in the trees at Tree Trails, Sugar Rush Park

Feeding animals at the Flag Animal Farm

Learn to surf with the Ballito Surf School

A family outing to Monkeyland

 

Words: Kai Coates