Cidade Turismo
South Africa

Before you go

Your trip to Ballito.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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Ballito – KwaZulu-Natal Destination Durban and the northern coast

How to get there

  • Aeroporto Internacional King Shaka (DUR) La Mercy · 15 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

From King Shaka Airport (DUR), Ballito is about 15 km via the N2, roughly a 15-minute drive. From Durban it’s about 45 km on the N2, around 40 minutes. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available.

How many days

Two or three days of beach. Ballito is also a one-night stopover en route to iSimangaliso to the north.

When to go

Winter, from May to August, is dry and mild, with pleasant sea and humpback whales passing offshore. Summer is hot and humid, and the town gets busy in December.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Tip. The beaches and promenade are walkable, but restaurants and shops are spread across town.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Ballito
  1. Morning
    Ballito promenade

    Walk along the waterfront promenade, among the rocks and beaches.

  2. Afternoon
    Thompson's Bay

    Spend the afternoon at Thompson's Bay beach and swim in the tidal pool.

  3. Late afternoon
    Salt Rock

    Head up to Salt Rock in the north to see the rocks and natural pools at low tide.

  4. Evening
    Dinner near the beach

    Dine at a waterfront restaurant.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Ballito?

Beach, the waterfront promenade and tidal pools like Thompson's Bay.

How far is Ballito from Durban?

About 45 km, roughly 40 minutes via the N2.

Is Ballito near the airport?

Yes, about 15 km from King Shaka Airport.

Can you see whales in Ballito?

In winter, humpback whales commonly pass offshore and sometimes appear near the beach.

Back to Ballito