Ballito North to Salt Rock Trail

About Ballito North to Salt Rock Trail

The KwaZulu-Natal coastline is rugged in places, pristine in others. It is sometimes wild, sometimes welcoming, and always spectacularly beautiful. The trail that winds along the beach from Ballito North to Salt Rock is only five kilometres long, but offers plenty of breath-taking views and gorgeous photo backdrops along the way.

This trail takes about an hour to complete, when walking at a comfortable pace. Along the way, you will come across incredible rock formations and platforms, gorgeous stretches of white sands and blue waters, and tidal pools that are irresistible after a walk in the hot South African sunshine. They are also safer for little ones as there are not huge waves and strong currents. What's more, there is plenty of marine life to explore and discover.

During the summer vacation season, there is a fabulous vibe here. Artists create amazing work in the sand on the beach, families tan and play on the warm sands or in the temperate waters of the Indian Ocean, and tourists come from all over the world to enjoy the laid-back vibe and near-perfect weather conditions.

Those wanting to tackle the trail from Ballito North to Salt Rock can park, go down the steps and then turn left onto the beach. Cross the beach and head to the rocky Shaka's Rock. Cliffs lie ahead. But, to avoid the rocky section during high tide, there is a path over the top of the hill. Just before reaching the final stretch to Salt Rock, there is the tempting tidal pool. Walk along the scenic Umhlali Beach, before finishing the hike at the Salt Rock Salt Caravan Park. If you do not want to walk the full distance back to your car, arrange for friends to collect you.

Salt Rock and Ballito are about 45 minutes from Durban.