Six dog friendly beaches to visit in Ballito

Ballito is home to an array of breathtakingly beautiful beaches.

While dogs are not allowed at the lifeguard protected swimming beaches, believe it or not there are a few dog friendly beaches that are perfect for a day out with your pet pals.

With a lead in hand and the necessary ‘tools’ to clean up after your fur-baby, there is no reason why you can’t spoil your pet with a sunny, sandy afternoon walk.

The beaches are ordered from 1 to 6 as they lie along the coastline from the northern most Christmas Bay to Zimbali beach in the south.

1 & 2. Sheffield Beach and Christmas Bay

These beaches are frequented mostly by divers, fishermen and Sheffield residents walking their dogs.

From Christmas Bay you can see Tinley Manor, and walk there if so inclined, but be sure to keep your dogs close on this walk as it is a secluded stretch of beach.

Also read: Beaches of the Dolphin Coast

It is also important to keep your fur-baby on a lead, or keep one on hand in case of other dogs on the beach.

“Pet owners need to keep dog etiquette in mind when walking on the beach or at the park,” said Gaby Lyle of Ballito’s Forest Hills dog club.

“If you see another dog approaching, make sure you keep your dog on its lead before introducing them.

“Allow them to become more comfortable in each other’s company before letting them run around without a lead. Many pet owners are quick to say their pets are friendly, but this is not always the case,” said Lyle.

3. Catfish beach

Catfish beach lies south of Salt Rock main beach, which boasts plenty of parking, a wide sandy beach and great waves for the surfers.

However, dogs are not allowed on the main beach so keep your leach in hand if you need to walk past the main swimming area.

Another form of dog etiquette to bare in mind is to ensure you pick up after your pet pal when walking along the beach.

“Recently I have noticed that many people don’t pick up after their dogs,” said Lyle.

“Most of the beaches and parks have bins provided, it is up to you as the owner to take whatever is necessary to pick up after them, especially on popular beaches.”

4. Thompson’s Bay – hole in the wall

Thompson’s Bay is arguably the most beautiful of our swimming beaches.

While the main swimming beach may not be technically open to pets, walk through the ‘hole in the wall’ to discover a number of picturesque coves, made striking by the limestone rock formations of the cliffs.

This is where you can let your furry friends roam around on a sunny afternoon.

5. Salmon Bay – The home of ice creams and seafood

The Ballito Ski Boat Club is situated at Salmon Bay, making it another great beach for dog walking.

This busy stretch of beach has ample space to allow your dogs to roam around.

What makes Salmon Bay special is that directly up from the beach are not one but two pet friendly restaurants, proof of how much our locals love their pets.

So if a walk on the beach makes you thirsty you could check out the canine menu at The Galley Beach Bar and Grill, or if you walk into Concha Bakery and Cafe (ice cream anyone?) they will make your pets welcome with a complementary bowl of water.

6. Zimbali beach

Slightly further south is Zimbali beach, accessible from the parking on Fouch Le Roux Lane.

After Christmas Bay this is probably the best beach for stretching your hound’s legs.

Although slightly more secluded, it is a great spot to take your pet pals for a walk.

The Forest Hills dog club arranges a monthly beach walk along this beach.

To find out more about the dog club contact Gaby Lyle on 082 9825 6481.

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