Dinner table discussions about which of Ballito’s super estates rank as the best is common, but is there a right answer?

Ballito is fortunate to have some of the best estates in the country and many, I can confidently say, are world class.

If you subscribe to the North Coast Courier’s “Best of Ballito” awards, then you will know that Simbithi Eco Estate has been voted as best for the last two years, with Palm Lakes Estate coming in second and third, and Zimbali Estate and Brettenwood Coastal Estate claiming the balance of the places.

The common answer to this question however is that it is really in the eye of the beholder. I truly believe you cannot go wrong with any of them; they are all high quality.

But they do all differ in their offerings, so it’s actually about which one(s) align best to your requirements.

It is not hard to see why Simbithi has topped the charts for the last two years. Its location is the most central in the wider Ballito area, it has an executive golf course, the facilities are excellent, and so are the wildlife and the trails.

Palm Lakes Estate on the other hand, bar the golf course, matches many of these aspects, has a skate park and is seen as exceptional value.

The new interchange and shopping centre coming in the next 12 months will also bring it much closer to everything.

Zimbali Estate, which was certainly the premier estate a few years ago, seems to be making a comeback in terms of popularity, which is perhaps backed up by being voted second best in last year’s Best of Ballito awards.

It has direct beach access, a rare attribute in Ballito estates, a top-quality golf course and excellent leisure facilities.

Brettenwood Coastal Estate has always been held in high regard. It has a fantastic retirement section, an excellent clubhouse and great security – which could relate to the fact that short-term lettings are not allowed.

And if you are looking for the more boutique, smaller, more tranquil or less dense estates, then Dunkirk, Elaleni Coastal Forest Estate, Springvale, Loxley and Sheffield Beach Estate all fit the bill perfectly.

And what about the future? Which estate will be topping the table in a few years’ time?

Any of the above could easily fulfil that role but I would be inclined to put a big bet on Seaton Estate, which as part of the Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate with offerings that could beat them all.

With the new gatehouse and entrance almost complete, and the interchange onlmonths away, its accessibility is about to be greatly improved.

Current facilities are superb and soon to be added will be an equestrian centre, an cricket pitch, many other sport facilities as well as the new school that will be opening in 2027.

Seaton Estate has some of the best uninterrupted sea views of any estate in the area, has direct beach access and a new beach clubhouse currently in planning.

It really is a beautiful piece of property on a gorgeous and tranquil part of the coastline, plus it is on the doorstep of Club Med where construction is coming on well.

With all this, it will certainly be an estate to be reckoned with over the next 10 years.

That’s my opinion,at this time, but the dinner table debates of the best estate today and in 10 years’ time will, I’m sure, offer many different outcomes.

Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.

Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.