Why we LOVE life on the Dolphin Coast

Life ticks to a different clock on the Dolphin Coast – mornings start with a sunrise surf session and end with a sunset selfie over cocktails.

It is an idyllic setup which is infused with interesting culture cliques and oozes the perfect balance of that chic beach hippy lifestyle.

We live a holiday – out of season we have a top beach destination all to ourselves and in season, we rent out our homes and go on holiday while stocking up the piggy bank and giving tourists a piece of life on the Dolphin Coast.

We are foodies, coffee connoisseurs and cake specialists.

For a real coffee bean treat visit Science of Coffee at The Market, Lifestyle Centre. Run by Salt Rock’s Alessandro Craparo or simply ‘Sandro’, this coffee spot has made it their mission to make the best of the bean. Sandro even went as far as doing a PhD in the science of coffee.

While you are at The Market – meander around and try out their delicious artisan food options while enjoying live music performances – a must over the weekend. If the boys are keen for a beer, Robsons is a great spot for a cold draught and they have a pretty pink beer for the ladies too – Cherry beer…

For a quaint local experience where you can rub shoulders with some sexy surfers, pop into Salt Cafe for a wood-fired pizza and enjoy people-watching while you slurp on one of their killer ice coffees.

Speaking of pizza, make sure not to miss Zimbali Wedge’s Col’Cacchio’s Twosday – two pastas or pizzas for the price of one, all day, every Tuesday, sit-down only. Before you get your Italian on, pop into OK Food’s amazing liquor store and get a good bottle of vino which you can take with to the restaurant – and here’s the best part – there is no corkage fee. Buon Appetito!

Regardless where you eat or enjoy a cuppa, you will always experience one thing – that beautiful sense of community. The Dolphin Coast is a tightly-knit community that stand together and help each other.

This characteristic probably come from our strong farming roots – being the land of sugarcane and more recently macadamias. Take a drive out into the sugarcane and enjoy the rolling green hills or hop onto a bicycle at Holla Trails at Sugar Rush Park and head out into nature on one of their fantastic trails built and designed by a fascinating Dutch cyclist, Jasper van Vessem.

During your visit, it is essential that you stock up on two Dolphin Coast must-haves – slops (we live in them) and samoosas.

These triangular Indian savoury snacks are iconic in our melting pot of cultures and Cindy’s Fresh Produce in Umhlali is just the spot to go to for your hit of these spicy beauties.

Cindy is every Dolphin Coaster’s favourite aunty and she is sure to get you hooked on her samoosas and fresh-from-the-farm veggies. While in Umhlali, pop into Second Chance on the Old Main Road for some inspiring old world furniture and pre-loved goods sourced from all over.

Pop into Taspa in Salt Rock to complete your local look with one of their colourful, hippy-inspired items that will instantly give you that relaxed vibe we love to live.

Right, now you are ready to head to the beach. You of course have to take a selfie at the hole in the wall at Thompson’s Bay and go on a little trip further north to visit Zinkwazi beach – a gorgeous spot to relax and unwind.

I love where I live…

Aida Gengan – Ballito Fat Rabbit Bakery

“Everything is convenient, close and safe. I love living in Seaward Estate because it has a garage at either entrance and I always need petrol! We also have two big Woolies stores – what more could you ask for?”

Thobezweni Zondi – Etete Ballito Service Station

”People on the North Coast are very social and are always united. I like living so close to the beach. “

Terry Dearling – Simbithi Partners for Possibility

“Ballito is the warmest community with the biggest heart… I love going to Salt Rock Beach for sundowners, Concha’s for coffee after riding, Fig Tree restaurant for a casual lunch and 45 on Eat Street for a special spoil.”

Samson Ndlovu – Ballito Ballito Veterinary Clinic

“I have been living in Ballito for 37 years and I love the friendly people and the seabreeze.”

Kylie Bornman – Salt Rock Kipekee Studio

“We love and adore where we live because of the beautiful weather, paradise views and incredible community. Some of our favourite spots include Wonderland Coffee, Salt Cafe, Yoils for a breakfast bun and Granny’s Pool at Salt Rock Beach.”

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