The Sugar Shack Guidebook

Wonderguide by

Martli Petrig

The Sugar Shack Guidebook

Discover all that the gorgeous Dolphin Coast has to offer!

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Accommodation

Luxury beachfront accommodation

Image - The Sugar Shack
Place
The Sugar Shack
Martli:Our very popular Sugar Shack Villa is a single-storey beach house with spectacular ocean views. The home has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms (2 en suite) with an open plan kitchen and dining room. The shack also has a spectacular ocean-facing patio with an outdoor dining area and a private swimming pool overlooking the popular promenade, tidal pool and beach. The firepit is also perfect for an evening braai with the relaxing sound of the waves crashing in the background.
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Our favourite restaurants

These are the places we like to eat

Image - Fiamma Grill
Place
Fiamma Grill
Martli:Consistent good food. Love having a sushi bowl by the pool!
Image - NIKOS Ballito
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NIKOS Ballito
Martli:Good Greek food with an unbeatable view!
Image - Taso's Bar & Grill Ballito
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Taso's Bar & Grill Ballito
Martli:Solid food, wonderful view.
Image - Kuta-Kola
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Kuta-Kola
Martli:You'll feel like you're on an island. Try the breakfast smoothie bowls (warning - they are more like sorbet than an actual smoothie).
Image - Ray's Kitchen
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Ray's Kitchen
Martli:Beautiful setting in Dunkirk Estate. Pam and her team give great service and the kitchen produces consistenly good food!
Image - The Market
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The Market
Martli:Spoilt for choice often with the added perk of live music.
Image - Mozambik Ballito
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Mozambik Ballito
Martli:Eat at THE ORIGINAL Mozambik! Great peri peri chicken & prawns.
Image - Ocean Basket Ballito
Place
Ocean Basket Ballito
Martli:You know what they're famous for! Bonus is that it is within walking distance.
Image - Toast
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Toast
Martli:Exceptional value eggs benedict!
Image - Zaras Cafe
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Zaras Cafe
Martli:Friendly breakfast!

Coffee shops & other

Not-restaurant but good!

Image - Scoop Ice Cream
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Scoop Ice Cream
Martli:Best ice cream! Love the salted caramel as well as the grenadilla sorbet! They also make great home made waffle cones.
Image - Salt Café
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Salt Café
Martli:Good pizza, walking distance from the beach
Image - The Waterberry Coffee Shoppe
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The Waterberry Coffee Shoppe
Martli:Nestled in coastal forest. Playground for the kids.
Image - Yoli's Artisan Bakery
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Yoli's Artisan Bakery
Martli:The best truffle scrambled eggs I've ever tasted!
Image - Concha
Place
Concha
Martli:Great coffee, friendly service, good breakfast.

Things to do

Fun activities to get up to

Image - Sugar Rush Park
Place
Sugar Rush Park
Martli:A great Family orientated outdoor park with wide open areas and activities to keep the family entertained and involved! Putt putt, Jump Park and train rides are sure to provide endless fun. Refreshments and light lunches available as well as secure parking.
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Image - The Litchi Orchard
Place
The Litchi Orchard
Martli:Not only is The Litchi Orchard a functioning litchi farm, but it is a green haven of good food, décor, design, craft and unique retail offerings. Over the years, it has become a meeting point for the North Coast community as well as a unique experience for visitors. At The Litchi Orchard we celebrate small business, food and farming, and creativity - focusing on the people behind the cogs. To complement our love for all things fresh and vibrant is our appreciation for the aesthetic – design and décor. Our aim is to nurture and grow community spirit and appreciation for local food and fare.
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Image - Clubventure
Place
Clubventure
Martli:A fun filled adventure for the family as well as groups, large and small. Soar to new heights on the 1.5km Zipline Tour with the "Parazip".You will feel like you're parachuting, yet you are safely connected to a Zipline cable. Experienced guides will make this a truly enjoyable tour. Clubventure has an awesome pool to cool yourself down afterwards!
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Image - Ballito Ski Park
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Ballito Ski Park
Martli:A bit of everything for the whole family—jet ski rides, tube rides, wakeboarding, water skiing, wake skating, wake surfing, knee boarding, inflatable water slide with fat boy, fishing and lots more! Outdoor restaurant, bar and kiddie’s play area, all with the most beautiful views surrounding you. If you are looking for a quiet day out, be sure to take your fishing rod with!
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Image - Rain Farm Game Lodge
Place
Rain Farm Game Lodge
Martli:Rain Farm offers a host of activities, literally something for everyone. Whether you feel like a relaxed game drive taking in our beautiful animals and gorgeous views or for something a bit more active, give our trailed walks a go, you will learn so much! The adventure hub is a huge hit, here you can try out paintball, archery and rock climbing. A picnic along our dam is simply gorgeous, and for those in need of relaxation, we have you covered – enjoy a spa treatment with us.
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Image - Ballito & North Coast Microlight Flights
Place
Ballito & North Coast Microlight Flights
Martli:To view the beautiful coastline of the Dolphin Coast from above in an open microlight cockpit with the wind in your hair and the sun in your face is an awesome, once in a lifetime experience. Enjoy the tropical splendor of our oceans and it's sea life from a bird's perspective.
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Image - Simbithi Country Club
Place
Simbithi Country Club
Martli:The jewel of the Simbithi Country Club is undoubtedly the magnificent 18-hole golf course, designed by Peter Matkovich. Thoughtfully-placed greens that hold a well-struck shot, pristine fairways and a layout that allows you to play every club in your bag. South Africa’s first executive course, Simbithi has a par of 60 comprising par-3s, par-4s and one par 5. Each hole is intriguingly named after the area it occupied when Simbithi was once farmland.
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Image - Umhlali Country Club
Place
Umhlali Country Club
Martli:Welcome to the Umhlali Country Club! Centrally located in Ballito and just a 15 minute drive from King Shaka Airport on the North coast of Kwa-zulu Natal, Umhlali Country Club offers a variety of sporting amenities as well as versatile conference and wedding facilities that cater for up to 150 guests. The Club and its members are always welcoming, creating a warm and friendly family atmosphere. The Club House and Halfway House offer relaxed environments to network with colleagues and friends while enjoying some of the delicious food and beverages on offer. The Club regularly plays host to a variety of local and international sporting tournaments and this coupled with a growing membership base is testimony to the wonderful spirit that is Umhlali Country Club.
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Image - Cane Driving Range
Place
Cane Driving Range
Martli:Two of Kwa-Zulu Natal's locals have teamed up and opened the Cane Range, Ballito's very own public golf driving range. Magnificently situated at Collisheen Estate, between the rolling hills and sugar cane fields, the Cane Range boasts a massive level fairway. Measuring 400m x 200m, we cater for the biggest of hitters!
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Image - Burnedale Farm
Place
Burnedale Farm
Martli:Burnedale Farm offers a selection of studio shops, health & beauty salons, a saddlery, a sweet shop, a dance studio and ballet shop, pottery and decor studios with a great selection of children’s activities and a play area. The animal farm has cows, chickens, turkeys, bunnies, birds, goats and potbelly pigs. Burnedale Cafe and Nosh Deli offered a great selection of meals and drinks. The Cafe offers a Souvla on a Sunday and Nosh Deli offers picnic baskets and mezzo boards over weekends to enjoy on the lawns. (please pre-book for these) The Atrium is available for private function hire, catering for 20-50 pax. We can cater for up to 100 guests using the atrium and front lawn area with a marquee or stretch tent. Freedom House Church host its service from the Shed every Sunday morning.
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Image - Ballito Brewing Company t/a The Great Railroad Brewing Company
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Ballito Brewing Company t/a The Great Railroad Brewing Company
Martli:A brewery tour is a fantastic way to explore the KwaZulu-Natal Province. This microbrewery is really accessible and easy to find. Tours and tastings are a must for visitors and beer-lovers, and can be arranged by prior appointment. The process of making the perfect beer will be explained, thereafter, each type of beer can be tasted to decide on which three to take home.
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Image - Laser Rush Ballito
Place
Laser Rush Ballito
Martli:If you are looking for an all-inclusive, unique, fun experience delivering an action-packed, adrenaline-pumping day, Laser Tag is a brilliant choice for a fun day or for your next event.
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Image - Holla Trails
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Holla Trails
Martli:Over 340kms of marked and signed trails. There are trails for both novice and experienced mountain bikers alike. Riders are amazed at the variety of track and spectacular scenery that is available. There is plenty of track for the newer riders and it will finally give many people who want to get into mountain biking the chance to get out without getting lost and risking trespassing.
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Image - Flag Animal Farm
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Flag Animal Farm
Martli:Flag Animal Farm is rated the best animal farm in KZN (by far). You will feel the passion for animal rescue, where the animals become part of the family, at peace, safe and where they know that they are loved. A real farm experience where families can walk freely with so many loving animals. Meet Dora and Mickey and all their friends! Party tables available.
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Image - Ndlondlo Reptile Park
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Ndlondlo Reptile Park
Martli:An exciting family outing with guided tours among the many indigenous snakes and reptiles that are on display. Are you brave enough to handle a snake or spider? If not, enjoy an informative and interactive talk with our well-known and much loved snake experts, Neville and Helen.
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Image - Crocodile Creek
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Crocodile Creek
Martli:With roughly 6,000 Crocodiles, this well-thought-out attraction is a hands-on, interactive Adventure for all. With walkways and viewing decks, it’s easy to watch these prehistoric reptiles up close. There are covered seating areas and a Café that serves simple meals.
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Image - Tidal Tao
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Tidal Tao
Martli:Get in touch with nature by experiencing wildlife up close and personal in their natural environment. It is safe for the entire family. If you can swim, you can snorkel! Tidal Tao also offer night walks where you can experience our Coast line and its many nocturnal creatures. Gear, refreshments and pictures included in their offers.
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Image - Monkeyland KZN
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Monkeyland KZN
Martli:Family friendly, 23 hectare hidden primate sanctuary. Multiple species of free-roaming primates including capuchin monkeys, ringtail and black-and-white ruffed lemurs and much more in their forest home beneath the tree canopies. Safari vehicles will take you to the Forest for your guided walk on foot. You are bound to see some very cute and naughty monkeys!
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Image - Lucky Linton Gold Mine
Place
Lucky Linton Gold Mine
Martli:The Lucky Linton Gold Mine is a simple but great place where children of all ages can find something unique to do. Try your luck at the gold mine; you might even find the jackpot. Lucky Linton is perfect for those that want to know what the mining industry is like. With fishing available at the well-stocked Bass dam and loads of animals to feed everyone in the family will find something to do.
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Image - Umhlanga KZN Sharks Board & Conference Centre.
Place
Umhlanga KZN Sharks Board & Conference Centre.
Martli:The Natal Sharks Board research and conservation Centre welcomes visitors (most days) to their 25 minute audiovisual display of their day to day work followed by a 20 minute shark dissection. Walk around this incredible Museum of historic shark sightings. You are bound to gain a new respect for these magnificent creatures.
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Image - Ace Karting
Place
Ace Karting
Martli:Do you have a competitive Edge? Take your entire family Go Karting at Ballito Junction Mall. Come rain or shine, this indoor track is bound to make your heart race and your ears ring. Take the inner lines, compare the times and see who comes out the winner. Night races are arranged from time to time.
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Image - Travelade Image
Place
Dirty Harry
Martli:Dirty Harry is the most sought after and popular Fishing Charter operation on the North Coast of Kwa Zulu Natal. They only cater for private charters and do not fill their boats with separate individuals to form a group . Very hands-on and focused to assist you throughout your fishing adventure (if needed). Spots are frequently chummed and you are sure to have a good catch or two and a great story to share with friends.
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Image - Travelade Image
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Redwoods Stables and Horse Riding
Martli:Explore the outdoors while on horseback. Whether you are an experienced rider or just looking for something new, these outrides and trails will keep you in touch with nature. Fantastic champagne breakfasts can be arranged to ensure you meet that romantic expectation.
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Image - Shark Cage Diving KZN
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Shark Cage Diving KZN
Martli:This is truly an exciting once in a lifetime experience – bond with family, friends or colleagues as you get close up to the many smaller species of shark found in KZN including Blacktip sharks, Dusky Sharks, Spinner Sharks, Tiger and Zambezi Sharks. If you are brave, try free diving with the many shark species and feel the power of their fins as they gracefully glide past.
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Image - Big Rush
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Big Rush
Martli:The Big Rush Big Swing has been officially named the world's tallest swing by the Guinness Book of Records since 14 May 2011. Not your average swing, the aptly named Big Swing allows you to take the thrilling leap swinging out into a massive 220m arc where you soar into the centre of Moses Mabhida stadium.
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Image - Sky Safaris - Helicopter & Fixed Wing Flights Durban
Place
Sky Safaris - Helicopter & Fixed Wing Flights Durban
Martli:One of the most memorable ways to really experience Ballito is on an exciting helicopter flip – sure to get the adrenalin coursing through your veins as you enjoy the spectacular views. A range of exciting options available. Thrilling coastal tours, mountain top picnic flights, special occasions, game reserve drop offs and more.
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Image - Durban Skydive Centre
Place
Durban Skydive Centre
Martli:Some like to enjoy the sites while their feet are firmly grounded, others prefer to enjoy the sights during one mad leap! No experience is necessary for Tandem Skydives with the certified crew having thousands of hours of experience. Mission impossible special effects not included!
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Beauty & hair

Spas, beauty treatments, haircuts

Image - Babylon Hair
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Babylon Hair
Image - My Nail Lady
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My Nail Lady
Martli:The only place I would trust with my nails!
Image - Fraiche
Place
Fraiche
Martli:Wonderful atmosphere and great treatments
Image - The Spa at The Oyster Box
Place
The Spa at The Oyster Box
Martli:It's a bit of a drive but the experience is totally worth it!

Wonderguide map

  1. The Sugar Shack
  2. Fiamma Grill
  3. NIKOS Ballito
  4. Taso's Bar & Grill Ballito
  5. Kuta-Kola
  6. Ray's Kitchen
  7. The Market
  8. Mozambik Ballito
  9. Ocean Basket Ballito
  10. Toast
  11. Zaras Cafe
  12. Scoop Ice Cream
  13. Salt Café
  14. The Waterberry Coffee Shoppe
  15. Yoli's Artisan Bakery
  16. Concha
  17. Sugar Rush Park
  18. The Litchi Orchard
  19. Clubventure
  20. Ballito Ski Park
  21. Rain Farm Game Lodge
  22. Ballito & North Coast Microlight Flights
  23. Simbithi Country Club
  24. Umhlali Country Club
  25. Cane Driving Range
  26. Burnedale Farm
  27. Ballito Brewing Company t/a The Great Railroad Brewing Company
  28. Laser Rush Ballito
  29. Holla Trails
  30. Flag Animal Farm
  31. Ndlondlo Reptile Park
  32. Crocodile Creek
  33. Tidal Tao
  34. Monkeyland KZN
  35. Lucky Linton Gold Mine
  36. Umhlanga KZN Sharks Board & Conference Centre.
  37. Ace Karting
  38. Dirty Harry
  39. Redwoods Stables and Horse Riding
  40. Shark Cage Diving KZN
  41. Big Rush
  42. Sky Safaris - Helicopter & Fixed Wing Flights Durban
  43. Durban Skydive Centre
  44. Babylon Hair
  45. My Nail Lady
  46. Fraiche
  47. The Spa at The Oyster Box

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