Sheffield Beach is the most northern resort town on Kwazulu Natal’s Dolphin Coast. Popular with avid snorkelers, Sheffield Beach is filled with beautiful rock pools, as well as superb fishing and diving spots. As the name, Dolphin Coast, suggests there are regular sightings of Dolphins and Whales in the water. A variety of other interesting sea life also makes these waters popular with scuba diving enthusiasts. Sheffield Beach is situated just a short distance from Ballito, which is always a hub of activity, and a 40min drive from Durban.
Things to do
Sheffield Beach is known for having some of the best secluded snorkelling spots in the area. The quiet atmosphere of this beach, and lack of crowds, make it superb for some real adventuring. The abundance of marine life and many safe rock pools and secret coves, are sure to capture your imagination.
Sheffield’s northern most beach, Christmas Bay, is also known for having some of the greatest fishing and diving spots. It is only natural that any fishing enthusiast would want to get some quality fishing time in a spot which is quite possibly one of the most scenic stretches of Kwazulu Natal. Both fly fishing and spear fishing are possible in the area.
Near to Sheffield Beach, in Salt Rock, you will find Tiffany Shopping Centre. This centre provides a restful and casual shopping experience for both locals and holiday makers. You will find everything from grocery shops to fashion boutiques and cosmetics.
Just a short distance away you will also find Salt Rock Beach, with its excellent surf and beautiful offshore reefs for diving. Surfing at this spot is no worry as the waters are protected by shark nets and lifeguards. Also a great family beach with excellent picnic spots and lots of open space for beach games.
Need to spend some time revitalising? The nearby Oceanview Day Spa, in Ballito, offers a diverse range of body and beauty treatments to help you do just that. Set in a tranquil Tuscan villa, this spa has unsurpassed ocean views. It also has state of the art equipment and a hydrotherapy spa bath to help you unwind.
Where to eat
Azura Restaurant and Cocktail Bar has an undoubtably Mediterranean influence with spectacular ocean views. A great spot for relaxed cocktails or a romantic dinner. Items on the menu range from delicious steaks to Portuguese-style chicken.
The Pantry at the Vineyard specialises in delicious German baking. Syrupskuchen, Stollen, Weinachts Pfeffernasse (spice biscuit) and Nusstaler (hazel nut biscuit) are just a few items you'll find on the menu at this delightful coffee shop in Ballito. They also offer early breakfasts and light lunches.
Fiamma Grill, found in Ballito, is an Italian grill house, specialising in superb cuts of grain fed and matured meat. This grill is a family run business and pays close attention to providing personal attention and friendly service.
Also just a short distance away in Ballito, you will find La Piazza, continental cafe and restaurant.La Piazza is an authentic Italian restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere, serving meals from breakfast through to dinner. It is family friendly dining at its best with a fun pizza/doh play section, as well as an outdoor jungle gym.
Where to stay
Self catering, B&Bs and guesthouse accommodation is available in Sheffield Beach. Many offer spectacular oceans views, and are situated right on the beach.
Transport
Car Rental: The easiest way to get around Sheffield Beach is by car, which can be booked either at King Shaka Airport or online
Air: Sheffield Beach is situated approximately 27km from King Shaka International Airport.
Taxi/cab: Various taxi services are available in and around Sheffield Beach, which are great for short trips.
Did you know?
Sheffield Beach, Salt Rock and Tinley Manor have intricate reef formations that move beneath the waves, harbouring a multitude of marine life.
With a valid licence one can go hunting for crayfish, mussels and oysters in these parts.
June to November is the ideal time to do some whale watching, so stay on the lookout for Humpbacked whales.
A special spot overlooking the sea, just off Barrier Drive, will give you a clear and magnificent view of all of the beaches in Ballito.
