Weekend Guide to Ballito

I had the privilege of spending a slow, sun-kissed weekend in Ballito thanks to my future mother-in-law — and my mama ended up joining too, which meant one thing: a girls’ weekend. The perfect kind.

We arrived on Friday afternoon to the loveliest apartment on Compensation Beach Road. They were doing maintenance on the building, so there was scaffolding on our balcony, but honestly? It wasn’t a big deal. The workers wrapped up about two hours after we arrived and we barely noticed anything after that.

This little getaway was all about relaxing, doing whatever felt good in the moment, and soaking up the gorgeous weather. And because it turned out to be such a perfect combination of chill and fun, I wanted to share it — partly for you, partly for future me.

Your 2-Night Ballito Guide

Day 1: Arrive, Settle In & Cook Something Cozy

There’s something special about christening a new space with a home-cooked meal. It makes it feel like yours for the weekend. We kept it simple with pesto gnocchi, lots of laughter, and a glass (or two) of wine.

Day 2: Promenade Walks, Markets & Beach Moments

Starting your morning with a walk along the Ballito promenade, warm sun, ocean breeze, and, of course, a well-deserved coffee at the end.

Head back, freshen up, and make your way to the Ballito Farmers Market. It’s a lovely mix of plants, fresh produce, clothing stalls, and irresistible breakfast options. Bagels, Thai noodles, hotdogs (my choice!), whatever you’re craving, you’ll find it.

Next stop: Wedgewood for ice cream. Non-negotiable.

By then our thirst needed attention, so we popped into Alchemy for a dirty martini. My first one — and truly, exceptional.

Before heading home, we stopped at Tops (genuinely the nicest bottle store I’ve ever walked into) and somehow ended up doing three tastings thanks to in-store promos. A fun little surprise.

We were back at about 3pm, with dinner booked for 6pm. This is where you choose your path:

A quick beach session or a nap reset.

Naturally, I chose the beach. We packed a cooler bag and wandered down to the sand. We forgot an umbrella, but amazingly, a man was renting them out — another reminder to always carry a bit of cash.

We stayed about 40 minutes. That’s the magic of staying right by the beach: spontaneous dips and mini adventures feel effortless.

Back we went to shower and get ready for dinner.

Dinner at Al Pescatore

We booked at Al Pescatore, Ballito’s oldest restaurant. On arrival, we weren’t given the table I had specifically requested (which frustrates me — don’t say “no problem” if it is a problem). But look, one tequila shot later and after moving to the promised table, my shoulders unclenched. She works every time.

The meal was lovely:

• A baked camembert and focaccia to start — delicious.

• Seafood mains (their specialty) — mine was okay, everyone else’s was great.

• And the unexpected highlight: their cucumber and basil smash cocktail. Unreal.

• For dessert, I had a coconut tart with a marshmallow-like texture — light, sweet, and refreshing.

Day 3: Tidal Pools & Brunch at Grand Exotic Café

For our final morning, we took a dip in the tidal pool — the perfect goodbye to the ocean — then cleaned up and headed to Grand Exotic Café.

I am not exaggerating when I say it’s one of the most beautiful cafés I’ve visited in ages. Think whimsical décor, wedding-venue charm, and a vintage store full of treasures and trinkets to browse.

Do not skip the carrot cake. You will regret it. The aubergine fritters are also a must.

If you ever find yourself planning a getaway to Ballito, consider this your gentle, sun-drenched guide. Simple days, good food, spontaneous moments — the kind of weekend that leaves you glowing.