Taste the KZN terroir

Book a car to head inland to Summerhill Guest Estate, a family-owned country house perched high enough to see the entire coastline—from the port all the way to Ballito. Award-winning chef-patron Johannes Richter serves six- and eight-course tasting menus that reflect KwaZulu-Natal’s cultural crossroads—African, Indian, and European—using indigenous ingredients like amadumbe (taro), sorghum, and subtropical fruits (including seven varieties of banana) sourced from the estate's gardens and trusted small-scale farmers within a 93-mile radius. Before lunch, join a chef for a tour of the kitchen garden, where you’ll learn the heritage of each plant and spot stars of the season’s menu. Then sit down for a wine tasting led by Richter’s wife, Johanna—Summer Hill’s sommelier and manager—who curates personal picks from her 200-bottle cellar of South African wines, with a focus on natural, low-intervention, and organic producers with impressive vintage depth. Expect to linger for several hours over lunch, soundtracked by a classic South African jazz playlist.

Meander through the artsy Midlands

The KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, a scenic plateau between Durban and the Drakensberg, has evolved into a creative enclave where artists, winemakers and craftspeople have settled among the lush green hills. Hire a driver to explore the Midlands Meander, a loosely linked route of studios, tasting rooms, and workshops. Start at Abingdon Estate, KwaZulu-Natal’s first certified winery in Lions River, for a tasting and leisurely lunch of sharing boards and small plates served by the fireplace or beneath the vines. Continue to Nottingham Road village, where the original Ardmore Ceramics studio displays whimsical hand-painted pottery by more than 70 African artists. At Shuttleworth Weaving, browse handwoven mohair rugs and throws made on traditional looms. Nearby, sculptor Brendon Edwards displays monumental bronze works in a garden of indigenous plants, while ceramicist Astrid Dahl offers bespoke pieces from her studio—both by appointment. Wrap up at Rawdons Hotel with craft beer from Nottingham Road Brewing Company and no-nonsense pub fare on the terrace.

Learn to surf on the Dolphin Coast

Ballito, one of the north coast's most desirable enclaves, has built its reputation on easy beach and airport access, abundant nature, and a relaxed lifestyle that draws Durbanites in search of the good life. Start your morning at Concha Cafe, where Ballito's early birds—cyclists, runners, surfers—gather over coffee and Portuguese-style pastries, including perfect pastéis de nata. Then head to Ballito Beach for a lesson with Ballito Surf School, where experienced instructors and new equipment make learning easy at one of the coast's most forgiving breaks. The school teaches all levels, from first-timers to those refining their technique. Or simply stroll the paved promenade, watching for dolphins and whales—locals say they spot dolphins almost daily. Stop by The Gallery at Lifestyle, a hub for local clothing brands, artisan goods, and occasional live music. For lunch, drive south to Bel Punto in Umdloti, where South African Italians serve homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and salads. Order the calamari on the terrace and watch the waves roll in.