Things to do in Zimbali - The essential guide
“At the beach, life is different. Time doesn’t move hour to hour but mood to moment. We live by the currents, plan by the tides, and follow the sun.” – Anonymous
If you’re on holiday on the Dolphin Coast you’ve probably heard that when it comes to having unforgettable fun experiences, Zimbali is no-doubt the land of plenty. You chose this holiday destination for a reason. There are so many things to do in Zimbali. Whether it’s because it is a premier travel spot or because it offers luxurious accommodation and world-class facilities, Zimbali certainly offers a lifestyle that is hard to beat. A visit to this paradise feels like you’ve just stepped into your own private world.
This is your essential guide to Zimbali.
Zimbali Estate – The Quintessence of Lavish Estate Living
Zimbali has all a holidaymaker would want and more. From award-winning accommodation to breath-taking landscapes, this coastal-forest resort ticks all the boxes. Whether you want to lounge around a pool sipping cocktails or play a round of golf with your buddies, Zimbali never disappoints when it comes to unforgettable adventures.
Couples, individuals and families will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the activities that are on offer in and around Zimbali. You can indulge in great food choices, leisure sports, hiking, bird watching, mountain biking and more. There are also miles of deserted beaches and coastal vegetation that give rise to some of the most spectacular views you will ever see. If watching whale sharks swim by or dolphins frolicking in the warm, deep blue Indian Ocean sounds like your kind of holiday, you’ll be glad you chose Zimbali.
What is Available for Holiday Guests Staying In Zimbali?
Zimbali Valley of the Pools
Maximise your Experience in this Tropical Getaway.
Besides the postcard-perfect beach, Zimbali Estate is home to the Valley of the Pools (VOP). It’s a haven for sun lovers and nature seekers alike. Relaxing and taking in the panoramic views overlooking the Indian Ocean is the stuff that dreams are made of. Immerse yourself in the rim-flow pool surrounded by a natural and stunningly beautiful wonderland. Take the family for a walk along the water’s edge and see if you can spot a fish eagles’ nest or perhaps you will stumble upon some grey herons.
If you’re just looking to have some alone time, why not get lost in your thoughts as you sit by the flowing waterfall in the VOP Lakes area? The Valley of the Pools is a truly magnificent place to hang out, explore, and make memories. Whether you’re relaxing on a poolside recliner and getting some much-needed vitamin D, or sitting on the top deck of the restaurant hoping to spot a whale, the VOP is an incredible place to revitalise mind, body and soul. There’s a heated pool so you have no excuse not to take a dip if the weather is a bit dreary.
After a day of fun in the sun, why not head over to the VOP Restaurant for some soul food? As you dine on scrumptious cuisine, you have a view overlooking the sea and pools. You’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Heaven. Sink your teeth into some fresh large Zimbali oysters, bite down on a juicy burger, or indulge in some delicious Sushi. e
Zimbali Restaurants
Dine on Mouth-watering Meals
FIREROOM ZIMBALI
Fireroom Zimbali has a special ambience to it. Located in a hotel, The Capital Zimbali, this restaurant provides “the finest indulgences life has to offer.” From the classy décor to the food and service, everything is impeccable. Fireroom has a fun and trendy vibe to it and has scenic views of the beach and Zimbali pools.
This tastefully decorated eatery has an extensive menu that includes everything from oysters to Wagyu burgers and beef tomahawk. Their trademarked “Sushi on Fire” is flamed at the table. If you’re looking for fine dining at its best, we suggest you pay a visit to Fireroom Zimbali and get ready to be wowed.
BCC Cafe
If you’re looking for a child-friendly restaurant frequented by free-spirited people, the BBC Café is for you. Situated in Zimbali Estate, Bush Buck Café caters for a variety of tastes including vegetarian options at reasonable prices.
It’s a great place for both parents and kids to hang out, unwind and enjoy some delicious food in a peaceful atmosphere. From pastries to pizzas, they offer hearty meals and superb service from friendly staff. If you want to build up a sweat before enjoying a meal, you may enjoy playing a round of tennis on 1 of Zimbali’s 4 flood-lit courts next door to the BBC Café. If you’re little ones are looking for some fun, they may enjoy a ball around the mini soccer field also located at the BBC Café.
The Bar Experience
POISON IVY LOUNGE
Poison Ivy Lounge is an exclusive venue known for its carefully crafted aesthetic and magnificent sea views. Situated in the Capital Zimbali, this is the place to unwind and enjoy your drinks with good conversation in an easy-going atmosphere. They have an extensive drinks menu that includes wines, cognacs, mocktails, champagne and more. Smokers can choose from a range of Cuban cigars to suit a variety of tastes.
TROPHY BAR
Situated at the Zimbali Lodge, Trophy Bar is the spot for wine, cocktails, or gin lovers. It’s an eclectic, contemporary venue that offers patrons beautiful ocean views and superior service that’s sure to impress. It’s a great place to snap some pic’s for your socials.
ZIMBALI BEACH CLUB
Zimbali Country Club
Time to Tee Off
Calling all golfing enthusiasts! If you’re looking for an 18-hole course that offers not only breathtaking sea views but well-kept fairways and true greens, then the Zimbali Country Club is where you should be. This world-class facility will have you feeling like royalty from the moment you arrive.
Whether you’re a member or a guest, there’s a clubhouse where you and your golfing buddies can relax and enjoy drinks or a bite to eat after your game. This venue exudes that personal touch and has a truly idyllic atmosphere. There is a wide variety of food and drink options to choose from so your preferences are sure to be met. Tee off at Zimbali Country Club and experience golfing in paradise.
Renting a Golf Cart
When staying in Zimbali, renting a golf cart is a great idea. Not only will it make it easier to access all the facilities, but you’ll also avoid the hassle of getting a speeding fine. Zimbali has strict speed limits in place to ensure the safety of the natural habitat and its animals. To ensure a hassle-free experience, we recommend requesting a list of companies that offer golf cart rentals when you make your booking. This is particularly important if you’re planning to visit during a peak period when demand for golf carts can be high.
Book Accommodation ahead of your Travel Date
Zimbali boasts arguably some of the most luxurious holiday accommodation in South Africa. These sought-after lavish apartments and villas offer divine ocean and forest views and are undeniably the epitome of luxury living. These upmarket accommodation venues are always in high demand so we suggest you book your accommodation ahead of your travel date. This way, you will get accommodation with the features you want. Why risk not getting the home you want, or worse, not getting oneat all?
Shopping near Zimbali
“Whoever said that money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping.” – Bo Derek. There’s nothing a bit of shopping can’t fix and the Dolphin Coast has some amazing shopping centres to keep all ages entertained.
Just a short 5-minute drive from Zimbali Estate is the Ballito Junction Shopping Centre. It has over 200 stores that offer entertainment, dining, shopping and more, all under one roof. It’s a modern and elegant 3-level mall with state-of-the-art entertainment facilities. Shop anything from footwear to home décor and everything in between. Ballito Junction offers the ultimate in convenience and enjoyment.
Did you know that Gateway Theatre of Shopping is one of the top 100 largest malls in the world? Well, now you know. This is the place to be if you’re looking for the ultimate in entertainment. There’s go-karting, bowling, cinemas, a funfair and much more. It boasts over a whopping 380 stores, so if you decide to visit, plan to spend the entire day here.
Ballito Lifestyle Centre is the ideal place if you’re looking for a more relaxed shopping experience. This beautifully designed centre has that “personal touch” to it and will have you feeling at home as soon as you enter. Their stores include food, family and style so you can enjoy a convenient, easy and authentic shopping experience.
Zimbali Beaches
Beach Adventures
Zimbali Beach offers visitors 3km of unspoilt beach within the Zimbali Estate where you can relax and unwind after your day’s activities. There is strictly no swimming allowed at Zimbali’s private beach, however beach strolls and a game of volleyball is encouraged.
There is a plethora of incredible swimming beaches minutes from Zimbali Estate, including these popular options to name a few:
4.9km to Willard Swimming Beach
5.1km to Thompsons Swimming Beach
3.3km to Salmon Beach
14.6km to Sheffield Beach
5km to Westbrook Beach
Zimbali Spa
Indulge & Relax
Located within The Capital Hotel is The Mangwanani Signature Spa. Relax your mind, body and soul while you’re pampered with decadent therapies from some of the finest qualified therapists available. There’s a relaxation room, therapy room, Himalayan Salt room, as well as indoor and outdoor pools that all guarantee a 5-star experience.
Hiking & Nature Trails in Zimbali
Within Zimbali Estate you’ll find a 50-hectare reserve where you will experience the resort in all its glory. Whether you’re taking a brisk run or a leisurely stroll, you are bound to spot a variety of animals that call the resort home. From bushbuck to blue duiker and vervet monkeys, this is a nature lover’s paradise. There is an abundance of indigenous plant life and birds that you can observe from viewing decks strategically placed along the pathways. Visitors can run, cycle or walk along hiking trails that stretch for miles. A visit here is bound to leave you relaxed and refreshed.
The Eagle Trail is 2.98km in distance and ideal for bird lovers who will likely spot a crowned eagle, fish eagle and variety of water birds. The Robin Loop Trail is 1.3km in distance and moderate in difficulty. Highlights include Bushbuck and Forest Canopy Birdlife. The Strike Trail is moderate and 3.05km in distance where guests will likely see Blue Duiker, many butterflies, ocean views and Red Milkwood Trees. The Mountain Bike Trail is 4km x2 in distance and provides a challenging route through Zimbali’s beautiful coastal forest.
We Recommend Self-Catering Homes
If you prefer privacy over a crowded environment, choosing a self-catering home in Zimbali will offer you privacy, peace and independence. Many of them are usually large and spacious enough for families and friends, so choose wisely based on your requirements. It’s often a good idea to chat to a specialist before you book to ensure you get the right home based on your needs. When you book a home in Zimbali you can access Zimbali’s facilities at your leisure. Browse through the Pangolin Collection website and explore a number of carefully selected and vetted properties in Zimbali to find one that’s perfect for you.
Escape To Paradise in Zimbali Today
Zimbali truly is a paradise that releases your “happy hormone.” It’s a mesmerising other-worldly escape that ensures an unforgettable experience regardless of your needs. From immaculate facilities in a serene setting to world-class eating and drinking establishments, Zimbali has it all and more. Whether you’re a domestic or international guest, Zimbali has an appeal that’s hard to ignore. It’s a destination that offers an extensive range of unforgettable holiday experiences no matter what time of year you decide to visit.