La Mercy, Dolphin Coast

La Mercy, a secluded little village on the southern edge of the Dolphin Coast, is set just south of Ballito and roughly 25 kilometres north of Durban. It is a coastal conservancy that, together with Umdloti, is also one of the best beaches from which to view the annual whale visit, whilst dolphins visit this coastline all year round.

The advantage to staying at La Mercy - its proximity to Durban, Ballito and other north coast highlights aside - is that the town is essentially small. Roughly 450 households live along its beachside, and peace and quiet, as well as 'small town' atmosphere, are yours most of the year round. But you will find enough shops and restaurants close by not to feel marooned, and the proximity of the N2 makes travelling very easy. Alternatively use the old beach road along this part of the coastline, as it is particularly beautiful. Just be prepared for the journey to take a little longer.

This is typical of the Dolphin Coast - seaside resorts within close driving distance of one another, each with access to beautiful beaches and each with a typical seaside holiday quality. Just up from La Mercy, which has its own airport, is the extremely popular Ballito, regarded as the heart of the Dolphin Coast, and Shaka's Rock, which has access to a really lovely tidal pool and good stretch of sandy beach.

Umhlanga Rocks and access to Gateway Shopping Mall is but 11 kilometres from La Mercy, the Sibaya Casino a mere 7 kilometres, and locally you have access to fishing, kite-surfing, paddling, sea kayaking and snorkelling. What more do you need to make a holiday of it?