Downwinds | Salt Rock Run

Salt Rock Run

A NE downwind from Salt Rock to Umdloti along the Dolphin coast with a distance of about 22 KM, start and finish on beaches negotiating surf. Salt Rock is a small town just north of Ballito and Shaka's Rock on the Dolphin North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It is a favorite holiday destination for many local South Africans. It is about 40 minutes north of Durban. As well as providing some fishing spots, there are reefs offshore. The main beach has lifeguards on duty, shark protected and a surfing site. Close to the main beach is a large tidal pool, which was originally built for guests staying at the hotel.


  • Salt Rock, KwaDukuza Local Municipality, iLembe District Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, 4391, South Africa

    Distance in KM
    22
    Estimated Time to complete
    1 Hr 30 mins - 2 Hrs 15 mins depending on conditions and your fitness!
  • Wind Direction
    NE
    Best months
  • Average Rating
    0.0

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  • Created
    about 4 years ago
    Last updated
    about 4 years ago
    Kindly shared by:
    downwindfun downwindfun



  • Launch from Salt Rock Beach, need to negotiate the surf to get out and then head south for some downwinds!



    This is a YouTube video from Barry Lewin on a single surfski with a double as company showing the great downwind conditions with the following comments - these are technical downwind conditions with the swell running slightly towards the shore and not directly down the coast. The chopping and confused sea make for a lot of fun and hard work.





    Finish is on Umdloti Beach again through surf







    NSRI Station 41 Ballito is one of the NSRI stations and is just before midway of this downwind.

    Recommend using RSA Safetrx there are lots of success stories on this run of waterfolk using this app.


    Have fun and please stay safe!
    Some Basic Safety Guidelines

    - It is very difficult to spot someone in the water especially in strong wind conditions, so please make sure you can be seen - use bright colour clothing. Wear a brightly coloured PFD Wear a brightly coloured rash vest ( luminous green or orange is best)

    - Use a buddy system - doing a downwind with someone else is always safer than on your own.

    - Have a VHF Radio, mobile/cell phone in a waterproof bag ( test that you can use this in all conditions)

    - Know who to call for help and be sure that your family know who to call. Be sure that someone knows where you are and when you should return. And that they will call for help if this time is exceeded.

    - Other useful tips - Use a leash from the craft to your body. Have a signal flare (hand held are best) or pencil flares. Carry a reflector / mirror. Have a whistle that works when wet. Have your name and landline number on your craft. Leave a card with your name and phone number (mobile/cell and landline) on your vehicle dashboard.


    For spring, the warmer weather and more light on the afternoon paddles. The season brings more NE tropical trade winds, these are technical downwind conditions with the swell running slightly towards the shore and not directly down the coast. The chopping and confused sea make for a lot of fun and hard work.


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