This latest décor trend is not just about aesthetics, it brings into focus the larger picture of our impact on this planet and how we can bring environmentally conscious practices into our homes to influence our day to day lives.

One of the main aspects of sustainable interior design is the use of eco-friendly materials, such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, and recycled plastic. These materials not only have a lower carbon footprint but also add unique textures and character to the design. Another trend is the use of energy-efficient lighting and appliances, which can significantly reduce energy consumption and save money in the long run.

Sustainability goes beyond the materials and appliances used in a space. It encompasses the design philosophy of reducing waste, repurposing old items, and choosing products with a longer lifespan. For example, instead of buying new furniture, homeowners can opt for upcycling old pieces or investing in high-quality furniture that will last for years.

Incorporating sustainability into interior design not only benefits the environment but also promotes a mindful and conscious lifestyle. It encourages us to make conscious decisions about the products we buy and the impact they have on the planet.

Interior design through the ages

Where interior design once only focused on purpose, we now see that it serves an even bigger role to uplift a space, creating a mood of expansiveness, contemplation or even a theme of sustainability, bringing our minds into alignment with the natural world around us.

Interior design has always mirrored a global consensus where colour, form and function meet, creating global design movements such as the fun mustards and oranges of the 1970’s or the bright floral wallpapers of the 1940’s introduced by designer Dorothy Draper when she put her magic touch on the Greenbriar Hotel. In 2022, we’re a global community that wants to showcase our philosophies and motivations in our living spaces, and sustainability is playing a big role.

What is sustainability?

Simply put, sustainable development is ‘development that allows us to meet our own needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.’ This definition was first coined in 1983, by the World Commission on Environment and Development. To understand their position, it is simply that the current generation should not use all our resources in striving for our present goals. In recent years, with the growing spotlight on climate change and deforestation, sustainability has begun to feature in interior design.

Sustainable design

At Pebble Beach, sustainability begins with our modern architectural design of floor to ceiling windows that welcome in more natural light to your living space. This aids in saving electricity usage and being more mindful of how the sunlight is a vital source of life. Pebble Beach has created a design where the outside is naturally brought into the home, where views of the Sibaya Coastal Forest and the ocean are a glowing reminder of your connection to nature.

A closer look at sustainable interior design in your home

When it comes to sustainable interior design trends in the home, not only does this entail your own personal choice of energy and water conservation methods, but it also looks at how furniture and artwork featured in the home can become more sustainable. Think recycled materials such as wood, cork, steel, and rubber used to create unique pieces in your home and creating indoor furniture from sustainable materials such as bamboo, reclaimed wood and recycled steel.

Sustainable materials tend to have a unique history of their own, adding to the charm of using it in your space. Just ask celebrity Daryl Hannah, who has filled her home with non-toxic recycled items that she renovated herself. Or, actress Emma Watson, who wears red carpet high-end fashion made from end-of-line fabric from a family-run London business specialising in couture fabrics.

Using these items can have a long-term positive effect on the environment and on your own ingenuity. Imagine creating a tablecloth from end-of-line fabric from your local dressmaker or creating couture curtains!

From the looks of it, being sustainable requires quite a bit of planning in order to refurbish an existing item in your home, take up DIY as a hobby or find an expert who can help you in this regard. The commitment is worth the reward as it will reorient your goals and help you connect more with the natural environment. As more young homeowners delight in taking on these home projects the interior design trend towards sustainability continues to grow.

Indulge Yourself

The luxury spas near Pebble Beach offer a range of indulgent treatments to pamper and rejuvenate your body and mind. From massages and facials to body wraps and hydrotherapy, these spas use the finest products and techniques to ensure a truly relaxing and restorative experience.

Many of these spas also offer additional amenities such as saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs, as well as fitness facilities and healthy dining options. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a busy day or simply treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering, these neighbourhood gems are the perfect choice.

So why not escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and treat yourself to a day of luxury at one of the many exceptional spas near Pebble Beach? Indulge in the finer things in life, sip on a glass of champagne, and let all your worries melt away.

Wellness is yours

Regular spa treatments are a must for taking care of your physical and mental health. When your body is given time and space to relax, you are able to do more with your day and see everyday problems in a whole new light, with less intensity and more creative ways to solve them. Spa treatments help to increase your blood circulation, giving you a similar feeling to having a full body workout. This can improve your complexion and increase your flexibility. Having a massage can also help to reduce your blood pressure, calming the nervous system.

Take that well deserved me time and book in at the spa. For many, just having the time to yourself is a meditative experience that will boost your confidence and give you renewed zest for life. Take a look at the luxurious spa options you have available close to home.

Mangwanani Sibaya Orange Spa

Across the road on the opposite side of the Sibaya Circle lies Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom, home to Mangwanani Spa. Walk down a picturesque, winding path to the quaint setting of a small Zulu village where Mangwanani Spa finds its home. Relax in this welcome oasis of luxury treatments by expert massage therapists. Indulge in one of their famous spa packages for a half day, full day or unique Moonlight Night Spa experience. Soak your tired muscles in one of their secluded jacuzzis or take a dip in one of two pools in the central courtyard. Enjoy their popular couples’ packages as you celebrate an anniversary or treat your loved one to a pampered day out.

Visit their website to book you next appointment at Mangwanani Sibaya Orange Spa

The Spa at The Oyster Box

Located barely 500m from the shores of the Indian ocean itself, The Spa at The Oyster Box is an experience like no other. Guests enter through a separate entrance from the hotel and are instantly transported to a European villa where lush green plants and a canopy of trees line the path to the grand doors of the spa. Inside, let the soothing music and expert staff melt your troubles away. Choose from traditional massages to crystal therapy and exclusive signature treatments using international skincare brands. Live your best life when you book in at this beautiful spa for a weekend treat or a special birthday.

Visit their website to book your next appointment at The Spa at The Oyster Box.

Camelot Spa at The Pearls Mall

Travel a short distance from your home at Pebble Beach for a world-class, luxury spa exclusive at Camelot Spa at The Pearls Mall. This South African treasure has over 20 branches in the country at unique, luxury destinations. Guests at Camelot Spa receive the utmost care and professionalism.  This top quality, luxury haven has built a reputation for training their massage therapists to expertly find the aches and pains in your body and gently work them out. The spa offers traditional massages, skincare therapy, beauty treatments, wellness assessments and kids’ packages.  Treat yourself, you deserve it.

Visit their website to book you next appointment at Camelot Spa at The Pearls Mall.

If you’re looking for luxury spas near Pebble Beach then these neighbourhood gems are for you. Delight in the finer things in life as you toast to a day well spent at the spa.

Secure living at Pebble Beach

From the moment you drive into the Sibaya circle on Heleza Boulevard where Pebble Beach is situated, there is a sense that you’ve entered a safe, protected area. The Sibaya precinct is a series of office blocks, cafés and residential estates in a sophisticated, integrated design that has a constant security presence. You’ve entered, not just the roadway to your estate, but a larger community where you can rely on neighbours, and on the neighbouring estates that call Sibaya Precinct home.

Manned gatehouse

Greet the friendly security guards on your way into the estate, scan your secure estate biometrics and rest assured that your vehicle and your person is safe: this is the lifestyle we promote at Pebble Beach. The gatehouse is responsible for signing in your guests and informing you when your guests enter the premises. No unwanted persons will be able to enter the estate or access your property with these mechanisms in place.

It is also an added peace of mind that our security personnel will get to know you by name and are aware of the vehicle you drive. This type of vigilance is why secure estate living is in such high demand in South Africa.  There is a personal touch of that old village charm, while still being on the lookout for our residents’ safety. With these measures in place, you can enter the estate feeling relaxed and confident in your safety as you approach your home.

Perimeter fencing

Strong, secure, perimeter fencing surrounds the estate, ensuring that while you are within our boundaries you can let your guard down and feel at home. Take up running or walking in the morning and explore the grounds at your leisure. You can spend more time working on your health and fitness goals or simply be outside in the green, meditative environment without any worries.

We have cultivated an outdoor area that we want residents to freely use. This is the epitome of resort life where everyday is as if you are on vacation. Come down to the resort style pools and relax on our pool loungers, enjoy a home-style picnic and let the kids use the slides. Living in our secure estate means that you can get to know your neighbours at the pool, partake in braais together and let the kids play together at the pool or on the lawns.

24-Hour CCTV presence

All the facilities at Pebble Beach are strictly for the use of our residents and their guests. We have CCTV presence in our public areas which monitors the comings and goings of the day. The footage is routed to a secure, central monitoring hub accessed by the security presence onsite. From our rooftop 3-hole putt-putt to the grounds and back up to the rooftop pools, you will be able to unwind after a long day’s work in true resort style. For those who aim to work from home, you can feel secure within your apartment and take regular breaks by visiting our public areas, or even bringing your work to the pool for a change of scenery.

Our facilities management team are housed within the Sibaya Coastal Precinct and are on hand to attend to any work needed within the estate. Maintenance of our facilities is essential to ensure a safe environment for all.  Within our estate, we abide by a general code of conduct, assisted by our Body Corporate rules.  You can feel at ease knowing that your neighbours, and anyone new joining our community, are aware of the secure estate environment we promote and endeavours to uphold this.

With your well-being and safety taken care of, you have the lay of the land at Pebble Beach. Plan your days full of family activities and let your kids make friends in the complex with full access to our kids’ play area and jungle gym. Envision your Pebble Beach home as the perfect oasis where you can commute to work daily, spend time with family hosting the latest rugby game or travel to the area’s latest bars and restaurants. Make the most of your new home in Pebble Beach, where a new lifestyle awaits.

Fairmont Kea Lani: Maui, Hawaii, United States of America

Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui is a beautiful sprawling beach resort with accommodation in family suites, hotel apartments and two and three-bedroom villas. Within the grounds you can make use of the family-style, resort pools including two-lagoon pools with a water slide, two whirlpools, a kid’s pool and a serenity pool with a bar. The resort is connected to Polo Beach, a pristine white sand beach with small tidal pools created by the lava rock formations within the area.

While the kids enjoy the fun kids club activities, take advantage of Willow Stream Spa on the property and try out the ‘Inspire your energy’ wellness programme which includes yoga, meditation, nutrition and fitness activities. The resort also offers a window into Hawaiian culture where you can join in unique cultural ceremonies, canoeing and a fun selfie scavenger hunt. You can also take a leisurely stroll through the resort’s curated, artisanal shops where you can find locally made jewellery and exclusive apparel.

For more information, visit their website: https://www.fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui/

Katathani Phuket Beach Resort: Phuket, Thailand

Situated on Kata Noi beach, 35 minutes from central Phuket, Thailand, Katahani Resort is a haven of crystal blue waters and modern resort facilities. Large, spacious rooms overlook the pools, lawns and palm trees with expansive views of the blue horizon along the Andaman Sea. Extend your relaxation under the trees at Tew Son Spa with unique treatments designed in creative outdoor settings. For the adrenaline seeker, water activities at this resort includes E-surfing, crystal kayaking and paddle boarding. You can also take boat tours out to neighbouring islands.

The resort has 6 swimming pools including dedicated splash pools and relaxation pools, steps away from the beach. Join the day at the pool where you can be served drinks and lunch for the ultimate relaxing holiday you’ve been craving. For the kids, there is a pool playground with jungle gym equipment in the water – an incredibly sight to be seen. The kid’s club is also available from 9am-5pm facilitated by a trained activity and arts instructor.

For more information, visit their website: https://www.katathani.com/

Montage Laguna Beach: Laguna Beach, California, United States of America

Montage is a luxury escape in California’s prized Laguna Beach. For opulence and a taste of the celebrity life book your stay in this sought-after resort spanning 30 acres. Enjoy your stay in large king size rooms, villas and suites with balconies overlooking the resort and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The resort offers days trips out on the Pacific where you can charter a boat, surf, kayak, snorkel and do a spot of whale watching. For an inland activity you can try your hand at golf, hiking or cruise through the town in your own hired Cadillac – an exclusive partnership established between Cadillac and Montage.

The Hotel offers a large pool area, known as the Mosaic pool – adjacent is a smaller kids’ pool and whirlpool. Laguna Beach is known for its arts and culture scene, make a day trip into town to explore the art museums and galleries and enjoy the laidback Californian lifestyle.

For more information, visit their website: https://www.montagehotels.com/lagunabeach/

Grand Palladium White Island Resort & Spa: Playa d’en Bossa, Ibiza, Spain

If you’re heading to Ibiza, Spain, then the Grand Palladium White Island Resort & Spa is a must see. The hotel spills out onto Las Salinas Beach where you can visit a stretch of beach clubs during the day and popular night clubs when the sun goes down. Bordering the resort is the Ses Salines nature reserve and if you look out your window during the summer months, you can find flamingos wading through the surf.

Inside the Grand Palladium, you will find a luxurious poolside resort where you can sunbathe your cares away. Facilities are shared with the Grand Palladium Palace Resort – accessed via a bridge. You can enjoy the best of two enormous pools, gym, tennis courts, yoga and fitness classes, restaurants, a kid’s pool with jungle gym equipment, 3 kids’ clubs and a Spa. There is also a live band each night to salsa the night away.

For more information, visit their website: https://www.palladiumhotelgroup.com/en/hotels/espana/ibiza/ibiza-playabossa/grand-palladium-white-island

Moon Palace, Cancun: Cancun, Mexico

Moon Palace offers an all-inclusive stay with top restaurants, pools, beach access, night life and trips into Cancun to experience the local hospitality. The resort facilities include golfing, an arcade, skate rink, live music shows and all-day poolside fun with swim-up bars and exceptional service. The kids will also love the ice-cream and sweet shop inside the resort.

Explore nearby caves and sea life with dedicated snorkeling tours and come back to your luxurious hotel room with views of the Yucatan Peninsula or the lush, green golf course that is part of the resort. The best time to go to Cancun is in December when the weather is cooler in this tropical hotspot, so start making plans today!

For more information, visit their website: https://www.moonpalacecancun.com/

Closer to home

An around the world trip does sound tempting but why go through the long haul when you have resort-style living right here in Pebble Beach with the inviting Sibaya Beach and Umhlanga Rocks Beach within minutes from home.

Pebble Beach offers you resort-style living all year round with access to our superb pools, kids’ water slide and mini-golf on the roof. Our estate was made to bring back the vacation ‘feels’ all-year round.

Whether you’re looking for a new place to call home or you are just in Durban for the festive season, reserve your stay at Pebble Beach for that pampered, relaxed, resort feeling.

Summer is the season we wait for all year long. Slow days in the sun, afternoons by the pool, walks on the beach and meals around the fire. Summertime is best served with a side of glorious sunshine which makes the mild climate of the North Coast one of its major drawcards. This, combined with a stunning stretch of coastal shoreline, means residents can enjoy seaside pursuits and outdoor hobbies under the sun – just as nature intended.

Catch a tan

Pebble Beach is one of Sibaya’s few beachfront developments. The luxury resort-style development offers its homeowners and residents easy beach access within a secure, family-friendly environment, via the managed Sibaya Coastal Precinct forest boardwalk.

Previously bordered by iconic North Coast sugar cane farms and undeveloped coastal vegetation, the lush coastline of Sibaya Coastal Precinct’s best-kept-secret beach is full of potential. At Sibaya Beach, just south of Umdloti main beach, visitors can enjoy the soft white sand and warm water of this gem totally undisturbed by crowds. Soak up the sun and make the most of those sand-between-your-toes moments without having to go too far.

Get out and about

Summer is the best time to get out and about, whether enjoying experiences in nature or taking advantage of the local social calendar. With so many things to do on the North Coast, Pebble Beach is within easy reach of popular local entertainment and leisure activities. Next time you’re looking beyond the usual list of things to do, consider visiting:

• Flag Animal Farm
• The Litchi Orchard
• Ndlondlo Reptile Park
• Zimbali Golf Course
• Prince’s Grant Golf Course
• Sugar Rush Park and Holla Trails

Fuel your appetite

Christmas in summertime is perhaps the best part of living in the southern hemisphere. We’ll gladly exchange indoor fires for ones outside under blue skies, it’s part of our South African identity! At Pebble Beach, sunny days are best spent around the estate’s very own braai pods complete with pretty pergolas for shady respite.

Or, if you’d prefer gastronomy from someone else’s kitchen, within 10 minutes you’ll find amazing eateries and restaurants including:

• Olive & Oil
• La Casa Nostra
• Butcher Block
• Little Havana
• Doppio Zero
• The Grill House

Shop up a storm

The festive season also means retail therapy, and lots of it. Forget the large commercial centres and city mega-malls. There’s a special simplicity in being able to shop, eat or spend leisure time somewhere local. Within easy reach of Pebble Beach, you are conveniently placed for shopping with these malls situated along the picturesque North Coast:

• Marine Walk Shopping Centre
• Gateway Theatre of Shopping
• Ballito Junction Mall
• Ballito Lifestyle Centre
• New Salt Rock City
• Tiffany’s Centre

Stay at home

Even if you decide to stay home, you’ll find Pebble Beach a vibrant, social and energetic place to spend your summer days. The resort-style all-inclusive estate prides itself on bringing together the best lifestyle facilities and amenities.

• Resort-style pool with supertubes and three rooftop pools
• Childrens’ play area
• Braai pods with pergolas
• Three-hole putting green
• Recreational sports field

Ultimate summer lifestyle

You can live the ultimate North Coast summer lifestyle when you live at Pebble Beach within the Sibaya Coastal Precinct. This estate combines magnificent sea views, lush coastal forest and a holiday atmosphere within a secure, family-friendly residential feel. This region is known for its warm beaches, laidback culture and tourist attractions, as well as family entertainment, shopping and sprawling luxury residential estates. What are you waiting for?

On trend

‘Plant-based’ has been trending for some time now and is sure to ramp up in 2023. From plant-based or vegan food to herbal medicines, plants are popular. In KwaZulu-Natal’s sub-tropical climate, where we’re truly spoilt for choice and where most plant varieties thrive without too much fuss, you might want to consider taking up this nature-inspired theme in your home décor, if you haven’t already.

What indoor plants should you choose?

If you’re living in one of the luxury resort-style apartments or penthouses at Pebble Beach, you’ll want to opt for bold, lush plants in your home that will stand up to the coastal air. And if you’re a family on the go, it’s important to choose hardy, low-maintenance greenery as well. In line with the beachfront development’s magnificent ocean views, lush coastal forest, and holiday atmosphere, lush indoor plants will bring the outdoors in and enhance the relaxed and leisurely pace at which life in Pebble Beach Sibaya should surely be lived.

Our top 7 picks

Here are our top 7 indoor plants for coastal living. You can easily find them at local nurseries and stores or perhaps even take a slip of an existing plant from a friend, as they grow in abundance in our region.

Fiddle Leaf Figs

The plant with pear shaped leaves that Instagram is in love with, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is a ficus variety plant. They come from the tropical jungles of West Africa to grace magazine pages everywhere. From a little pot on a tabletop to a large pot on the ground that can stand elegantly tall, these natural epiphytes will update your interior instantly. They need lots of bright but filtered light and you should water the soil as soon as it gets dry.

Snake Plant

We acknowledge that the name isn’t quite accurate, but the name has stuck for people. Actually called, Sansevieria, the plant is native to Africa, particularly Madagascar, and their tall leaves – also referred to at times as mother-in-law’s tongue – are fairly unmistakable. They add height to a room and can even be used to create an illusion such as soft screening between open-plan living spaces in your apartment.

Sansevieria are easy to care for and only need to be watered when the soil has become dry, and it only needs medium to bright sunlight.

Parlour Palm

Palm trees are a cornerstone of seaside décor schemes. They add to the ambiance of coastal-style living. Their slim arched leaves have movement and because you can get them to grow as tall as your ceiling, they also add drama. The Bella Palm or Parlour Palm is a common house plant that is easy to grow. They need moderate light and moist soil with good drainage. Also consider Areca Palm or Kentia Palms, which enjoy humid weather.

Ponytail Palm

The Ponytail Palm isn’t actually a palm, it’s a hardy succulent, yet it can still add great beachy vibes to a coastal-style home. Ideal for a tabletop, the Ponytail Palm likes bright indirect sunlight, and enjoys its soil on the drier side, – you may only need to water it every two to three weeks.

Bird of Paradise

Bird of Paradise has beautiful large leaves and requires a good amount of space because of how large it may grow. It adds sophistication to a space such as a patio or living room and needs bright indirect light. During the hot months of spring and summer, it needs to be watered regularly and prefers moist soil.

Rubber Tree

The Rubber Tree or Ficus Elastica, with dark green or burgundy leaves, likes bright indirect light and moist but not constantly wet soil. These plants are fantastic adaptors and can even be manipulated in shape. If you wish to keep your plant small, keep it in a small pot.

Elephant Ear Plant

The Elephant Ear Plant is a beautiful tropical-looking plant that can grow to be very large, which is how it got its name. These plants like soil that is moist and being in a spot where they can receive bright indirect light. Elephant Ear Plants also enjoy humidity; therefore, you can help them by spraying them with water once a day or keeping them over a tray of water and pebbles.

Tips and advice

If you have pets or small children, ensure you are not purchasing a toxic plant. Remember to opt for plant pots with good draining holes. You may also choose to place your plant in a regular plastic nursery pot then place that pot into a decorative pot or basket. On-trend pots are actually woven baskets in 2023, look for Jute or natural weaves. Plain white ceramic, wood, or artisanal-looking pots are also very chic. Hang your plant in a macramé to really look on fleek. Also, be sure to wipe the leaves with a damp cloth from time to time to ensure your plant is looking its best and thrives.

Dolphin spotting

From your balcony at Pebble Beach or most commonly seen from Ballito’s Dolphin Coast, dolphins can be spotted all year round. Nothing beats the magical sight of seeing a dolphin jumping through the waves. Some may even be lucky enough to spot a family of dolphins in tow. Whales are another spectacular sight that can be spotted between September and October along the North Coast.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, dolphin spotting on the Dolphin Coast is an experience not to be missed. So, grab your binoculars or book a tour and get ready to witness the beauty of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Family friendly activities with the kids

Kids love the outdoors and when you live in the city you can be hard-pressed to find a family activity outdoors that the kids will love. On the the KZN North Coast there are a  number of fun, engaging activities that the kids will love!

Sage Centre in Salt Rock is a family favourite. You can enjoy an artisanal, hearty meal at the café while the kids run circles on the jungle gym, jumping castle, soccer field, kids’ zip line and scratch patch. There is also a range of artistic, bohemian fashion boutiques to keep mom happy too!

The Animal Flag Farm in Ballito is filled with fun farm animals to delight the kids. There are indoor playgrounds and an outdoor pirate ship for the kids to play on. From gentle horserides to a rare sighting of wolves, there is fun for everyone.

Overflowing with natural produce

The North Coast is known for its abundance of sugar cane fields and green rolling hills. It truly makes for a beautiful landscape. Along the coast there are a number of farms that  bear fruit throughout the year. In the summer months of December to January the North Coast produces an overflowing crop of mangoes and litchis. The local produce is sold all along the coast. In Winter, avocadoes are the crop of choice. Enormous butter avos make their way to Durban and the surrounding areas and the taste is incredible.

Shop, eat, unwind

It’s a shopper’s paradise on the North Coast. Gateway theatre of shopping on the Umhlanga Ridge offers over 400 retailers and 70 restaurants to choose from. In Ballito, The Ballito Lifestyle Centre and Ballito Junction meet all your shopping and household needs. The outdoor courtyard at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre is reminiscent of a European high-street with a range of international cuisines to choose from. Closer to Pebble Beach Sibaya, Mangwanani Spa at Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom has the best massage therapists in Durban to help you unwind from your week.

A highly anticipated addition to the host of retail on the KZN North Coast will be Marine Walk Shopping Mall. Set to open in October this year, the mall will feature a unique outdoor design with a central green where restaurants will spill out on to, and kids can have fun on the jungle gym. The mall will also feature live music on the weekends. Plenty of stores are set to take up shop in this vibrant new location including Spar, Woolworths Food, Silver Island, Dischem and Mugg & Bean.

Marine walk will be just 5 minutes away from Pebble Beach, offering residents and vacationers the perfect night out, or quick trip to get groceries. You can easily pop into the frozen for you store for a microwave meal or grab a new beach outfit at the Woolworths Edit or Milady’s.

Beach Walks

Nothing beats a walk on the beach with the distinctive swell of the ocean in your ears and the fun of people watching on the horizon. When you live at Pebble Beach Sibaya, a relaxing beach walk is minutes away from your front door.  Did you know that walking on beach sand has really great benefits for your health? The shifting sand is softer on your joints and helps a stiff body to loosen up.

What are your top 5 things you love about KZN North Coast? We hope our list inspires you to make every moment count and soak up the good times of north coast living.

It’s no secret that Durban is home to some of the best beaches in Southern Africa. With various spots along both the North and South coast from the Durban harbour to Ballito, the warm Indian Ocean is home to a range of marine mammals like the bottlenose dolphins and majestic whales.

These sites, of which there are only 2 now worldwide, are recognised for their efforts as ‘responsible’ whale and dolphin watching sites. The World Whale Conference was held in Durban a few years ago and inspired 2 local enthusiasts from Sodurba Community Tourism Association to make application for Durban to be recognised.

This accolade bodes well for The Bluff and Durban as a whole by attracting both local and international interest as well as promoting sustainable tourism. Increasingly, more awareness and action is being taken to interact with our marine life as kindly and sustainably as possible. Just recently, the New Zealand Government has banned tourists swimming with dolphins in Bay of Islands after observing the negative impact that close human interference is having on these animals- just one example of how this outlook is growing globally. Whale Heritage sites are recognised as places where the community and tourists engage with the conservation of the ocean through a variety of formats be it art, music, science or events. Furthermore, these are areas where practices and livelihoods are actively improved to help sustain and uplift the health of cetacean interactions to support a peaceful and productive co-existence which is underpinned by policy, law and public cooperation.

Although Durban’s ocean culture is a big part of tourism, we have to find ways to help preserve and sustain these parts of our natural world in the face of increasing threat to our oceans globally. Whale Heritage Sites are setting a benchmark for responsible whale watching worldwide.

The ‘Godfather of water’ Wallace J Nichols purports that simply being near water is good for anxiety disorders, sleep, stress, grief and our attention span. He says its can also build resilience. This is not that groundbreaking considering how much of human life is supported by water. We spend the first 9 months of our lives suspended in water in utero, 70% of the earth’s surface is covered by water (97% of it being the ocean), 70% of the human body is made up of water- it’s not really a coincidence that we feel such a positive connection to water. Also, it is literally impossible to survive without water for humans, for plants and for animals.

In 2013 an extensive study was conducted on happiness in natural environments which revealed some interesting findings. The study, conducted with 20 000 smartphone participants, involved them being promoted at random intervals to rate their sense of wellbeing and their immediate environment. What emerged is that marine and coastal areas were found to be where people were the happiest. Furthermore, living within 1 kilometre of the coast is associated with improved mental health, the frequency of visits also plays a key role and it is found that people who visit the coast at least twice weekly for two hours a week is most beneficial for anyone. Even something as simple and beautiful as a sea views has far reaching positive effects on mental wellbeing.

Why is this so beneficial? Dr Mathew White (a senior lecturer at the University of Exeter and an environmental psychologist with BlueHealth, a programme researching the health and wellbeing benefits of blue space across 18 countries) says there are 3 ways by which the presence water is related to positive health benefits, happiness and general wellbeing. Firstly oceanic or aquatic environments have less polluted air and typically more sunshine, or at least voluntary exposure to it. Secondly, those who live near water tend to make use of this natural capital to keep active- strolls on the sea sand, surfing, swimming. Third, and probably the most controversial, is that water is psychologically restorative. White says time spent in and around water is more beneficial that those garnered from time spent in green environments, including a reduction in negative moods and stress.

Proximity
The Sibaya Coastal Precinct offers unique proximity to all you require, including quick and easy access to King Shaka International Airport and Umhlanga – which can all be reached in less than 10 minutes. With the Heleza Boulevard running as the main road throughout Sibaya, making travelling to nearby amenities effortless, residents also have quick routes to the major highways, namely the M4 and N2. In the near future, Sibaya will also be home to a range of facilities within a 5km radius including shopping centres, business hubs, restaurants and medical suites.

Value
Over the last 5 years, the Sibaya Coastal Precinct has seen 100% population increase with the residential developments introduced into the area. With rapid sale rates and growth in value of residential property, the precinct has seen between 30 – 40% capital appreciation over the last 5 years. The area is also a popular choice for investors and has proven to enjoy a positive rental yield. As a great holiday option, an apartment in the precinct offers the perfect rental or Airbnb solution.

Sustainability
Embedded in nature, the Sibaya Coastal Precinct comprises 350 hectares of protected forests, 6.5km of beach from estuary to estuary, with easy access to protected marine conservancy and one of the last remaining bio-systems of its kind along the KZN coastline. The Sibaya Precinct Master Management Association is at the helm of conservation and maintenance of the lush and diverse natural surroundings, resulting in a well preserved and sustainable environment unlike any other precinct in KZN.

The Sibaya Coastal Precinct is expected to reach greater heights encouraging further interest for a range of residents and investors. Pebble Beach provides an exclusive opportunity to own property and secure an address within this prestigious node.