Tidal Tales ~ Tidal, because our snorkelling and beach experience is always dictated by the tides.
Tales, because the ocean has a story and we are here to share it.

"At Tidal Tales, we are passionate about the ocean and our neighbourhood of Salt Rock, near Ballito, on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. This is possibly some of the best snorkelling experiences South Africa has to offer, year round warm water, incredible fish and marine life, all in shallow, safe, protected tidal pools and natural rocky reef areas."

The coastline, known as the Dolphin Coast (just north of Durban) between Ballito and Sheffield Beach, offers a surprising underwater wonderland. The coastline here is a wilderness, a wilderness that rivals any big game reserve or national park in it's size and diversity of animal species, we see whales on ancient migrations pass our way each winter, dolphins playing in the surf, we have recorded over 150 species of fish in water less than waist deep, over 100 species of Nudibranchs and some of the southern most shallow water corals in the world. It's a special place and worth protecting. We estimate that you see about 5% of what is actually in the water, stick your head under with a mask and snorkel and an entirely new world is suddenly opened up to you. And that is our mission, to just get people in the water, exposed to the amazing variety of life in our oceans in the hope that you will be as amazed and appreciative of this natural beauty as we are.  

We really hope you join us on a snorkelling trip and you can see first hand what we get so excited about. 

To find out more about how you can get involved in our conservation work Conservation Projects 

If you can swim, then we can teach you to snorkel. If you're wondering what to do in Things to do in Ballito And Salt Rock, then a snorkel with Tidal Tales is a must. Fun and safe for the entire family. We have 5 star ratings on Trip Advisor, safe, reliable and focus on small groups with personal attention. We hope you join us and see for yourself what we get so excited about.

About Our Snorkelling Trips & How We Work

This really is about as close as you will get to Scuba Diving without Scuba Diving (and at a fraction of the cost) - If you have even been contemplating Scuba Diving one day, then we highly recommend that you get a taste for underwater life with a mask and snorkel.

All trips are done at specific tides or in specific pools / reefs (we call them holes) where you are totally protected from the open ocean. You have NO chance of being washed away or drowning out at sea OK. So stop worrying....you'll just have a lot of fun and see amazing stuff. Snorkelling is perfect if you're looking for things for kids to do in Ballito, they just love it!

All trips are in small intimate groups. This ensures that you get personal attention, can ask questions, are well looked after and most importantly, ensures that we do not do any damage or harm to the marine environment. We have all the gear you may need for hire.

"You can expect to see a huge variety of fish life, octopus, sea hares, corals and critters you only thought existed in your wildest imagination. BUT this is a bit like visiting the game reserve, some days you can see Lions, Elephant and Leopards falling out the trees, other days you just see a lone Impala. We can however guarantee fish, lots of fish...if you don's see fish we will give you a FULL REFUND."

We will give you all the information you need on what to bring, where and when upon booking. Our schedule is based on weather and tide forecasts. should we cancel a trip for any reason and you cannot make the alternative date, we guarantee a FULL REFUND. 

Meet The Team

Jeanne and Emma are two Ballito locals with a deep passion for the ocean, marine life, and sharing the beauty of the Dolphin Coast with others. Having grown up around the sea, they have spent years exploring the local coastline and developing a strong appreciation for the unique marine ecosystems found right on Ballito’s doorstep.

As the owners of Tidal Tales, their vision is to create fun, safe, educational, and memorable ocean experiences for both locals and visitors alike. Their passion lies not only in adventure and snorkelling, but also in marine conservation, ocean awareness, and helping people connect with the natural world in a meaningful way.

Known for their friendly energy, patience in the water, and love for meeting new people, Jeanne and Emma are excited to continue growing Tidal Tales into a community-driven ocean adventure company that inspires people to explore, appreciate, and protect the sea.