Durban averages about 320 days of sunshine out of every 365 and is the destination of choice for families that want year-round beach holidays.
But, Durban is about more than just balmy weather, gorgeous beaches, and days spent in the waves…if you can believe you’d need much more than that.
Durban’s Top Attractions
Just a few of the must-see attractions in Durban include:
- uShaka Marine World (a “water world” of epic proportions)
- Durban Botanic Gardens
- Indian Quarter (spices, colours, sounds and delectable Indian food await visitors)
- Moses Mabhida Stadium (a hit for adrenalin-junkies and sports enthusiasts)
- The Golden Mile (beaches, restaurants and cocktail bars abound)
Places to Stay in Durban
So, with everything there is to see and do in Durban, you’re going to need to spend a few nights here to get the most out of it. Here are some of our favourite places to stay in and around the bustling, vibrant epicentre of KwaZulu-Natal:
Anchor’s Rest Guest House
Umhlanga Rocks is a stunning little beach retreat that is close to the city centre of Durban. And, it’s home to Anchor’s Rest, which offers upmarket self-catering or B & B suites. Each has its own private patio and braai facilities, air-con and ceiling fans, en-suite bathroom, and coffee station. Relax next to the swimming pool or enjoy your dinner in the garden on warm Durban evenings.
Caza Beach Guest House
For lashings of luxury in La Lucia, Caza Beach Guest House promises a real spoil. This is just metres from the beach, with most rooms overlooking the swimming pool and indigenous gardens. There is free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and all of the rooms have a modern, elegant look and feel. The guest house is near to Umhlanga, its beaches, and the Gateway Theatre of Shopping.
Cowrie Cove Guest House
This 5-star guest house is idyllically situated in La Lucia, where the beaches are endless and the coastline green and lush. After a long walk on the tranquil beach, head back to your suite; which has Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a bar fridge, air-con and extra-length beds. Some suites also have indulgent spa baths for the ultimate TLC. There are barbecue facilities and a beautiful swimming pool, complete with sun loungers.
St Annes Guest House
This elegant B&B in Berea is steeped in history and has a timeless charm about it. Still, it’s close to the CBD of Durban, its beaches, and the King Shaka International Airport. The rooms have air-con, DSTV, and a coffee station. The swimming pool is inviting, idyllically set in the pretty garden. There is also a pub and pool table in the cellar.
Ocean Vista Boutique Guest House
This modern boutique accommodation combines breath-taking sea views of the Umhlanga coast and excellent amenities. These views are best enjoyed from the roof-top deck (preferably with a hot cuppa or an ice-cold cocktail). Fast fibre Wi-Fi, HD flatscreen TVs, and air-conditioning ensure that these suites are the ultimate in comfort and opulence. La Lucia and the guest house are only 20 minutes from the centre of Durbs.
Royal Palm Hotel
This 4-star hotel in Umhlanga Ridge is ideal for families. It is close to the Gateway Theatre of Shopping and is perched right on Palm Boulevard, where spectacular fountains and gardens are on display. There are 94 suites at the hotel; each of which has air-conditioning, a coffee / tea station, mini bar, satellite TV, and room service. After a day spent exploring Durban or soaking up the sun on its beaches, this is the perfect base to relax and unwind.
Fairlight Beach House
This beach house in the exclusive Umdloti is a luxurious home-away-from-home. Unbeatable ocean views from every suite, tasteful décor, and its positioning on the best beach in the area all set it apart. The rooms are air-conditioned and have TVs and free Wi-Fi. Go to sleep to the sound of the waves and wake up with the crisp scent of the ocean spray. Fairlight is only 30 minutes from Durban’s CBD.
The View Boutique Hotel & Spa
Aptly named for its extraordinary views of the Indian Ocean, the verdant vegetation, and the town of Amanzimtoti; this hotel is ideal for anyone that needs a complete retreat from city living. The rooms have en-suite bathrooms, air-con, satellite TV and a coffee or tea station. The hotel is a walk away from the beaches (where Aliwal Shoal awaits keen divers) and 20 minutes’ drive from uShaka Marine World.
Isikulu 44
Isikulu 44 is on the scenic Umhlanga Coast, perfect for families or groups of up to six, thanks to its three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It’s just across the road from the irresistible Umdloti Beach, and close to many great restaurants. Drink in the uninterrupted sea views from the balcony, cool off in the swimming pool, or sip sundowners around the braai to get the most out of the exquisite province of KwaZulu-Natal.
Seaview Manor
With only four suites (for up to eight guests in total), this 4-star B & B is an exclusive getaway, nestled in the pretty area of La Lucia. One of the highlights of this exquisite accommodation is that guests can enjoy sweeping ocean views from their bed or patio. Each suite also overlooks the inviting pool and the lush valley that drops below. The rooms have air-con, tea- and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi, a flatscreen TV, and plenty more.
Essenwood House
With a charming style of beach-house-chic-meets-timeless-classics, Essenwood House in Berea is fabulous for a relaxing stay in Durbs. The swimming pool in the well-kept garden is a must for balmy KZN days and the rooms are air-conditioned for maximum comfort. Enjoy the views of the bustling city and the serene ocean while sipping on some famous South African wine or a cup of coffee.
Ben Siesta 202
Ben Siesta 202 is a self-catering apartment in Umhlanga that is modern, spacious, and close to both the beach and the town. The outdoor patio and braai area are fantastic for sundowners and long days spent enjoying your vacation at leisure. The complex has a swimming pool and secure parking, and the unit boasts DSTV and uncapped Wi-Fi. Umhlanga is just north of Durban and its international airport.
The Riverside Hotel
This 4-star family hotel is conveniently located just outside Durban and offers fun, excellent service, comfy suites, and plenty to see and do nearby. It is perched on the banks of the mouth of the scenic Umgeni River and its estuary, where birdlife is prolific and the gentle movement of the water sets the pace for your days. Each room has air-con, an en-suite bathroom, satellite TV, and a kitchenette. There are a number of restaurants on site too.
314 Breakers Resort
This self-catering apartment in Umhlanga Rocks is ideal for two adults and one child. Its open-plan design means that it is airy and bright. The kitchen is well-equipped too. The complex has a swimming pool, gym, trampoline, tennis court, jungle gym, and pool bar. There is also a coffee shop and a restaurant here. 314 is a few minutes’ drive from the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, the Wave House, and a number of golf courses.
Book with SA-Venues.com
SA-Venues.com has thousands of accommodation venues listed; including all of these Durban hotspots. Scattered around South Africa, these guest houses, B & B’s, lodges, hotels, apartments, and glamping sites offer visitors the full range of overnight lodgings. Book your accommodation.
