DURBAN & THE COAST
Durban & The Coast, in KwaZulu-Natal, is South Africa’s playground, famed for its year-round subtropical climate, warm Indian Ocean, and blend of Zulu, Indian, and colonial heritage. It offers a vibrant mix of city life and idyllic beachfront.
This area is a captivating cultural melting pot, offering everything from world-class surfing and bustling markets to peaceful nature reserves and significant historical sites.
Most Popular Attractions
Durban City Core & Beachfront:
Golden Mile: Durban’s iconic stretch of beachfront promenade, perfect for walking, running, and cycling, featuring hotels, water parks, and piers.
uShaka Marine World: A world-class marine theme park featuring an aquarium, water park (Wet ‘n Wild), and a village of shops and restaurants.
Moses Mabhida Stadium: A striking modern stadium offering the SkyCar ride to the arch’s top for panoramic city views and the adrenaline-pumping Big Swing.
Durban Botanic Gardens: Africa’s oldest surviving botanical gardens, known for its extensive collection of cycads and orchids.
Victoria Street Market: A bustling, traditional market famed for its vibrant spice stalls, curries, and Indian and African crafts.
City Hall: An impressive example of Edwardian neo-Baroque architecture housing the Durban Museum.
Port Natal Maritime Museum: Located on the harbor, showcasing the maritime history of Durban and South Africa.
Juma Musjid Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the Southern Hemisphere, a key landmark in the inner city.
Coastal & Nature Attractions:
Valley of a Thousand Hills: A spectacular natural landscape offering cultural villages, viewpoints, and scenic drives outside Durban.
Phezulu Safari Park: Situated in the Valley of a Thousand Hills, offering traditional Zulu cultural shows and crocodile and snake park tours.
Umhlanga Lighthouse & Promenade: An iconic red and white lighthouse next to a popular promenade, offering views and access to the main beach.
Gateway Theatre of Shopping (Umhlanga): One of the largest shopping malls in Africa, featuring an indoor surf centre, rock climbing, and a cinema.
Isimangaliso Wetland Park (Northern Coast): A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity, including wetlands, coastal forests, and marine life (mentioning its proximity to the coast).
Durban Beaches (e.g., North Beach, Addington Beach): Popular surfing and swimming spots protected by shark nets and lifeguards.
Kloof Gorge (Kranskloof Nature Reserve): Offers beautiful hiking trails and magnificent views into the gorge carved by the Molweni River.
Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park: A popular spot for mountain biking, trail running, and an excellent coffee shop.
Historical & Cultural Sites:
Inanda Heritage Route: A route connecting sites significant to South Africa’s history, including the Ohlange Institute, where Nelson Mandela cast his first vote.
KwaMuhle Museum: Focused on the history of Durban during apartheid, documenting the lives and struggles of Black residents.
Old Court House Museum: One of the oldest buildings in Durban, now a museum dedicated to the colonial history of the area.
Phoenix Settlement: Established by Mahatma Gandhi in 1904, a key site in the history of Passive Resistance.
Durban Art Gallery: Houses a collection of South African and international art, located within the City Hall complex.
The Workshop (Shopping Centre): Housed in a historic former railway workshop, blending retail with unique architecture.
Activities & Experiences
Surf the Golden Mile: Take a surf lesson or rent a board on the famous Golden Mile beaches in Durban, known for their warm waters and excellent waves for all skill levels.
Explore uShaka Marine World: Spend a day at this world-class marine theme park, which features a vast aquarium, water slides (Wet ‘n Wild), and a village walk with shops and restaurants.
Go on a Rickshaw Ride: Experience a classic Durban tradition with a colorful, decorated rickshaw ride along the beachfront promenade.
Visit the Valley of 1000 Hills: Take a scenic drive through this stunning region, stopping at viewpoints, cultural villages (like Phezulu), and local craft markets.
Hike in the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve: Explore the dramatic gorges and waterfalls of this reserve just outside Durban, offering rewarding trails and excellent birdwatching.
Discover the Midlands Meander: Take a day trip into the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, following the meander route to visit craft studios, breweries, cheese makers, and charming country hotels.
Wander through the Durban Botanic Gardens: Visit Africa’s oldest surviving botanical garden, a tranquil green space perfect for a relaxed stroll among exotic and indigenous plant collections.
Taste Authentic Bunny Chow: Try Durban’s iconic street food, a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with delicious curry, at a local spot in the city or along the coast.
Dive or Snorkel Aliwal Shoal: For certified divers, take a boat trip to this world-renowned marine protected area for potential encounters with ragged-tooth sharks, rays, and diverse reef fish.
Visit a Zulu Cultural Village: Immerse yourself in the rich Zulu heritage with a visit to a village that offers traditional dancing, demonstrations of customs, and authentic meals.
Take a Scenic Drive to the South or North Coast: Explore the coastline beyond Durban. Head south to Scottburgh and Margate, or north to Ballito and the Dolphin Coast, known for their quieter beaches and excellent resorts.
Attend a Cricket or Rugby Match: Experience the electrifying atmosphere of a local game at Kingsmead Cricket Ground or Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium (home of the Sharks rugby team).
Local Tips & Transport
E-Hailing/Taxis are Best for City Movement: For safety and convenience, especially at night, use e-hailing services (like Uber or Bolt) or reputable metered taxi companies. They are readily available in central Durban and key tourist areas.
Car Rental for Exploring the Coast: A rental car is essential for exploring the wider KwaZulu-Natal region, including the Midlands Meander, the Valley of 1000 Hills, and the beaches of the North and South Coasts.
The M4 for Coastal Access: The M4 motorway runs parallel to the coastline and is the main route for accessing many of the coastal towns north and south of Durban.
People’s Park & Promenade Biking: Bikes are a great way to explore the Golden Mile. You can rent bikes or use the local e-scooter service to cover the long stretch of the promenade.
Minibus Taxis: Minibus taxis are the primary form of public transport for locals. While extremely affordable, they can be confusing for tourists to navigate and are generally not recommended for first-time visitors unless with a local guide.
From King Shaka International Airport (DUR): The airport is about 35 km north of the city. The most convenient ways to get to the city center or coastal resorts are pre-booked shuttle services, e-hailing, or rental car.
The Curry Capital of South Africa: Durban has the largest Indian population outside of India, making its cuisine world-famous. Don’t be afraid to try Bunny Chow (a half-loaf of bread filled with curry), Roti, or a proper home-style Durban Mutton Curry.
Warm Water Year-Round: The Indian Ocean coastline is known for its warm currents, making swimming enjoyable even in the winter months (May-August). Look out for the shark nets and flags which indicate safe swimming areas.
Zulu Culture: KwaZulu-Natal is the heartland of the Zulu nation. When visiting cultural sites, observe local customs and dress respectfully. The greeting is “Sawubona” (I see you).
The Beachfront Promenade: This long, pedestrianized strip is the city’s hub. It is generally safe and well-patrolled, making it ideal for walking, running, and biking, especially during the day.
Language Mix: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, the area has a rich linguistic mix, including isiZulu and Afrikaans. Learning a few isiZulu phrases is a wonderful way to connect with locals.
Hidden Gems:
- The Spice Markets: Head to the informal markets around Dr. Yusuf Dadoo Street (formerly Grey Street) for an intense sensory experience and to buy authentic spices and traditional remedies.
- Maboneng Precinct: This revitalized urban space in the inner city offers art galleries, design studios, and trendy eateries, showcasing modern Durban creativity.
- The BAT Centre: A community arts and culture hub on the Durban harbor, featuring live music, a bar, and small craft shops.
- Minitown: A charming, quirky display of miniature replicas of Durban’s famous buildings, located on the Golden Mile.
Top Restaurants
Britannia Hotel – Capsicum Restaurant [$10-$20] – Locally known as “Britannia,” this historic institution is a long-standing favorite for its traditional, authentic Durban Indian curries, especially the famous “Mutton Bunny.”
Max’s Lifestyle [$15-$25] – A unique, upmarket, and trendy shisa nyama (traditional barbecue) spot in Umlazi township, offering various cuts of meat prepared on a braai (BBQ) with traditional side dishes like samp and beans.
Cane Cutters [$10-$20] – Highly popular with locals in the Glenwood area, this restaurant is renowned for serving an excellent, authentic Durban-style bunny chow, often with a line out the door.
Mali’s Indian Restaurant [$15-$30] – Tucked away in Morningside, this is a more casual affair than a high-end curry spot, offering consistency and a wide variety of flavorful North and South Indian dishes, popular with local chefs.
Afro’s Chicken [$5-$15] – Started as a food truck and now has several permanent locations, including a container on the Golden Mile beachfront, offering simple, delicious chicken strips in lemon & herb or chili.
The Pot and Kettle [$10-$20] – A Botha’s Hill institution famous for its home-style cooking and unpretentious, comfortable atmosphere, a favorite for a hearty South African meal outside the city center.
Roma Revolving Restaurant [$20-$40] – While well-known, it’s a nostalgic favorite for locals, offering authentic Italian cuisine and South African meats with a slowly revolving 360-degree panoramic view from the 32nd floor of the John Ross building.
The Glenwood Bakery [$10-$20] – A true local gem known for its freshly baked artisanal breads, amazing breakfast/brunch dishes, and wood-fired pizzas, all served in a casual, community-focused setting.
The Surf Riders Food Shack [$10-$25] – A laid-back, beachfront spot on the Golden Mile that serves a solid menu of all-day breakfasts, burgers, and freshly pressed juices, popular for its vibrant atmosphere and ocean views.
Parc [$10-$20] – A favorite cafe in Glenwood known for its hearty all-day breakfasts, delicious coffee, vegan superfood bowls, and decadent cakes and milkshakes.
California Dreaming [$15-$25] – Located on the beachfront, this spot is known for its beautiful ocean views, warm reception, and a menu featuring contemporary South African and seafood options.
The Greek Flame [$15-$25] – A long-standing, family-run restaurant in Durban North popular for its authentic Greek cuisine, specializing in traditional grilled meats, souvlaki, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Al Sameer’s [$5-$15] – A small, local-secret eatery and takeaway in the Mount Edgecombe Plaza, highly recommended by locals for what many consider the best Chicken Tikka in Durban.
Lupa Osteria [$15-$30] – With locations across Durban (like Durban North and Umhlanga), this spot offers authentic Italian food in a trattoria style, known for its excellent antipasto and consistent quality.
Olive and Oil [$15-$30] – A charming Mediterranean restaurant in the Glenwood area (and other locations) that consistently receives high praise for blending comfort with culinary quality, focusing on grills and seafood.
The Waffle House [$10-$20] – A legendary spot on the South Coast (Ramsgate) that is always worth the drive, known for its sweet and savory Belgian waffles, set in a beautiful, tranquil garden next to a river.
Moyo uShaka [$20-$35] – Though in a main attraction, this restaurant offers an African soulful experience with traditional cuisine, face painting, and live entertainment in a beautiful setting.
Stoker’s Arms [$15-$25] – Situated in the lush suburb of Kloof, this spot is a classic pub and bistro housed in a charming, old-world setting, known for its good pub grub and relaxed atmosphere.
St James on Venice Restaurant [$20-$35] – Offers liberal lashings of elegance in the heart of Morningside, providing a sophisticated yet comfortable casual dining experience for locals.
1904 Bistro Américain [$15-$30] – Located in Kloof, this spot offers a modern American diner experience with classic family comfort food, famous for its hamburgers and excellent value in a sleek, Art Deco dining room.
9th Avenue Waterside [$30-$50] – An upscale bistro run by a husband-and-wife team, known for its modern Mediterranean-influenced menu with a strong focus on locally sourced seafood and a waterside setting.
Dukkah Restaurant & Bar [$25-$45] – A true flavor testament to Durban’s unique blend of cultures, cuisine, and music vibes, offering creative fusion dishes in a lively, trendy setting.
Unity Brasserie & Bar [$25-$45] – Offers a diverse menu, a stylish setting, and creative cocktails, intersecting modern elegance with culinary mastery, a popular choice for a refined yet approachable meal.
The Greedy Buddha [$20-$40] – Located in Umhlanga, this restaurant offers fresh Asian-Fusion dishes, from Potsticker Dim Sum to glazed duck, and is highly rated for its flavorful and affordable 5-star meals.
Green Food Studio [$15-$30] – An enticing new contemporary restaurant on the Ballito scene (North Coast) that focuses on unique, modern dishes, inviting diners to sample new sights, sounds, and tastes.
The Chairman [$30-$50] – Known for its craft cocktails and funky vibes, this restaurant offers a fusion of Afro-Asian flavors and is not just about the food but a celebration of culinary influences in a trendy atmosphere.
Cafe Monroe [$20-$35] – An outstanding restaurant in Musgrave/Berea known for its beautiful decor, ambience, and dishes crafted from fresh ingredients by Chef Margo, consistently receiving high diner reviews.
The LivingRoom at Summerhill Estate [$25-$45] – A unique hidden gem tucked away in Pinetown, showcasing Durban’s culinary diversity with a commitment to sustainability and community development.
Sunsets & Mermaids [$20-$40] – A trendy spot in Umhlanga Rocks offering a mix of Italian, Seafood, Sushi, and Tapas, perfect for a modern, social dining experience by the coast.
Little Havana [$35-$60] – A Cuban-inspired restaurant in Umhlanga, offering a sophisticated twist on the steakhouse experience with high-quality steaks, seafood, and a lively atmosphere.
Canvas Grill [$20-$40] – A popular grill spot known for its passionately prepared food, ranging from premium meat cuts to ocean-fresh seafood and flavorful pastas.
The Sunset Club [$30-$55] – Located in the Sibaya Precinct on the North Coast, this venue offers a contemporary, fusion, and Mediterranean menu, enjoyed with stunning views.
Pink Duck [$15-$30] – Located at the bottom of Florida Road, this restaurant is highly recommended for its South East Asian fusion food, available for both dine-in and takeout.
Jack Salmon Fish House [$25-$45] – With multiple locations, this spot is known for extraordinary seafood at unbeatable prices, with a menu purely inspired by the bounty of the ocean.
The Chefs’ Table [$50-$80] – A fine-dining gem in Umhlanga with a focus on modern European cuisine, offering a curated tasting menu that is possibly the toughest table to snag, renowned for its artistry of food.
The Grill Room at The Oyster Box Hotel [$60-$100] – Located in Umhlanga, this legendary institution has been renowned for almost 70 years for its classic, old-world fine-dining food and impeccable service overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Signature Umhlanga [$60-$90] – Invites guests to enjoy a luxurious experience of refined fine dining with meticulous attention to detail in service and exquisite décor.
Little Havana [$40-$70] – Provides a sophisticated and high-quality steakhouse experience in Umhlanga, known for its premium, free-range, hormone-free meats processed and aged in-house.
Cargo Hold Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in a replica of a 1920s cargo ship at uShaka Marine World, this unique spot allows diners to eat next to a shark tank, offering a diverse, seafood-focused menu.
Bel Punto [$40-$70] – A distinguished, family-owned Italian fine-dining restaurant in Umdloti, celebrated for its authentic Italian cooking principles, excellent seafood, steaks, and poultry.
Ille Maurice [$40-$70] – Combines a taste of the neighbouring island with local, sustainable East Coast seafood, offering grand French and Mauritian Creole flavors like barracuda vindaye.
9th Avenue Waterside [$40-$70] – Often moving into the fine dining category, this establishment is renowned for its seasonal, inventive menu and intimate setting in Morningside, showcasing the chef’s commitment to quality.
The Royal Court Grill [$50-$80] – Situated within the five-star Royal Sibaya Hotel, offering a mesmerizing fine-dining experience with a sophisticated menu and elegant atmosphere.
Fiamma Grill [$30-$50] – Located in Ballito’s Coco-de-Mer Boutique Hotel on the North Coast, treating patrons to the best of grills, continental, and Mediterranean fine dining.
Butcher Boys Grill [$25-$45] – A consistently popular steakhouse with locations in Morningside and Umhlanga, specializing in the finest, high-quality, aged South African grain-fed beef.
Havana Grill [$30-$50] – An original outlet in the Suncoast Casino complex, known for serving high-quality, aged South African grain-fed beef grilled to perfection, along with delicious sauces.
Daruma [$40-$70] – A world-class Japanese restaurant on the Durban beachfront (and Umhlanga), highly recommended for its teppanyaki and sushi, offering a memorable, authentic experience.
Texas American [$15-$30] – A popular spot in Glen Ashley (Durban North) that specializes in authentic American cuisine, perfect for those craving quality ribs, burgers, and other American classics.
Cafe Jiran [$15-$30] – A versatile eatery on the beachfront, serving as a top-notch coffee shop by day and a gastro-restaurant by night, known for its great breakfast and relaxed vibe.
Sofra Istanbul [$15-$30] – Located on Florida Road, this restaurant is highly praised by locals for its excellent service and delicious, authentic Turkish food, from kebabs to mezes.
The Hussar Grill [$30-$50] – A popular national steakhouse chain with a branch in Umhlanga, known for its old-school romance, consistent quality, and excellent wine list, specializing in wet-aged and dry-aged steaks.
Two Vikings [$10-$20] – A casual spot in Amanzimtoti (Toti), famous for its great fish and chips, offering simple, fresh seafood and a quick-bite option.
House of Curries [$10-$20] – An ever-popular and energetic spot on Florida Road, famous for its bunny chows, with the lamb curry and broad bean curry bunnies being the winning picks.
Wodka [$15-$35] – A highly-rated restaurant in Umhlanga Rocks that offers a modern, European-inspired menu with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a stylish, intimate atmosphere.
Tasca Pizza [$15-$25] – Formerly a take-out shop now a fully fledged eatery, serving top-notch thin-based pizzas and various pasta dishes to a loyal local following.
Sunkist Restaurant [$20-$40] – Offers a fusion of Mozambican flavors, focusing on the freshest, highest-quality food, with sharing platters recommended for a great dining experience.
Noosh [$10-$20] – Located in Westwood Mall, this spot specializes in shawarma, with locals claiming they have the best in South Africa, perfect for a quick, quality bite.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Koko Bar: This trendy cocktail lounge, located in the heart of Durban Central, is known for its sophisticated atmosphere and creative, premium drink selection, offering an elegant setting for a relaxing evening.
The Chairman: A stylish and upmarket jazz bar situated in downtown Durban. This venue offers a unique and quirky experience, perfect for enjoying a classic cocktail with smooth live music.
The Lighthouse Bar (The Oyster Box): Located at the iconic Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga Rocks, this bar offers an unbeatable view overlooking the Indian Ocean and the historic lighthouse, with a selection of great cocktails and an air of old-world luxury.
Black Lounge – Bistro & Cocktail Lounge: Found in Umhlanga, this sophisticated venue is celebrated for its mixology, fine dining, and beautiful ambiance, making it a favorite for both casual drinks and date nights.
The Panorama Bar: Perched at the Elangeni Hotel on Durban’s North Beach, this chic spot offers stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and an extensive cocktail menu featuring classics and innovative long drinks.
Zack’s: Located at the vibrant Wilson’s Wharf complex in Durban Central, this independent café bar provides fantastic views of the harbor, serving a full cocktail menu alongside pub fare, and often featuring a lively evening program with live music.
Lucky Shaker: Leading the way in Durban’s cocktail culture, this spot in Umhlanga is a must-go for those looking for top-notch mixes from experienced mixologists in a seriously trendy atmosphere.
Tiger’s Milk Umhlanga: Situated along the coast in Umhlanga Rocks, this venue offers a captivating blend of delectable cuisine and stylish ambiance, with great sea views and a menu of cold brews and signature cocktails.
Rockets uMhlanga: Spanning three floors along the Indian Ocean in uMhlanga, this venue boasts a sophisticated beach club atmosphere, a rooftop bar, and a selection of world-beating, crafted cocktails.
Sunsets & Mermaids: A vibrant and whimsical beach bar and eatery located on Chartwell Drive in Umhlanga, where the nautical decor sets the scene for enjoying cocktails and tapas near the strip.
The Dutch: Found in Umhlanga, this spot has an old-school vintage vibe, offering a top selection of cocktails, wine, and craft beer, often hosting live music and comedy evenings.
Unity Bar & Brasserie: Located in Musgrave, Durban, this bar channels casual hipster chic. While a haven for craft beer lovers, it also features a classic cocktail menu in a sophisticated setting.
Moyo uShaka Pier Bar: Situated on the end of the uShaka Pier in Durban, this unique location offers the chance to watch the sunset over the Durban skyline from a unique vantage point while sipping their specialty cocktails.
Sandbar: Located along the beachfront, this spot combines beachfront charm with chic decor, offering an ultimate beach-inspired drinking experience perfect for unwinding with a cocktail after a day by the shore.
Harry James Umhlanga: Located on Ridge Road in Umhlanga, this cocktail bar is known for its good live music, amazing service, and a fun, vibrant atmosphere with a selection of drinks and great food.
ORIGIN: One of Durban’s most popular and iconic nightclubs, located on Clark Road, boasting three dance floors (each with different music genres) and four bar areas spread over three levels, including a balcony and rooftop terrace.
Tiger Tiger: This iconic nightclub, with its recognizable red signage in Morningside, Durban, is a classic party spot known for hosting well-known DJs, diverse music (Hip-Hop, EDM, Amapiano), and infamous themed nights.
Joe Cools: A renowned, lively beachfront bar and nightclub situated right on Durban’s Golden Mile (Marine Parade). It offers seven fully stocked bars across its decks, transforming into an energetic party hub as the sun sets.
Cubaña Durban: A vibrant Latino-themed bar and club on Florida Road, Morningside. It captures the essence of Cuban culture with a lively atmosphere, infectious music, and a diverse selection of cocktails and cigars.
Kingston Beach Club: Located in the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Rugby Stadium on Jacko Jackson Drive in Durban, this spot is a quintessential choice for a big night out, known for its electric atmosphere and delicious cocktails, especially after a game.
Club 386: Just above the uMhlanga Pier in uMhlanga Rocks, this venue is a legendary spot for dancing the night away, popular for its local resident DJs and a dedicated VIP section upstairs.
Rockets Beach Club (uMhlanga): The beach club section of Rockets in uMhlanga Rocks offers an elevated social scene right on the shoreline, with carefully curated beats, a high-energy atmosphere, and both local and international acts.
47th Nightclub: A popular dance club in Durban known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse music selection, attracting a wide range of party-goers looking for an exciting night out.
Dance Cafe Nightclub: An energetic dance venue in Durban known for its lively atmosphere and top DJ performances, attracting a young and vibrant crowd.
Fahrenheit Executive Lounge & Nightclub: Located on Mathews Meyiwa Road in Durban, this club offers an executive, exclusive feel with a well-lit dance floor and top DJs playing the latest beats.
Azar: This intimate, neon-lit social experience in Morningside often features Durban’s finest up-and-comers, known for a chilled Amapiano environment that can easily turn into a powerful turnup depending on the event.