It’s no surprise that when people think of Durban, they picture sun-drenched beaches, beautiful sunsets and ice creams on the pier. And while all of that is totally true, there are also plenty of hidden gems hidden in and around the city that are just waiting to become your new favourite hang outs.
From non-stop family fun and outdoor adventure to must-try eateries and scenic experiences, there’s even more to Durban than meets the eye. So, on your next day off, choose some of these great hotspots and all-time favourites for an adventure in your own home town. Better yet, stay over at our conveniently located Protea Hotels in and around the city so you’re always close to the action.
SCENIC SPOTS TO EXERCISE
Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve
Take the family on a fun hike in the gorgeous Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve where you’ll find lush coastal forest, chittering wildlife and the sparkling Umhlanga Lagoon. The guided walk is just 30 minutes’ long – the perfect length for little ones.
The Bike and Bean Durban
This unique seaside adventure hub combines great coffee, amazing views and fun bike rides into one great day out. Located on Country Club Beach, Bike & Bean Durban offers bike hire, plus a bunch of fun beach-based activities to keep the whole family active and entertained.
Durban Promenade
The Durban Promenade is by far one of the most popular spots for outdoor action. Enjoy everything from leisurely strolls and lively jogs along the beachfront to scenic bike rides and skateboarding. The Promenade stretches along a paved walkway between Blue Lagoon in the north and Addington in the south.
HAVE A CULINARY MOMENT
Breezy Breakfasts
Glenwood Bakery
These guys know their bread. Hand formed and baked to perfection in a hearth oven, each loaf comes out golden brown and utterly delicious. Don’t miss their signature Eggs Benedict served on dark sourdough. It’s sure to become your new favourite breakfast dish.
Where: Glenwood
When: Tues to Friday (6am – 3:30pm), Saturday (6am – 1pm)
Circus Circus Beach Café
Local, seasonal and fresh, this café is by far one of the most popular beachfront restaurants in Durban. Located in the Bay of Plenty, it’s the perfect spot to feel the sand between your toes while sipping on some of the best cappuccinos in town.
Where: Snell Parade, Bay of Plenty
When: Monday to Friday (6am – 5pm), Saturday to Sunday (6am – 5:30pm)
Sumptuous Lunches
Butcher Block
Boasting unbeatable views of the ocean, this bright and breezy grill house is a great place to get your fill of delicious prawn cocktails, escargot and perfectly tender steaks. For added indulgence, treat yourself to a taste sensation from the milkshake menu.
Where: Umhlanga Rocks
When: Lunch Monday to Sunday (12 noon – 3pm)
Republik
Gourmet free-range burgers with a casual dining vibe set the scene for this stylish lunch joint. Try the inventive spicy nacho burger or the grilled garlic portobello burger, followed by a crispy cold craft beer.
Where: Broadway, Durban North
When: Lunch Tuesday to Saturday (12 noon – 3pm), Saturday to Sunday (12 noon – 4pm)
Duke & Duchess
This cool café offers some serious street cred by sharing space with a motorbike shop. Enjoy light lunches, great service and fabulous coffee in one delicious lunch spot.
Where: 59 Meridian Drive, Umhlanga Rocks
When: Monday to Friday (7am – 4pm), Saturday to Sunday (8am – 2:30pm)>
Delectable Dinners
9th Avenue Bistro
Classic and elegant, this gourmet bistro is loved for its mouth-watering menu featuring a distinctive French twist. Savour innovative delights such as grilled pork rib-eye with truffled mac and cheese, and roast lamb with edamame beans to name a few. All perfectly coupled with an impressive wine list.
Where: Ninth Avenue, Morningside
When: Dinner Monday to Saturday (6pm – 9:30pm)
Capsicum Restaurant
Looking for an authentic curry experience? It doesn’t get better than Capsicum’s legendary biryanis, bunny chows and slow-cooked curries. Generous portions, a relaxed ambience and amazing flavours guaranteed.
Where: Umgeni Road, Durban Central
When: Dinner Monday to Sunday (10:30am – 9:30pm)
Something sweet
Two Acres Tearoom
Set in a serene country-style garden, this enchanting tearoom is praised for its indescribably delicious New York Cheesecake. For an added treat, spoil yourself with a mani pedi while sipping a frothy cappuccino.
Where: 1 Country Lane, Hillcrest
When: Monday to Saturday (8am – 4pm)
Chateau Gateaux Patisserie
Got a sweet tooth? You’re not going to want to miss this! A decadent dessert wonderland featuring a signature selection of tempting confectionary, irresistible pastries and sweet treats simply to die for.
Where: 66 Adelaide Tambo (Kensington) Drive, Durban North
When: Monday to Saturday (8am – 4pm)
DO SOMETHING ADVENTUROUS
The SkyCar and Big Rush Big Swing
Take your Durban experience to a whole new level with an exhilarating ride up the SkyCar featuring 360⁰ views over the city. Step out onto the platform at the top and see if you can spot your neighbourhood in the distance. For a real kick, glide through a 220m arc over the stadium on the thrilling Big Swing.
Where: Moses Mabhida Stadium
When: Monday to Sunday (9am – 5pm)
Learn 2 Surf Durban
Expert coaches, warm tropical water and small waves make this Durban surf school the perfect place to brush up on your skills in a safe environment. Want to chill while the kids hit the waves? Relax on the beach loungers and watch a high-energy game of volley ball or beach soccer.
Where: Addington Beach (north of uShaka Marine World)
When: Booking required
SOMETHING FOR THE KIDS
People’s Park
Treat your kids to an awesome day out at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Let them loose on the rolling green lawns and kilometre-long track, while you kick back with a coffee and free WiFi at the café.
Where: Moses Mabhida Stadium
When: Monday to Sunday (5am – 7pm)
Funworld Amusement Park
Located on the beachfront, this action-packed wonderland is filled to the brim with super fun activities for the whole family. Whizz round on the tilt-a-whirl, take a scenic trip on the cable car and go for a spin on the carousel, then cool off in the paddle pools. It’s every kid’s dream day out!
Where: Durban Beachfront
When: Times vary according to season
uShaka Marine World
From fascinating sea creature encounters, wet and wild rides, thrilling adventure parks and much more, no one does ocean adventure quite like Ushaka Marine World. Take a break from all the action with a tasty lunch at a range of restaurants, followed by some outdoor retail therapy.
Where: King Shaka Avenue, Point
When: Times vary according to season
Umgeni Steam Railway
Hop on a scenic railway trip through the Valley of 1000 Hills. Chugging along on a vintage steam train from Kloof to Inchanga Station and back, this half-day ride is a uniquely exciting way to experience the countryside.
Where: Stokers Arms, Kloof Station
When: Trains depart at 08:30 and 12:30
GroovyBalls Adventure Park
This gives having a ball a whole new meaning! Climb into a giant, see-through sphere and roll your way through exciting twisty, turny downhill tracks. The park also offers go karting, target shooting and paintball.
Where: Off Capital Hill Drive, Cliffdale
When: Tuesday to Sunday (8:30am – 6pm)
Minitown
Feel like a giant as you wander through knee-high versions of some of the city’s best-known landmarks. Watch tiny trains and airplanes go by, then check out the miniature harbour for some seaside exploration.
Where: 114 Snell Parade, Beachfront
When: Monday to Friday and Sunday (9:30am –8:30pm), Saturday (9:30am – 5:30pm)
YOUR NEXT INSTAGRAM PIC IS HERE
Margate Beach
South Coast
Margate is a firm holiday favourite with locals on the South Coast. This happy holiday town is a great place to chill out on the golden sand, snack at some great al fresco restaurants and sip cocktails as the sun sets.
Ramsgate
South Coast
Located in the laid-back holiday village of Ramsgate, this Blue Flag Beach has the added bonus of being next to a gorgeous warm lagoon. Pack a picnic, bring your camera and get ready for some stunning holiday snaps.
Umhlanga Rocks
North Coast
A chilled holiday vibe, sun-drenched sand and year-round sunny skies make Umhlanga Rocks a beach lover’s paradise. Swim, surf and suntan on the beach. Shop and dine at a range of upmarket eateries. And go all out at the famous Gateway Theatre of Shopping. It’s pure beach bliss.
EXPLORE YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD
KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board Maritime Centre of Excellence
Discover the mysteries of the ocean’s greatest predator with fascinating shark tours and talks. Take a boat trip out to sea and watch how staff put all the safety nets and checks in place to make the ocean safe for swimmers. Be sure to keep an eye out for some marine animal sightings along the way!
1000 Hills Experience
Immerse yourself in the culture, beauty and history of the fascinating Valley of 1000 Hills. Explore the undulating landscape as it rises up along banks of the Umgeni River flowing from the distant Drakensberg Mountains. For something really different, book an authentic cultural tour with a stay over in a traditional Zulu homestead.
Durban City Centre
For some urban excitement, take a break from the coast and tour Durban’s bustling inner city instead. Wander on foot through the historical town centre. Check out the impressive City Hall featuring the Concert Hall and the Natural Science Museum. Venture down to the Victoria Street Market where over 180 traders display silk saris, fragrant spices, carved curios and so much more.
Drakensberg Mountains
Outdoor enthusiasts can get their fix with a day trip to the magnificent Drakensberg Mountains. Pack some padkos and head inland through Pietermaritzburg, past Howick Falls and into the Natal Midlands where a picturesque village sets the scene. Next, take a thrilling four-wheel drive up Sani Pass to the top of the mountain overlooking Lesotho 3000m above sea level.
Wonder Market
Just as wonderful as it sounds, this food, craft and treasure market offers something for everyone, from kids and foodies to fashionistas and fun seekers. Try the super thin crust parma ham, rocket and parmesan pizzas. Wash it down with some refreshing homemade lemonade. Then spoil yourself with a sweet treat or three.
Where: Chris Saunders Park, Umhlanga
When: Last Sunday of the month (9am – 2pm)
I Heart market
There certainly is plenty to love about this sprawling Saturday market. Featuring handmade jewellery, gourmet food, crafty ceramics, designer clothing and gorgeous décor, not to mention plenty of hidden gems and vintage treasures, it’s impossible not to fall head over heels for this enchanting market.
Where: Moses Mabhida Stadium
When: First Saturday of every month (9am – 2pm)
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