Hotels in Durban

Unveil the Coastal Charms of Durban: A Journey Through Sun, Surf, and Culture

Discover the vibrant city of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, where golden beaches meet the warm Indian Ocean. Renowned for its stunning coastline, Durban offers sun-soaked days on the sandy shores, adventure at the thrilling uShaka Marine World, and cultural experiences at the KwaMuhle Museum. Explore the bustling Victoria Street Market for a taste of local flavors and crafts, or take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Golden Mile. With its blend of rich history, diverse cultures, and lush landscapes, Durban is the perfect destination for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to immerse themselves in South Africa's unique charm. For the best hotel rates in Durban, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Durban

Some of the best places to stay in Durban are Durban Beachfront, North Beach and Morningside. Durban offers vibrant experiences, with the Durban Beachfront showcasing stunning ocean views and lively promenades, making it ideal for first-time visitors. North Beach is known for its bustling atmosphere and water sports, while Morningside offers a quieter, upscale vibe with lush greenery. Accommodations in these areas range from luxurious hotels with scenic views and modern amenities to cozy guesthouses, catering to various budgets and preferences. Enjoy a memorable stay in this beautiful coastal city! Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Durban:

1. Durban BeachfrontOpens in a new window: Known for its stunning coastline and vibrant atmosphere, Durban Beachfront is an ideal destination for families and beach lovers. With attractions like Durban Beach and uShaka Marine World nearby, this area offers plenty of activities for all ages. For accommodation, consider Suncoast Hotel & TowersOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star lodging that provides direct access to the beach and excellent amenities for both families and business travelers. Another great option is The Balmoral HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that also offers beach access and various adventure activities, making it perfect for thrill-seekers. Lastly, BalmoralOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star option that features an on-site casino and golf facilities, catering to those looking for entertainment and leisure.
2. North BeachOpens in a new window: North Beach is a family-friendly area that boasts beautiful sandy shores and a lively atmosphere. It’s close to attractions like the iconic Durban Beach and uShaka Marine World, making it a fun-filled destination. Bayside Hotel Pine StreetOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, offers various entertainment options and sports activities, ensuring guests have a memorable stay. For business travelers, ONOMO Hotel DurbanOpens in a new window provides essential amenities and services, while City Lodge Hotel DurbanOpens in a new window, also catering to business needs, offers a comfortable and convenient stay within a mile of North Beach.
3. MorningsideOpens in a new window: This charming neighborhood is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of luxury and local culture. Morningside is conveniently located near Durban Beach and attractions like uShaka Marine World. Endless Horizons Boutique HotelOpens in a new window stands out as a 5.0-star bed and breakfast with uniquely designed decor and excellent business facilities, creating a boutique experience. Another option is Audacia Manor Boutique HotelOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that combines family-friendly amenities with Victorian charm. Lastly, Auberge Hollandaise Guest House by Misty Blue HotelsOpens in a new window provides upscale accommodations and multiple meeting rooms, catering to both leisure and business travelers alike.

Things to do in Durban for first time

Durban offers a vibrant blend of stunning beaches, lush parks, and scenic mountains, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Enjoy thrilling activities like boating, sea diving, and hiking, while immersing yourself in lively festivals and exciting entertainment options. Three days here promises an unforgettable coastal adventure. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Durban:

• Day 1: Start your Durban adventure at Umhlanga Rocks Beach, where you can soak in the sun and enjoy the golden sands. After a relaxing morning, stroll over to Umhlanga Main Beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. As the day winds down, make your way to the iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse, a great spot for picturesque views and a lovely photo opportunity as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
• Day 2: Begin with a visit to Umgeni River Bird Park, where you can marvel at a variety of exotic birds in a lush, tropical setting. Following your birdwatching experience, head to the serene Japanese Gardens, a tranquil escape where beautiful landscapes and calming water features await. Conclude your day with a visit to the Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve, where you can take a peaceful walk through the mangroves, spotting wildlife and enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Day 3: Explore the breathtaking Paradise Valley Nature Reserve, where hiking trails and scenic views provide a perfect start to your day. Next, visit Ebuhleni, a cultural experience where you can learn about local traditions and crafts. Finally, wrap up your itinerary at Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy wildlife sightings and enjoy the beautiful landscapes, making for a memorable end to your Durban trip.

5 tips to find a great Durban hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Durban is between October and December, when hotel prices are lower. If you're an international traveler, it's wise to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure better deals. For a budget-friendly trip, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the city's main attractions, such as its beautiful beaches and exciting theme parks. With great value for money, Durban offers a perfect getaway for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Explore enticing last-minute deals to Durban, where you could find fantastic hotel rates just days before your trip. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, simply navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section. Here, you may discover competitive prices on hotels with good availability. To maximize your chances of snagging a deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions. Don't miss the opportunity to save on your Durban getaway!
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may differ due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the chances that you'll save on hotel expenses in Durban.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Durban is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the center, you can utilize transportation options like minibus taxis and buses to explore the area while keeping costs down.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Durban. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Durban

Here are some top-rated dishes in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa:

• Bunny Chow: A beloved street food originating from Durban's Indian community, Bunny Chow consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry. This dish reflects the region's rich cultural tapestry and is perfect for a quick bite while exploring the vibrant streets. Traditionally enjoyed with your hands, Bunny Chow offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that showcases the local culinary heritage.
• Boerewors: This traditional South African sausage, made from coarsely minced beef and spices, is a favorite at braais (barbecues). In Durban, you can find Boerewors rolls served at food stalls and markets, often accompanied by a tangy chutney or tomato sauce. The communal aspect of sharing Boerewors at gatherings makes it a delightful way to experience local culture and flavors.

Best time to go to Durban

Durban experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 62.1°F (16.7°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.9°F (23.3°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Durban are January, September, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, May, August, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

Durban Travel Information