Hotels in Durban

If you are looking for the best hotels in Durban to stay then you are in the right place. Durban is one of South Africa’s 3 major cities, along with Cape Town and Johannesburg. It is a coastal town which is popular with vacationers looking for resort and the like.

What sets Durban apart from Cape Town is that it is next to the Indian ocean and the waters here are much warmer than those in the western cape which is on the border between the Indian ocean and the Atlantic Ocean.

Why Visit Durban?

Apart from being an idyllic coastal town, a lot of South Africa’s cultural history has its roots in the area. The world-reknowned Zulu culture has its roots in this area, which is why the province that Durban is found in is called KwaZulu Natal. There are plenty of things to do in Durban and the surrounds.

Durban is well known  for resorts and 5 start hotels. The Umhlanga area is one of the most luxurious in the country, sporting a skyline that rivals some of the world’s best. Another reason it is a firm favourite for locals is that things are much more affordable in Durban than its coastal contemporary in the west Cape Town. The warm waters of Durban also attract a lot of watersports and local tourists.

How To Choose A Hotel In Durban

There are three main factors that you will want to consider when deciding on a place to stay in Durban. The first will be budget. There are hotels that range from affordable accommodation under R1000 a night, to 5 star luxury that is up to R5000 a night.

After budget, the main factors will be the standard of the hotels and amenities, and then the location of the hotel in terms of how close it is to where you want to be. The two popular sides to location are either central, near the town centre and other points of interest, and then a getaway, away from the hustle and bustle, with scenic environments and view.

Durban has a selection of accommodation that will meet all preferences and budgets. Whether you are looking for modest accommodation for a large group, or for a 5 star hotel with all the luxuries and trimmings, there is variety to meet all tastes. We have separated this list into sections that include the most luxurious, as well as affordable hotels that offer good value for money.

Factors that we have taken into account when selecting the best hotels include the standard of the hotel above everything. Thereafter we looked at the location of each hotel, which determines its convenience in terms of its proximity to popular attractions that visitors like to visit.

5 Star Hotels In Durban

Beverly Hills Hotel, Umhlanga

If only the best will do for you and you are looking for a 5 star hotel that is worthy of royalty and industry leaders, you can’t go wrong with Beverly Hills. The hotel itself is a piece of Durban’s history and first opened its doors in 1964. Elegance and top class hospitality are the order of the day. The hotel is right against the beach and offers uninterrupted views of the Indian ocean from every corner.

The pool area is the ultimate place for relaxing. You can recline on one of the loungers with a cocktail and luxuriate in the unsurpassed ocean view. If you fancy a short stroll to the beach, the boardwalk is right on your doorstep.

The interior decorations are made to be luxurious, with the perfect blend of style that bridges that perfectly straddles the line between contemporary and a classical. From the trendy blend of aluminium and marble, to the statement chandeliers and comfy couches, everything at Beverly Hills Hotel is built to impress.

The staff at the reception area is very well trained and professional, treating you to hospitality of the highest order. The rooms at the hotel all accommodate two, each with a large double bed. All the amenities that you want from a hotel are available to you.  Dining is also a sensory experience. Few experiences are as refreshing as an al fresco lunch at the elements café with expansive views over the ocean.

The Oyster Box

The Oyster Box, like its name implies, is one of the jewels in Durban’s selection of seaside luxury hotels. The 5 Star hotel sits right on Umhlanga’s beach front.  Perfectly placed, Oyster Box sports uninterrupted views of the Indian ocean and overlooks Umhlanga’s iconic lighthouse.

The luxurious rooms and suites comprise a selection of garden and sea-facing rooms. The rooms are decorated with rich fabrics and furnishings that provide a mix of comfort and style. For the family group, there is a family room with a sea view that has an extra large double bed (or 2 singles) and 2 bunk beds for the little ones.

The children’s playroom has activities that will make the visit extra special for the kids.When it comes to food and drink, you are spoiled for choice. Choose between the 6 restaurants that offer culinary dishes to satisfy every palette, from signature and contemporary dishes to a light snack on the rooftop bar. Be sure to indulge in the famous curry feast and High Tea for the truly 5 star experience.

This hotel is run like a top shelf establishment, with familiar hospitality from the professional staff. There is painstaking attention to every detail in decor and comfort contribute to a spectacular experience meant to be memorable in every way.

Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel

Endless Horizons is a 5 Star boutique hotel in the suburb of Durban north with a host of awards under its belt including the World Luxury Hotel awards. It’s a perfect escape for the discerning traveller who want enjoy a serene getaway surrounded by greenery and away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Rooms

The hotel boasts 12 unique and luxuriously decorated rooms. The rooms vary from a executive and deluxe king rooms to a suite with a balcony and the king rooms with sea views. The rooms are decorated luxuriously with a strong focus on textures and natural elements.

All rooms come with an extra-large double bed and can accommodate two adults. Our recommended choice is easily the sea facing rooms that enjoy views over Umhlanga Beach.

Location

The hotel is located in Durban north right next to Virginia Bush Nature reserve. The location enjoys the surrounding natural area, as well as views over the ocean and reasonable proximity to key destinations while still being away from too much activity. Everything from the Airport to stadiums and Gateway Theatre of Shopping, is within a 20km radius.

Amenities

At Endless Horizons you will enjoy all the amenities you expect in a 5 Star experience, like a room service breakfast from your balcony overlooking the ocean. The hotel has a large wooden deck with an infinity pool and a 180 degree view of the coast, and is as ideal a place for al fresco dining as it is for kicking back.

There is an on-site restaurant which serves gourmet dishes, as well as a casual terrace menu if you are looking for a lighter meal. Other facilities include a gymnasium, mini bar and complimentary WiFi in every room.

Overall

Endless Horizons is a serene getaway and a perfect destination for those who want to relax. From the surroundings to the architecture and décor, it is purposefully designed to give you a calming and Zen feeling through the use of clean lines and open spaces. The package is capped off with attention to detail and service that is highly attentive without being intrusive.

Affordable Hotels in Durban

The Hilton Hotel

The Hilton Durban is definitely at the top among the best hotels in Durban. The Hilton brand of hotels in well known around the world and this hotel meets the standard people have come to expect and then some. The hotel is an iconic landmark in the city of Durban and is situated right next door the Durban International Convention Centre.

Whether you are in Durban for business or for leisure, the Hilton is conveniently located, with easy access to key points of interest. Durban’s North Beach is only 5 minutes away, as are the big local stadiums like Moses Mabhida, Kingsmead Stadium and Greyville Racecourse

The rooms at the hotel are tastefully decorated with contemporary décor and subtle African art pieces. You have a large selection of room s to choose from. The rooms and suits range from standard guest rooms with a the option of a King sized bed or twin singles, to executive rooms with which are styled to impress, with the luxurious trimmings and large windows to maximize the views of the city and the ocean.

For your dining needs, delectable dishes are served at the hotels selection of 3 restaurants which provide a variety from light meals, to a wine bar and grill, to fine a la carte dining at Vasco’s Restaurant. If you would rather eat in, there is 24 hour rooms service available.

Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani

Southern Sun Elangeni is a 4 star hotel and part of the Tsogo Sun hotel group which is one of the leading hospitality groups in South Africa. It is located in Durban’s North Beach and built to have a resort-like atmosphere. It is one of the landmark hotels of Durban’s Golden Mile, with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean.  Elangeni also boasts the titles of the largest residential and conference hotel in the province.

Rooms

The rooms at Elangeni come in different sizes, from the superior rooms and junior suites which host 2, to deluxe and twin rooms which can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children.

The rooms are tastefully furnished with modern décor that features neutral colours and natural textured materials. With the water’s edge just a few metres away, you can enjoy views from your hotel.

Location

The location of the hotel is top shelf. The hotel enjoys unobstructed views over the Indian ocean and the beach is a 5 minute stroll away. The hotel is also conveniently located in close proximity of popular points of interest like Kingsmead Stadium and Durban International Conference Centre, which are within a 1km radius.

Amenities

The is no shortage of amenities available to you when staying at this hotel. The hotel is also home to an in-house Mangwanani spa and a fitness centre.

When you want to kick back or take in the rays, you will have a choice of three heated swimming pools, including a rooftop pool that enjoys 180 degree views over Durban’s coastline.

Meals can be enjoyed at your choice of the 4 on-site restaurants which offer a diverse array of international cuisine in a buffet or a la carte menu

There is a concierge service that will assist you with your activities during your stay, everything from bicycle hire to taking care of your bags while you hit the beach.

Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel and there is on-site parking available for guests who are driving. Airport shuttle is also available.

Overall

Southern Sun Elangeni being part of the Tsogo Sun group comes with the requisite quality standards you expect from Sun hotels. The hotel is great for vacationers and business travellers alike, thanks to its proximity to the key places of interest and the conference centre.

The Capital Pearls

The Capital Pearls is the ideal destination for the budget conscious traveller who wants value for their buck. This hotel has some of the most accessible accommodation of this high standard. What sets it apart from the competitors is that it has a single budget room that is ideal for the single and budget conscious guest. Naturally, there are rooms of sizes that will meet guest’s needs, from one bedroom apartments for couples, to 4 bedroom suites for large groups or families that can accommodate up to 8 people.

All rooms come with a free WiFi. Free private parking is also available at the hotel. The in-house restaurant serves buffet breakfast and lunch on a daily basis, and there is 24 hour in-room dining.  If you want to eat out, the popular restaurant Doppio Zero is right downstairs.

If you want to get out of the hotel, there is plenty to do. The Capital Pearls is conveniently located near the Pearls Mall with a wide range of shops and restaurants.  You are right on the waterfront where it is safe to walk and do a morning jog while the sun comes up. For some physical activity, there are two spas at the hotel. Guests at the hotel also get daily complimentary access to the Planet Fitness gym inside the Pearls Mall.

Best Affordable Hotels In Durban

ONOMO Hotel Durban

ONOMO hotel Durban is part of the ONOMO group of hotels that has 20 hotels in Africa and is well known throughout the continent. ONOMO hotels place an emphasis on the art of African hospitality, and is immersed in the culture that is authentic to its local location. In that sense, ONOMO Hotel Durban is rooted in local authenticity, from the aesthetic design and décor, to the cuisine.

Rooms

The rooms at the hotel come in the choice of a standard queen room with a large double bed, or a standard twin room with 2 single beds. The rooms are furnished in a unique and African inspired style that consist of natural textures that consist of wood and finished brick. This is completed by a stylish use of black and white that gives a perfect fusion between African and modern.

Location

ONOMO Durban is centrally located in North Beach, within reach of tourist attractions and the commercial district. It is situated between the beach and Kingsmead stadium, each of them being 200m east and west respectively. Business travellers will also enjoy close proximity to the ICC convention centre, as well as the business district of Durban Central. King Shaka International airport is 30 minutes’ drive away, and the hotel has an airport shuttle service.

Amenities

All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a work desk and a laptop safe for the business traveller. You can also remain connected as uncapped WiFi is available throughout the hotel. For your dining requirements, there is an on-site restaurant and bar.

Under the name ONOMOtaste, the restaurant serves Afrofusion cuisine made from locally sourced fresh produce. Additional facilities include a fitness centre, an outdoor pool and meeting rooms among many others.

Overall

The ONOMO brand is well-known throughout the continent and if you are looking for a distinctly African experience, it is an easy recommendation. The hotel was opened and 2018 so the facilities nice and new. It is close enough to the beach for you to stroll to and the service at the hotel is of a high order.  At its price point, it offers good value for money.

Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel

If you are looking for something different and stylish, you might well find it at Coastlands. The hotel overlooks the dolphin coast, offering 4 star rooms with distinct and stylish décor. All the rooms in the hotel have either a full sea view or a partial sea view with skyline views of the city. The rooms have king sized beds and are equipped with individually controlled air conditioning and convenience amenities. The hotel is modern with striking decorations comprising strong natural colours.

You will be a 5 minute walk away from the Umhlanga promenaded and the mega shopping destination, Umhlanga Gateway Shopping Mall. For lunch and dinner, you can enjoy varied buffets and an a la carte menu at Saffron Restaurant. Room services is available on request. For a quick drink, you canstop by Vanilla Bar and coffee shop.

If you want to kick back, have a cocktail at the swimming pool, or have a rejuvenating session at the Fleur-de-Lis spa. The dedicated staff are always on hand to ensure that you are taken care of and that your stay is a memorable one.

Self-Catering Accommodation in Durban

Point Waterfront Apartments

The Point Waterfront Apartments are a great value proposition with its affordable price point, large apartments and beautiful rooms. This one is great for the family holiday thanks to the size of the apartments which are catered to vacation rentals.

Rooms

The rooms at the apartments come in various sizes like the deluxe one bedroomed apartments, all the way up to premium suites with canal or ocean views that can accommodate up to 6 adults.

The rooms are spacious and kept clean by the friendly staff. There is also quiet during the night and the day. The staff enforce the rule regarding noise so if you are looking for a peaceful stay, this is a good place for you.

Location

Point Waterfront Apartments is unique in our list, thanks to its location in the Durban harbour. harbour. You have amazing views of ships coming in and out throughout the day, as well as the island view right across the water. The apartments are a short 10 minute walk away from Ushaka Marine world where you will find all the entertainment and dining requirements.

Amenities

If you are driving, there is free underground parking. Other amenities include free WiFi, a swimming pool and an airport shuttle on request. The lodging is for self-catering accommodation and you get a fully equipped kitchen with which to prepare meals. Restaurants are within walking distance if you need to eat out. There are also barbeque facilities available for your use.

Overall

While on your stay, we strongly recommend a gondola ride in the canal as a unique experience in the area. There is a sense of solitude when you stay here so if you are looking to plan a party, The Point might not be idea. But if a peaceful retreat near the ocean is what you are after, you can’t go wrong with The Point Waterfront Apartments.

Quayside 102 Durban Point Waterfront

Quayside round up our list as another self-catering option at a good price point. It is located in the Durban harbour and is ideal for the large family or a group. It is located in the Point Precinct which is an up and coming neighbourhood near the UShaka complex.

Rooms

The Quayside 102 apartment is a split level apartment with a mezzanine like level and the bedrooms being on both the upper and lower levels. There are 3 bedrooms, 2 with double beds and 1 with 2 singles, as well as a sofa bed.

All in all it can accommodate up to 7 adults , which is great for a group or large family. The white linens give together with the interior décor give the place light up the place and everything is clean and neat as a pin.

Location

The location in The Point Precinct is convenient with everything you need being nearby. Whether you are looking to see the sights or have a simple day out, there is uShaka Marine World in walking distance, and a host of museums and galleries in a 5km radius. The beach is also right in reach, with Ushaka Beach being 400m away,

Amenities

The self-catering lodging comes with a fully equipped kitchen, along with a dishwasher and a large dining table.  Free WiFi is included in the stay and there is also free parking on-site.

For recreation, there are barbeque facilities and an outdoor pool in the complex. Outside of the complex, you are surrounded by places you can go to.

Overall

The Quays 2 has a lot going for it. It is bright and modern and the everything in the apartment is neat. The split level with the double volume, coupled with the ceiling high walls gives the entire place a spacious feel. Along with the space for a big group and the price point, it gives a lot of value for money and an all-round great experience.