umhlanga tourism information centre

Welcome to Umhlanga Tourism

‘Umhlanga’ is Zulu and means ‘place of the reeds’. It is so named because of the profusion of reeds on the banks of the Ohlange River that flows just north of Umhlanga.  The area was part of an ancient coastal dune forest system which today still provides sanctuary for small wildlife.

WELCOME TO YOUR UMHLANGA HOLIDAY

Umhlanga Rocks Tourism provides information on accommodation, and how to spend your Umhlanga holiday. Find things here to  see & do , tours , restaurants and hundreds of superb places to stay on our beautiful coastline.

Our Latest Listings

• 26 THE SHADES
• 15 Chartwell Drive. Umhlanga

• 23 BRONZE BEACH

• 22 PARK LANE

• 21 THE SHADES

• 18 BRONZE BAY

• 17 THE SHADES

• 16 THE SHADES

• 14 BRONZE BAY

• 6 Wedgewood Terrace

• Sani Seaforth Country Lodge
• Seaforth Farm Seaforth Avenue,, Foxhill, Umhlali, Ballito, 4390

• Dante Languages
• 1 Torsvale cres. Umhlanga

• 6-8 Lagoon Drive, Pearls Umhlanga Rocks

• Little Havana

• Mushroom Lounge
• 16 Chartwell Drive, Umhlanga

• Vegas Sports Café
• 14 Chartwell Drive , Umhlanga.

• Apex Vehicle Rental KZN
• 6 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga, uMhlanga, South Africa

• Jaak & Mel’s Adventures

• Durban Flying Dress
• 10 Chislehurst Close, Brighton Beach, Bluff, 4052, South Africa

• Incredible India
• 6-8 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga, uMhlanga, South Africa

Visit Beautiful

Enjoy a laid-back family holiday along umhlanga’s gorgeous stretch of coastline..

View the video of our Umhlanga Coastline … get a quick visual tour.

Listing Categories

Where to Stay in Umhlanga Rocks.

DO & SEE

What to Do & See in Umhlanga Rocks.

EAT & DRINK

Where to Eat Out in Umhlanga Rocks.

Need help to plan your Umhlanga Holiday?

PERFECTLY POSITIONED

Why stay in Umhlanga? Well, firstly, Umhlanga is perfectly situated on the east coast of South Africa just north of the vibrant port city of Durban. It’s only ten minutes south of King Shaka International Airport. It faces the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and has the best South African accommodation , with superb  self-catering apartments ,  luxury hotels ,  lodges and B&Bs . Its beautiful coastline attracts visitors from around the world.

Stroll into central Umhlanga and experience a village vibe and fine dining

Enjoy sumptuous cuisine, things to do in umhlanga, find your best adventure.

Thirdly, an Umhlanga holiday offers plenty to do. Ocean enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers will be in their element. Surfing, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, kiteboarding and microlight flips are all available.  Shopping Centres, like Gateway, the best South African tour operators, nature trails , nearby golf courses and Sibaya Casino, are just some of the key attractions Umhlanga has to offer.

Appreciate nature in the unique Hawaan Forest & Lagoon Nature Reserves

Take a walk on the wild side ....

While enjoying the outdoors you can also explore a heritage trail, or take to the forests and revel in nature that is aeons old.

‘Umhlanga’ is Zulu and means ‘place of the reeds’. It is so named because of the profusion of reeds on the banks of the Ohlange River that flows just north of Umhlanga. The area was part of an ancient coastal dune forest system which today still provides sanctuary for small wildlife.

Plan some high-end shopping or book a cultural or historical tour inland.

Explore further afield ....

After enjoying Umhlanga itself why not use the town as a base to discover treasures further away? From Umhlanga golden sandy beaches stretch northwards for more than 200 kilometres, all the way to the spectacular Isimangaliso Wetland Park, a world heritage site. Inland from Umhlanga, endless fields of sugarcane give way to the undulating landscape of the Valley of 1000 Hills, Hazelmere Dam, the mystical hidden valleys of Zululand and the spectacular Drakensberg.

Festivals take place annually at Main Beach during the popular holiday seasons

Maximum funshine.

And lastly, certain times of year in Umhlanga offer additional fun. The Umhlanga Summer Festivals, Easter Festivals and Winter Festivals have been staged in their present form since 2005. They take place annually at Main Beach during the popular holiday seasons when thousands of visitors flock to Umhlanga Rocks.  

Festivities have included beach games and entertainment, beauty pageants, charity Carols evenings, trail runs, fun runs, water sport contests and street parades.  

(See our gallery of photos and videos of previous festivals) .  

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Where can you find umhlanga tourism, umhlanga tourism is here to help you plan your umhlanga holiday, your friendly, regular, available, local, responsible, community tourist centre on the funshine coast.

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Ideal duration: 1-2 days

Best Time: April - September

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"Coastal Retreat and Modern Sophistication"

Umhlanga tourism.

Umhlanga, a coastal town situated in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa, is an ideal vacation destination for beach lovers. Its picturesque beaches, warm climate, and diverse attractions are the main reasons to visit here. From the iconic lighthouse to the Ushaka Marine World, this place has a variety of attractions to explore.

Umhlanga is known for its beaches where travelers can relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a range of water sports. The Umhlanga Rocks beach is the most popular one, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Visitors can also explore the nearby attractions such as the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, The Wave House, and the Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom. The Umhlanga Lighthouse is one of the highlights of the town. It is situated at the entrance of the beach and is the perfect spot for taking photos with stunning views of the Umhlanga Coastline. The nearby Ushaka Marine World is a great place to visit with the family. It features an aquarium, water parks, restaurants, and more. Other activities that travelers can enjoy in Umhlanga are whale watching, deep-sea fishing, and boat cruising. They can also explore the nearby game parks and wildlife sanctuaries. For nightlife and entertainment, there are several bars, pubs, and clubs in the area. Overall, Umhlanga is a great place to visit for a fun-filled vacation. Travelers should remember to bring their swimwear and sunscreen and to be cautious when swimming in the ocean due to the strong currents.

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uMhlanga Pier

The most beautiful pier, in the world.

The uMhlanga pier was named the most beautiful pier in the world by CNN. After your morning walk along the uMhlanga promenade have a rest at the uMhlanga pier and watch the sun rise and enjoy the beautiful view of the uMhlanga coastline.

• 078 658 5538

Related Attractions

Nature trails uMhlanga

Go for a leisured hour-and-a-half walk at the uMhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve. The trail is on a well-marked path where you can wonder through the coastal forest on boardwalks that cross the Ohlange River.

The Oyster Box

The Oyster Box is an award-winning 5-star luxury boutique hotel and spa and member of Leading Hotels of the World in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

uMhlanga Lighthouse

The uMhlanga Lighthouse is a beautiful lighthouse that was built on the uMhlanga coastline so that it can warn ships of the dangers of the Southern Africa’s treacherous waters and to also welcome the ships sailing to safety of the Durban Harbour.

Things to do in Umhlanga

Umhlanga is the perfect vacation spot with glorious weather. This coastal town is just north of Durban in South Africa and is renowned for its stunning beaches, upscale resorts, and lively atmosphere. This bustling destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, with its iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse and scenic promenade. 

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Umhlanga Lighthouse

No trip to Umhlanga is complete without a visit to the ( 📍 ) Umhlanga Lighthouse. This iconic red-and-white structure stands proudly on the shoreline, serving as a beacon for ships navigating the Indian Ocean. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but it makes for a fantastic photo opportunity.

If you want to indulge in some luxury, the ( 📍 ) Oyster Box is a world-renowned hotel that promises an unforgettable experience. Enjoy their famous afternoon tea, dine at their exquisite restaurants (definitely try their breakfast buffet!) or grab a drink at the Lighthouse Bar. The Oyster Box offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the Umhlanga Lighthouse, making it a perfect spot for a romantic evening or a special celebration.

Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve

Nature lovers will find the ( 📍 ) Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve to be a haven of tranquillity and natural beauty. This coastal reserve offers walking trails that meander through lush forests and along the lagoon. This is a free activity that is ideal for the whole family.

Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve Walk

Gateway Mall

For a bit of urban excitement, head to the ( 📍 ) Gateway Shopping Mall. This is one of the largest malls in the Southern Hemisphere. There are a variety of stores, many restaurants, a cinema and even a wave park.

Umhlanga Beach

You have to spend some time on the beautiful beaches of Umhlanga. The ( 📍 ) main beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and surfing. The warm waters and golden sands make it an ideal spot to unwind and soak up the South African sun.

Umhlanga Promenade

( 📍 ) The promenade is a great way to experience the coastal charm of this area. This scenic walkway stretches several kilometres along the beachfront, providing spectacular ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s perfect for a morning jog, an afternoon walk, or a peaceful evening stroll. Along the way, you’ll find benches, cafes, and restaurants where you can take a break and enjoy the surroundings.

If you want to explore the surrounding areas, here are two great day trips you can try:

Ballito has to be one of my favourite spots in KwaZulu-Natal. It is a short 20-minute drive from Umhlanga with some great ocean views. 

There are many great beaches and tidal pools to visit, you can wander along the wooden boardwalk, enjoy the great coffee culture, visit the famous Hole in the Wall, and so much more!

Things to do in Ballito

uShaka Marine World

Planning a day trip to ( 📍 ) uShaka Marine World in Durban is a fantastic way to add some extra excitement to your coastal vacation. Just a short 20-minute drive away, uShaka Marine World offers a world of adventure with its thrilling water slides and fascinating aquarium. Spend the day exploring the diverse marine life, riding the slides, and enjoying a vibrant beachfront atmosphere. 

Make sure you also stop at the Kudla Pier, that is located right next to uShaka Marine World. 

Where to eat in Umhlanga?

There are a diverse array of restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences.

From upscale fine dining establishments like the acclaimed The Ocean Terrace at the Oyster Box, which offers exquisite seafood with stunning ocean views, to trendy cafes and bistros serving up contemporary dishes. 

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Cartwell Drive, where you’ll find a mix of international cuisines and local favourites. 

My favourite restaurants are:

• ( 📍 ) Bellèzar Beach Cafe & Bar
• ( 📍 ) La Spiaggia
• ( 📍 ) Grimaldi’s
• ( 📍 ) The Village Table
• ( 📍 ) Mary & Joe

Where to stay in Umhlanga?

Accommodation in Umhlanga tends to be a blend of luxury, comfort, and scenic beauty. This coastal town boasts a range of accommodations to suit every traveller. Here are some suggestions:

• Anchor’s Rest $ – BOOK HERE
• Beverly Hills $$ – BOOK HERE
• The Capital Pearls Hotel $$ – BOOK HERE
• Oyster Box $$$ – BOOK HERE

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Top 15 Umhlanga Activities

Umhlanga, which means “place of reeds” in Zulu, is known for its coastal-lying beauty, classy shopping malls and, perhaps above all else, as Durban’s popular resort town, so it’s only natural to find some epic adventures lying in store here.

Umhlanga , located in KwaZulu-Natal province, is a place of beauty, shopping joys and fun activities for the whole family.

Here are some of the best activities to enjoy in Umhlanga (and nearby areas):

#1 See the Light with Umhlanga Lighthouse

This rather iconic, 21-metre high lighthouse is white with a topside red stripe and offers a light range of 24 sea miles.

It not only doubles as a tourist attraction and popular local landmark, but it also, naturally, safely guides ships to shore.

And although this isn’t a lighthouse that you can explore from within, it’s definitely one you need to snap a picture of or pass by when visiting Umhlanga.

Contact: n/a

Website: n/a

Address: East Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga, KZN

#2 Catch a tan at Umhlanga Main Beach

This popular beach offers a few fun things to enjoy. Not only can you tan and surf, but you can also swim in the granny’s pool, with the knowledge that there are life guards on duty.

Visitors can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas and enjoy taking in the sights from nearby benches.

Parking is minimal so, if you can, it’s best to get there early to secure a spot. The beach is clean (and thus most perfect for beach walks!) and there are toilet facilities found , as well as a nicely maintained walkway. Ice-cream shops nearby will delight children and adults alike.

Contact: (031) 561 4257

Website: www.umhlangatourism.co.za

Address: Umhlanga Main Beach, Umhlanga, KZN

#3 Get your shopping fix at Gateway

Gateway Theatre of Shopping is the ultimate retail and entertainment experience, offering everything from fashion to dining and movies.

It’s considered to be one of SA’s most elite retail shopping stores, with over +390 stores and 70 eateries, and frequently brings world-class events, competitions and entertainment to town. What’s more, it offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Contact: (031) 514 0500

Website: www.gatewayworld.co.za

Address: 1 Palm Boulevard, Umhlanga Ridge, Umhlanga, KZN

#4 Enjoy a beach day at La Lucia Beach

While not strictly within Umhlanga, it’s close enough to warrant a mention… and it certainly deserves one! Offering a tropical element, La Lucia is close to paradise, with its coral reef and colourful fish. It’s ideal for snorkelling, diving, surfing and swimming.

It offers wonderful tranquility, despite being relatively close to the city centre… so if you’re in Umhlanga, you will definitely want to take a drive to enjoy some time at La Lucia Beach.

Website: www.sa-venues.com

Address: La Lucia, Umhlanga Coast, KZN

#5 Lace up for Umhlanga Lagoon Hiking Trail

Located on the periphery of this resort town, Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve is nevertheless a popular nature lovers’ haunt.

The trail winds by past a picnic area, crossing over a wooden boardwalk into a coastal forest, inhabited by all manner of local wildlife, including veret moneys, buck, birds and even butterflies. Some of the trees have labels so you can learn while you ramble.

Address: Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve, Umhlanga, KZN

#6 Catch a movie at IMAX Theatre Gateway

With pretty epic effects, good audio, comfy interiors and prime location within Gateway Theatre of Shopping, this will definitely be your go-to movie spot for all the major flicks, provided you can afford to splash out a little…

It’ll blow your socks off as you experience your favourite film in ultra high definition 3D on a very big screen indeed!

Contact: (031) 566 4415

Website: movies.sterkinekor.co.za

Address: IMAX Theatre Gateway, Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Umhlanga, KZN

#7 Visit KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board

Enjoy an educational and insightful visit to the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board Maritime Centre of Excellence (also known as KZNSB), a global leader in shark protection, as well as in key environmental and tourism efforts.

Not only does the KZNSB maintain the 37 beaches found along the KZN coastline, but it also conducts shark biological research and offers fascinating public education programmes.

Activities visitor can enjoy, both at and with KZNSB, run as follows: boat trips, audio-visual and shark dissections, a museum, a curio shop and conference facilities. Be sure to visit them and learn more about these misunderstood ocean predators.

Contact: (031) 566 0400

Website: www.shark.co.za

Address: 1a Herrwood Drive, Umhlanga, KZN

#8 Take to the greens at Umhlanga Bowling Club

Have a bowl at this fun and free facility, which is also wheel-chair friendly and happily suitable for all ages. Registered coaches and officials are on-site to ensure that the rules are understood and that help is offered where needed.

The bowling green is not only a great place to enjoy some bowls but it’s also available to hire for corporate and function days.

Contact: (074) 639 4028

Address: 75 Twilight Drive, Umhlanga Rocks, KZN

#9 Shop till you drop at The Pearls Mall

If you need a little retail therapy, look no further than the relatively new and exciting, The Pearls Mall, which opened in late 2016.

This classy, high-end boutique mall not only offers excellent shopping, but it also includes a host of delightful coffee shops and eateries, like African Roots Coffee, Casa Bella and Doppio Zero to name just a few.

Strut your stuff as you enjoy some fun shopping and eating out at the Pearls.

Contact: (031) 940 6840

Website: thepearls.co.za

Address: The Pearls Mall, The Pearls, Umhlanga Rocks, KZN

#10 Sip some good java at African Roots Coffee

The still newly-opened coffee shop, located within the glamorous Pearls Mall, is already taking the Umhlanga area by storm. The still newly-opened coffee shop, located within the glamorous Pearls Mall, is already taking the Umhlanga area by storm.

Coffee lovers will rejoice upon discovering this speciality coffee shop, which serves only the finest African origin Arabica coffees. If you really love their java and would love some to enjoy at home, you can also shop for different blends on their site.

You can also order artisanal light meals, such as breakfast (includes banting-friendly and health eats), Danish-style open sandwiches, veggie quiches and locally baked cakes, to complement the fine coffee and speciality teas on offer at African Roots Coffee.

Contact: (087) 941 4591

Website: www.africanrootscoffee.co.za

Address: Pearls Mall, The Pearls, 6 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga Rocks, KZN

#11 Grab a bite to eat at Village Table

If you agree that eating is a great activity to partake in, then you are going to want to visit Village Table, where you can enjoy some delicious food in a very attractive setting.

Bringing life experiences from pantry to plate, Village Table is all about aesthetically appealing food and restaurant atmosphere both.

Contact: (087) 288 4235

Website: villagetable.co.za

Address: 6 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga, KZN

#12 Have some fun at WavePark Gateway

This fun, affordable and clean spot is a great, family-friendly location where visitors can enjoy a water park with a super tube and other water-based activities (making it a safe place to learn to surf), as well as a pump track for bikes, scooters or skates for those who prefer to stay dry.

It’s also offers a fun toddler area for the little ones – and generally makes for an enjoyable day out for all, whether young or old.

Contact: (031) 584 9400

Website: N/A

Address: G240, Gateway Theatre of Shopping, 1 Palm Boulevard, KZN

#13 Explore Hawaan Forest

Immerse yourself in this beautiful forest, which offers a woodland enclosed by the Ohlanga River and the ocean. It is home to large number of birds and animals, and remains wonderfully unspoiled even to this day.

The Hawaan Trails are not open to the public due to preserving conservation efforts but you can partake in a guided trail and learn more about this unique ecosystem, which is home to creatures of all kinds.

Address: Hawaan Forest, Umhlanga, KZN

#14 Enjoy great food at Olive & Oil

Tuck into comfort food at this cheerful eatery, where fresh ingredients come together beautifully to supply guests with wholesome meals.

Friendly staff and unrivalled hospitality will ensure you feel right at home too.

Contact: (031) 561 2618

Website: oliveandoil.co.za

Address: Olive & Oil, 15 Chartwell Drive, Umhlanga, KZN

#15 Walk along Umhlanga Promenade

Of course, one way to really take in some of the best sights Umhlanga has to offer is by simply enjoying a leisurely walk along the promenade.

Or, if you prefer, go for a 4.6km-odd jog and ensure you stay fit and healthy, while absorbing the gorgeous scenery and surrounding views.

Address: Umhlanga, KZN

These are just some of the fun and varied activities you can enjoy when visiting the Fun-Shine Coast!

 Book your Umhlanga Getaway Now!

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