Umhlanga Visitors Guide 2024
Umhlanga Visitors Guide 2024
Umhlanga Visitors Guide 2024
: 17
www.visitdurban.travel
Umhlanga-The-Funshine-Coast
UmhlangaTourism
@UmhlangaTourism
A warm welcome from Umhlanga Tourism
The sun-blessed collective suburbia of Durban North, Verulam, Umdloti, Tongaat, Westbrook, Mount Edgecombe,
Sunningdale, La Mercy, La Lucia and the internationally -renowned borough of Umhlanga Rocks itself join together as
Umhlanga Tourism to extend a typically warm South African welcome to you, our visitors.
Nestling on the eastern seaboard of Colonial history came to the fore on this coastline in the 19th century.
Africa with the warm Indian Ocean Into this period, Mahatma Gandhi, a young English-trained barrister, stepped
lapping at her shores, this cluster of onto the international stage, cutting his teeth in world politics after living in
vibrant ‘villages’ encompasses ancient Phoenix, Durban. You can visit his Phoenix Settlement and home in Inanda
forests, lagoon and mangroves. The 12 kilometers from Umhlanga`s Iconic lighthouse. According to former
history of the present-day Umhlanga President Nelson Mandela, Inanda is one of the most historically important
dates back to the time of our First- areas in South Africa and because of this, he chose to cast his first vote in this
Nation people, the Koi San Bushmen- tiny hunter-gatherers who roamed this unique corner of Greater Durban.
region long before any later-arriving nations. Wozani
Phoenician, Arab and Chinese seaman followed this marine routing,
eager to trade. Jeannie Sarno
The weather is superb, the Indian Ocean is welcoming and we take pride Chairperson – Umhlanga Tourism
in having golden Blue Flag beaches that are both stunning and safe.
Beach activities led by world-renowned surfing, kite board surfing, body
boarding, tanning on the beach, internationally-famous historical sites,
world-class golf courses, the exciting world of thoroughbred horseracing
and ‘down the road’…. You are able to experience exciting ‘Big Five’ reserves.
Greater Durban, a mere 12 kilometers away, is an exciting multi-cultural
city where the Zulu nation meets East and West …. A wealth of influences
that entertain and enthral.
Acknowledgements Contact
Published by Artworks | www.artworks.co.za
Umhlanga Tourism Information Centre
in association with Umhlanga Tourism Information Centre
Information Desk, Pearls Mall, 6 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga Rocks
Photography: Samora Chapman, Peter Nelson, Justin Klusener, Durban
Tourism, Brenda Daniels, Umdloti Letting and Sales, Beautiful South Africa-
Tel: 031 561 4257
Andrea Ben, Christo Smith Photography, Greg Groenewald (GDSYN)
Email: info@umhlangatourism.co.za
While every care has been taken in the compilation of this publication, no liability can be Web: www.umhlangatourism.co.za
accepted by the publishers for any error or omissions that may occur. This publication is the Umhlanga-The-Funshine-Coast
exclusive property of the publishers and no part may be reproduced in any form without UmhlangaTourism
the prior written permission of the publishers. @UmhlangaTourism
T
here are close to 300 days of sunshine a year, and the seawater is warm
enough to swim in throughout summer and winter. Umhlanga Main
Beach and the neighbouring Bronze Beach to the north are protected
by shark nets and stationed by well-trained professional lifeguards. The
2.7km O’Connor Promenade runs from Durban View Park to Umhlanga
Lagoon Nature Reserve. It is a favourite for walkers and runners, and is dotted
with restaurants, takeaways, ablution facilities and ice cream sellers. The boat
launch site at Granny’s Pool, adjacent to the lifesavers’ clubhouse, allows
visitors to get out onto the water to fish from fishing charter boats.
To the north, the seaside village of Umdloti is set against green hills and
lush vegetation. It has some of the best beaches in the area, with a rock-
enclosed tidal pool and a wide lagoon. There is excellent fishing off the rocks
and safe swimming.
Further along the coast are Westbrook and Tongaat. These beaches are
quiet and offer great swimming and surfing, as well as a launching area for
boats.
T
here is a well-marked path that winds through pretty coastal forest
on boardwalks that cross the Ohlange River on its way to the lagoon,
buttressed by dunes. Benches and picnic spots are dotted throughout, and
you can follow the trail to reach the beach and the lagoon, and the remains of a
Stone Age seashell midden can also be found to the north of the lagoon.
The adjacent Hawaan Forest Reserve is inland of Umhlanga Lagoon
Nature Reserve. This indigenous woodland has remained in its natural state
for centuries, and is characterised by important species of trees with tropical
attributes, and many small animals. Entry is restricted, so phone ahead to book
a guided walk.
Contact: 031 561 2271
Hazelmere Dam and Resort, a few kilometres inland from Verulam, is
a favourite watersport destination. There are also picnic spots, and game such
as zebra and wildebeest can be seen. Dudley Pringle Dam north of Umdloti is
another dam with prolific birdlife.
5 | UMHLANGA AND SURROUNDS Visitors’ Guide UMHLANGA AND SURROUNDS Visitors’ Guide | 5
The Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve. Situated on the north bank of the Umgeni River, Beachwood Mangroves Nature
(Picture courtesy of Durban Green Corridor) Reserve is a 76-hectare reserve with the largest population of mangrove trees in
the Durban area. A raised boardwalk through the mangroves gives visitors the
opportunity to spot many rare bird species and the lopsided fiddler crabs that
call the mangroves home. The reserve is open to the general public on the third
Saturday of each month from 8am to 1pm.
Contact: 082 559 2839
Gateway into Africa
The Umhlanga coastline is the perfect stepping stone to the rest of southern
Africa, connected to all the major destinations by road and air. It is a short drive
to two World Heritage sites: the majestic mountains of the uKhahlamba-
Drakensberg Park in the west and the iSimangaliso Wetland
Park in the north, which is approximately a
three-hour drive by car or motorboat.
6 | UMHLANGA AND SURROUNDS Visitors’ Guide A perfect wave off Umhlanga Main Beach.
Non-stop Sport & Adventure
Umhlanga visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to top-notch
sporting facilities and adventure activities.
S
ea kayaking is a rapidly growing sport, and anglers often fish off
paddle skis where they catch dorado and barracuda. The best shore
angling spots are off the rocks at Umdloti and La Mercy.
If you like exploring trails at speed, mountain biking, dirt biking and A pleasant round of golf at Mount Edgecombe Country Club.
quad biking are all offered, from tours to day excursions to outrides. If you
fancy a flip through the air, microlighting and helicopter flights are offered
from Virginia Airport. Contact: 031 563 7101.
The annual Tour Durban cycle race is growing in popularity, offering
mountain bike and road bike races of varying distances through the Durban
and Umhlanga areas.
Swing away
Golfers are spoilt for choice with 11 courses all within a 35km radius of
Umhlanga. Mount Edgecombe, just inland of Umhlanga, offers two
championship golf courses designed to USPGA specifications. Both courses
are challenging but fair, and provide a very agreeable round of golf.
Contact: 031 539 5330. South of Umhlanga is the 5 883-metre
Durban Country Club Beachwood Golf Course, one of the area’s most
beautiful courses with its undulating fairways lined by tropical bush.
Contact: 031 564 4257.
E
xplore a world-class experience at one of the largest shopping and leisure
destinations in the southern hemisphere. Revel in entertainment with a
host of exciting options, including Snow Wonderland, Be.UP Park, Action
Karting, Electric Avenue and Mr Funtubbles, or dine at a restaurant outlet for every
taste. With over 450 stores, including local and international retailers, Gateway
Theatre of Shopping is your first stop to exploring the beautiful East Coast.
La Lucia Mall is a lovely suburban mall with a relaxed atmosphere and big
brand stores.
Cornubia Mall is less than 10 mins away from Umhlanga, Durban North and
La Lucia using the N2 interchange, ensuring unobstructed direct access. It boasts
over 100 stores and unlimited free parking, a 4DX Nu Metro cinema, three indoor
soccer fields and Durban’s first Bounce trampoline park.
An array of local arts and crafts is available from shops, markets and pavement
sellers in the area. Zulu crafters are especially adept in beadwork, weaving, clay
pots and wooden animal carvings. Many local crafts recycle used materials, such
as plastic bags, oil tins and beer cans, turning waste into art.
Gateway Theatre of Shopping – 031 514 0500 Oceans Mall – 031 561 1614
La Lucia Mall – 031 562 8420 Marine Walk – 031 007 0417
Cornubia Mall – 031 001 0160 The Crescent Shopping Centre – 031 566 2887
Pearls Mall – 031581 5100 Tongaat Mall – 032 945 8400
From November to March, every day at sunset, hundreds of thousands of tiny Barn Swallows (Hirundo
rustica) gather over the reedbeds at the Lake Victoria wetland, before diving down to roost for the night.
Witness this spectacular event at the Mount Moreland Lake Victoria viewing site. Bring a picnic and
sundowners and enjoy the expansive views and tranquil surroundings while you wait for the birds to
arrive.
The viewing site at Mount Moreland is open to visitors from 5pm - 7pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays,
in season, November to March.
At Crane & Feathers, we believe that the integration of South African hospitality and exquisite cuisine results in a unique and unforgettable
experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Our goal is to provide a space where guests can indulge in exceptional food while experiencing the warm and welcoming hospitality that
South Africa is known for. We understand that good food is only part of a great dining experience, which is why we've designed our space to
be a beautiful and relaxing haven where you can unwind and enjoy your time with us.
At Crane & Feathers, we embrace our commitment to providing an elegant and refined experience for every guest who walks through our
doors. Our team is dedicated to providing attentive service and creating an atmosphere that is both soft and enjoyable. We want every guest
to feel at home and leave with a sense of warmth and satisfaction.
Cyrils
BAR
Perfectly located to Sports stadiums and top Durban attractions. Nestled in the heart of Durban North, our hotel is a haven not just for travellers but also for our
local community. Indulge in the perfect blend of relaxation and luxury at our establishment! Join us for exquisite poolside dining, planning your next corporate
event or seeking a tranquil spa retreat, we have something special for everyone. Contact us today to reserve your spot for an unforgettable experience!
Flying Dress
Experience the thrill of a
lifetime with a Durban Flying
Dress photoshoot through our
incredible imagery.
BOOK NOW
SKILLS PROGRAM
www.sahi.co.za
Kitchen Assitant : Level 4
First Floor, LLB House, 15 Solstice
Waitron Skills : Level 4
Road, New Town, Umhlanga,, 4319
Barista Skills : Level 2
southernsun.com
Useful information Forest Manor Boutique Guest
House
Freshy Guest House
031 572 5400
0723043304
info@forestmanor.co.za
sikho88@yahoo.com
Name Tel Email Golf Course Boutique Guest 031 502 2132 info@gcbguesthouse.co.za
Guest Houses House
45 Broadway Lodge 031 564 1608 mail@45broadway.co.za Gumtree Lodge 031 539 1360 info@gumtree-lodge.co.za
Addis B&B 031 561 7302 stay@addisbedandbreakfast.co.za Hillside Guest house 082 657 7066 info@hillsidegh.co.za
African Oyster Guest House 031 561 2567 bookings@africanoyster.co.za Hilltop Manor 031 563 0276 hilltopmanor12@gmail.com
Afri-lala B&B 031 539 4011 bb@afri-lala.co.za Homeways B&B 031 572 4727 veronica@homeways.co.za
Allways B&B 031 563 9399 dewet.david@gmail.com HoneyPot B&B 031 561 3795 honeypot@iafrica.com
Anchors Rest Guest House 031 561 7380 enquiries@anchorsrest.co.za Jessica’s B&B 031 561 3369 jessicasbbkzn@gmail.com
Balmoral Guest House 031 563 3420 info@balmoralguesthouse.co.za Kingfisher Lodge 031 539 7799 ant@kingfisherlodge.co.za
Bayete B&B 068 234 8890 enquiries@bayeteselfcatering.durban Kingston Place Guest House 031 561 3680 info@kingstonplace.co.za
Bella Vista Guest House 083 703 5750 jbellavista11@gmail.com Kites View B&B 031 562 1672 info@kitesview.co.za
Bentley on the Beach 031 562 7500 info@beachfront.org.za La Loggia B&B Herwood 031 561 2411 laloggiab@gmail.com
Boma Lodge 031 563 9629 bookings@bomalodge.com Lavender Moon Guest House 083 253 0072 info@lavendermoon.durban
Burnham House B&B 031 572 3062 burnhamhouse@edsl.co.za Linsy Paradise 031 561 1401 masemem@vodamail.co.za
Carpe Diem 031 568 2300 drgmeyer@lantic.net Maison H Guest House 031 837 4627 info@maisonh.co.za
Casa Playa 3 076 733 6453 info@casaplaya3.co.za Maryland Guest House 083 450 1044 lucy@themaryland.co.za
Caza Beach Guest House 031 562 8235 info@cazabeach.co.za Mei Pen Lei 031 568 2415 rory@meipenlai.com
Centre Court B&B 031 573 2484 stay@durbanguesthouse.co.za Ocean Vista Guest House 031 572 3089 oceanvistaguesthouse@gmail.com
Chartwell Guest House 031 572 4380 info@88chartwell.co.za Old Mill Guest House 031 563 9296 oldmill@northdurban.com
Clinch Self Catering 083 625 7546 lgstewart@icon.co.za On the Beach 031 562 1591 onthebeach@telkomsa.net
Collards B&B 031 563 2130 stay@collards.co.za Palm Springs B&B 031 572 5855 winnie_jih@hotmail.com
Cowrie Cove G.H 031 572 6171 cowrie1@iafrica.com Paul’s Guest House 031 561 6088 nerend@tiscali.co.za
Crooked Tree Cottage 084 824 7684 info@crookedtreecottage.co.za Phoever B&B 083 4436911 bookings@phoeverbedandbreakfast.co.za
Destinations Guest House 031 564 9002 destinations@absamail.co.za PJ Bronkhorst 083 441 3929 vibronkhorst@gmail.com
Die Strandhuis 083 412 1513 strandhuis@telkomsa.net Qalakahle Lodge 031 565 1935 qalakahle@yahoo.com
Dolphin Coast B&B 031 572 3379 thresa@dolphincoastbnb.co.za Rostalyn Guest House 031 561 6512 info@rostalyn.co.za
Eden Rose Manor B&B 032 941 5802 richard@edenrose.co.za Sanchia Guest House 031 572 5742 info@sanchia.co.za
Executive Cove B&B 082 413 7230 execucove@3i.co.za Sandals B&B 031 561 3973 info@sandalsumhlanga.co.za
Fairlight Beach House 031 568 1835 enquiries@fairlight.co.za Seaview Manor Guest House 031 561 0799 eflinner@gmail.com
Fairview B&B 031 561 6988 phiwe.mhl@gmail.com Spindrift B&B 031 568 1861 spindrift@mweb.co.za
Fairway Guest House 031 563 7102 reservation@fairwaydurban.co.za Tesorino B&B 031 561 2719 info@tesorino.co.za
Five Burnham B&B 031 572 3019 mail@fiveburnham.co.za The Grange Guest House 031 563 6826 info@thegrange.com
NOTES
www.visitdurban.travel
@DBNtourism