Hotels in Durban

Durban: Where Sun-Kissed Shores Meet Cultural Treasures

Durban, nestled along South Africa's eastern coast, is a vibrant fusion of sun-soaked beaches, rich culture, and lush landscapes. Its iconic beachfront, including the bustling Golden Mile, invites relaxation and adventure, while the Umhlanga Rocks area offers upscale dining and luxurious escapes. Explore the tranquil Durban Botanic Gardens or immerse yourself in history at local museums. For thrill-seekers, the uShaka Marine World theme park promises aquatic fun. With a warm climate and diverse experiences, Durban is a perfect getaway for beach lovers, culture enthusiasts, and families alike, making it a must-visit destination in KwaZulu-Natal. For our best hotel rates in Durban and to enhance your stay, 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, South Beach and North Beach. Durban Beachfront, South Beach, and North Beach are fantastic for travellers due to their stunning coastlines, vibrant atmosphere, and easy access to local attractions. Accommodations vary from luxury hotels with ocean views to more budget-friendly options, many offering breakfast packages. For first-time visitors, Durban Beachfront is ideal, as it provides a central location and a lively atmosphere, perfect for exploring the city and enjoying the beautiful beaches. Here are some of the best hotels in Durban that our travelers love:

1. Durban BeachfrontOpens in a new window: Known for its stunning sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere, Durban Beachfront is an ideal destination for beach lovers and families alike. It offers direct access to the beach as well as proximity to the Durban International Convention Centre for business travellers. For accommodation, consider Belaire SuitesOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel perfect for those seeking adventure and business amenities with multiple meeting rooms and various water sports activities nearby. Another option is Suncoast Hotel & TowersOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel that caters to families and business travellers, featuring a business centre and childcare services. Lastly, The Balmoral HotelOpens in a new window, also a 4-star hotel, provides adventure sports and comprehensive business services, ensuring a well-rounded stay.
2. South BeachOpens in a new window: This family-friendly area boasts a vibrant atmosphere with close proximity to cultural attractions like Durban City Hall and the Harbour. South Beach offers various recreational activities, making it a fun choice for travellers. Consider Bayside Hotel Pine StreetOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that provides entertainment options and nearby sports activities. There's also Curiocity Durban - HostelOpens in a new window, a 4-star hostel that caters to those looking for a social experience while offering dining options and nearby attractions. Lastly, Durban Manor Hotel & Conference CentreOpens in a new window, another 3.5-star property, serves delicious breakfast options and is conveniently located within 1.6km from South Beach.
3. North BeachOpens in a new window: Ideal for family vacations, North Beach is known for its scenic views and vibrant beach culture. It is also close to important business venues like the Durban International Convention Centre. For accommodation, City Lodge Hotel DurbanOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel, is suitable for business travellers seeking essential services. Alternatively, Hilton DurbanOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel, provides a range of adventure sports and family-friendly amenities. Finally, ONOMO Hotel DurbanOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, offers various business facilities, making it a solid choice for professionals visiting the area.

Things to do in Durban for first times

Durban offers an enticing blend of sun-kissed beaches, lush parks, and scenic mountains, perfect for a three-day getaway. Visitors can enjoy thrilling activities like boating, sea diving, and hiking, alongside vibrant festivals and an exciting casino scene, making it a captivating destination for all types of travellers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Durban:

• Day 1: Start your Durban adventure at Battery Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful ocean views. After relaxing by the shore, take a leisurely stroll along the Durban Beach promenade, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and maybe grabbing a bite from a local vendor. Later, head to Florida Road, known for its trendy cafes and restaurants, perfect for dining and people-watching in the evening ambiance.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at the Golden Mile, a stunning stretch of beachfront ideal for a morning walk or jog. Then, visit the St James Anglican Church, famous for its unique architecture and serene setting. Afterward, immerse yourself in local culture at the African Art Centre, where you can view and purchase authentic crafts and artworks created by talented local artists. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the rich artistic heritage of the region.
• Day 3: Your day commences at the Durban Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing a wide variety of indigenous and exotic plants. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. After appreciating nature, head to the Harbour to witness the bustling maritime activity, perfect for some picturesque views. Conclude your day at Blue Lagoon, where you can relax by the water and perhaps indulge in a picnic while watching the sunset over the ocean.

4 tips to find a great Durban hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Durban is during February, October, and November, when hotel rates are at their lowest. International travellers should aim to book flights at least three months in advance for better deals, while domestic travellers should try to secure their tickets at least two months ahead to save money. To truly experience the city, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended, allowing you to discover its beautiful beaches, vibrant sea, and captivating museums—all offering great value for money. This makes Durban a fantastic option for those looking to explore on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Durban, there's plenty of opportunity to save on accommodations. To explore discounted rates, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find budget-friendly options close to your departure date. Don't forget to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, maximizing your chances of snagging a great deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Durban.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres may offer convenience but usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the places you intend to visit.

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 is usually the wettest month. January, September, and December are the peak travel months in Durban, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, August, and October tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.