Durban is an extremely popular holiday destination. Over the 2017 New Year’s weekend, a whopping 800 000 people visited the city’s beaches.
Not a fan of a crowd? Take a short drive from the city centre to these close-by beaches:
Umdloti Beach
Umdloti Beach is well known for being one of Durban’s quieter beaches. There is a lagoon-type swimming area that is perfect for snorkelling. There are also rougher waves, offering a great opportunity to show off your surfing skills.
Distance from Durban: 26km
Amanzimtoti
Amanzimtoti Beach, affectionately called “Toti” by locals, is another picture-perfect, beach-lovers’ haven. The seafront is well developed with numerous hotels, restaurants and even a water park if you tire of the salty ocean.
Distance from Durban: 24km
Ansteys Beach
Ansteys Beach is a perfect alternative to the busy Durban seaboard, being only a short 13km drive away. With shark nets, life guards and shallow waters, Ansteys is ideal for a family outing.
Distance from Durban: 13km
Isipingo Beach
Isipingo Beach is a hidden Durban gem. A rocky beach known for its tidal pools, this stretch is mostly frequented by fishermen. Enjoy the panoramic view of the ocean, while the kids are mesmerised by the tiny ocean creatures in the tidal pools.
Distance from Durban: 21km
Umhlanga Beach
Although Umhlanga can become quite busy, it’s definitely worth a visit. It’s home to a beautiful beach, but also to quite a few attractions. Visit the Umhlanga Pier, which cable news channel CNN has dubbed one of the “world’s most beautiful piers” with its whale-bone structure edging into the ocean. Don’t forget to walk along the promenade to visit the iconic red-and-white lighthouse.
Distance from Durban: 16km
Addington Beach
Located close by the Durban Harbour, the waters at Addington Beach are calm and ideal for families who want to spend the whole day in the ocean. With its relatively small waves, the beach is also a perfect spot to learn to surf, especially under the watchful eye of lifeguards.
Distance from Durban: 3km