Durban Hotels

Top reasons to visit Durban

• Stunning Beaches: Durban boasts beautiful beaches with soft sand and warm waters, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
• Vibrant Cultural Scene: Experience the city's rich culture through its historic sites, local markets, and traditional ceremonies.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy thrilling days at water parks and family-oriented activities suitable for all ages.
• Durban Botanic Gardens: Explore the serene gardens, home to a diverse range of plant species and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Luxurious Accommodation: Choose from a variety of stays, from beachfront resorts to charming guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Find great hotels in Durban

Discover a diverse array of hotel accommodations in Durban, offering something for every traveller. Whether you seek a luxurious stay at the Hilton Durban or a charming guesthouse for a family vacation, the city boasts options that cater to business needs and leisure alike. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere while experiencing top-notch services and facilities designed to make your stay memorable.

• The Edward Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Durban, The Edward Hotel is a charming 4-star establishment ideal for adventurous spirits seeking a beach getaway. With direct access to the stunning coastline, guests can indulge in a variety of exciting activities, including windsurfing and snorkeling. The hotel offers a range of adventure sports options, perfect for those keen to explore the great outdoors. The welcoming atmosphere and comfortable accommodations ensure a delightful stay for those looking to experience the vibrant beach culture of Durban.
• First Group The Palace All-Suite: This inviting 3-star hotel boasts a family-friendly environment, making it an excellent choice for those travelling with children. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, First Group The Palace All-Suite features direct beach access and amenities catered specifically for younger guests, such as a children's pool and babysitting services. Families can relax knowing that both comfort and convenience are prioritised, allowing for a memorable and enjoyable beach holiday in Durban.
• The Balmoral Hotel: The Balmoral Hotel combines elegance with a fun-filled family atmosphere, making it a 4-star option that appeals to both adventure seekers and families alike. Guests can easily access the beach and take part in thrilling activities such as skydiving and bicycle rentals nearby. The hotel also prioritises family needs, offering supervised childcare and babysitting services for a worry-free experience. With its blend of recreational opportunities and family amenities, The Balmoral Hotel is a wonderful choice for your Durban stay.

Where to stay in and around Durban

Durban, a vibrant city in KwaZulu-Natal, offers an array of experiences for every type of traveller. From the luxury of Umhlanga's beachfront accommodation to the cultural richness found within Durban itself, visitors can immerse themselves in a friendly, relaxing atmosphere. Explore trendy neighbourhoods and enjoy family-friendly attractions, all while soaking up the holiday feel that makes Durban a perfect getaway destination.

• Durban Beachfront: Nestled along the coastline of Durban, the Durban Beachfront is a vibrant neighbourhood renowned for its bustling atmosphere and family-friendly offerings. It attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel periods in March and December to January. The beachfront is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in thrilling water park attractions. Nearby, you'll find a range of shopping options and entertainment venues, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. The local highlights include the sandy beach, a family-friendly beach area, and the popular theme park, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.
• North Beach: Situated adjacent to Durban Beachfront, North Beach is another lively neighbourhood that offers a mix of family, city, and business experiences. With a consistent influx of visitors throughout the year, this area also sees a spike in numbers during March and December to January. North Beach is known for its beautiful beach and convenient access to shopping centres and recreational areas. Additionally, it is home to a convention centre and various event venues, making it a hub for both leisure and professional activities. This neighbourhood provides a perfect blend of relaxation and urban life, catering to diverse traveller interests.
• Durban North: Located approximately 8.0km from the heart of Durban, Durban North is a charming city that offers a more suburban feel while still being close to the beach. Visitors flock here during January, July, and September, enjoying its family-friendly attractions and entertainment options. The area features a delightful mix of shopping areas, a water park, and even a golf course for those looking to unwind. With its proximity to beautiful beaches and parks, Durban North is a great choice for families and individuals seeking a relaxed atmosphere while still having access to the amenities of the city.

Things to do in Durban

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience, visit the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, where you'll find a mix of local and international brands. If you're up for a drive, explore the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Westville for a diverse selection of shops and eateries to enjoy.

Recreation

The Mangwanani Spa at the Hilton Durban offers a unique African wellness experience, featuring traditional treatments and rituals. Enjoy massages, body scrubs, and relaxation in a tranquil setting, perfect for rejuvenation. Nearby, the Durban beachfront provides opportunities for sunbathing, walking, or enjoying water sports along the stunning coast.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of surfing at Durban's famous beaches, where waves cater to all skill levels. Alternatively, embark on a thrilling shark cage diving adventure in Umhlanga, encountering these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Nightlife

In Durban, the vibrant nightlife scene comes alive at venues like the trendy 8th Avenue, offering live music and cocktails, while The Piano Bar provides a more relaxed atmosphere with piano performances. For a lively clubbing experience, check out Cubana, known for its energetic vibe and diverse crowd.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Durban

Durban is budget-friendly for tourists, offering free attractions like the Golden Mile and Blue Lagoon. For public transport, consider using minibus taxis or buses to save on travel costs. The best time to visit is from February to November when prices are lower, especially on Saturdays. Avoid Sundays for accommodation, as rates peak. Use Expedia to find eco-certified hotels and arrange your bookings together for better deals. By filtering for the lowest prices, you can easily uncover affordable options for your stay in Durban.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Durban are February and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Durban is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Durban is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you favour. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Durban with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Durban

Durban offers a delightful blend of family-friendly and entertainment-themed attractions, making it an ideal holiday destination. Visitors can explore its beautiful beaches, vibrant streets, and historic churches. Key points of interest include the picturesque Durban beach, the serene Durban Botanic Gardens, and the bustling Durban Harbour, all catering to those seeking cultural experiences and a beach getaway. Whether you're strolling along the coast or enjoying local culture, Durban promises a memorable vacation.

• Golden Mile: This vibrant stretch of beach is the heart of Durban’s coastal allure, offering golden sands and a lively atmosphere. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports, it’s a hub for both locals and tourists seeking a quintessential beach experience.
• Blue Lagoon: Nestled alongside the Umgeni River, Blue Lagoon boasts stunning natural scenery and a tranquil environment. It’s an excellent spot for picnics, birdwatching, and enjoying outdoor activities while taking in picturesque views of the water and surrounding greenery.
• Florida Road: This bustling street is famous for its eclectic mix of restaurants, cafés, and shops, reflecting the vibrant urban culture of Durban. Strolling along Florida Road allows visitors to soak up the lively city vibes and discover local art and entertainment.

Best time to go to Durban

The best time to visit Durban is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
February	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	69.3°F (20.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
September	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Durban

Flying into Durban is convenient via King Shaka International Airport (DUR), situated 29.0km from the city. Notable hotels near the airport include The Capital Zimbali, a 4-star hotel located 9.7km away, and 34 on Milkwood, a charming 4-star bed & breakfast 11.3km from the airport, both offering airport transportation services. For those considering Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB), located 64.4km away, Lincoln Cottages, a 4-star guesthouse, is just 4.8km from the airport. Margate Airport (MGH), 128.7km from Durban, offers nearby options such as San Lameer Villa Rentals, a 4-star hotel 9.7km away, providing essential airport transportation services as well.