The east coast is our very own tropical paradise with warm waters and laid-back vibes. Whether you like surfing, snorkelling, swimming or lounging by a pool, or watching dolphins play in the waves while sipping on cocktails, Durbs will sort you out. Take a look at these exquisite stays on the sapphire coast for your next vacation.
1. Dolphin Guest House
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This cosy apartment is only 8km from King Shaka International Airport. The apartment is the perfect family house for a relaxed beach holiday. The property includes novel facilities like a pizza oven, outdoor pool and a private beach area, large braai patio and garden. It’s also close to the area’s most popular attractions like Umdloti Tidal Pool, Umhlanga Main Beach, Chaka’s Rock Tidal Pool and Ballito Main Beach.
Rates: From R892 per night
Make a booking here.
2. Bluff Eco Park
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If you’re a camp-lover, this eco park will be just the breakaway you need. The tranquil and peaceful environment includes over 75 species of birds, banded mongoose and vervet monkeys. The park sports cabins as well as camping sites, so the choice is yours. The entertainment area boasts a pool table, dart board, DSTV and old school board games for family nights.The park also has restaurants, a coffee shop, health spa, conference facilities and a wedding chapel. They are situated close to fantastic surfing and sea-bathing facilities at Anstey’s and Brighton beach, and also offer an 18 hole golf course at Bluff National Park, paintball field, tennis and bowling facilities.
Rates: Camping from R90 per night
Make a booking here.
3. Sugar Beach Apartments
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These fresh-looking, modern apartments will have you de-stressed in no time. All units are situated right on the beach, so you can sit on your deck and watch the dolphins surf by in the early mornings. Facilities include braais and a swimming pool, as well as secure parking within the property and security guards at the entrances. Being only 8km away from Gateway centre, you won’t have to go far to get your shopping done.
Rates: From R2,200 per night
Make a booking here.
4. Garvies Surf House
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Think perfect rolling waves and pristine sandy beaches where you can wander for hours in either direction and only meet the occasional fisherman following in his family’s age-old tradition. Garvies is a safe beach and always quiet due to its difficult access and the lack of parking, though from the 4 bedroom Surf House, it’s just a short walk down to the beach. But the ideal spot is the deck: sitting out here in the sun – or under the evening stars – you can enjoy a 180-degree sea view, often with the good fortune of watching dolphins and whales in the water below. With features that include a splash pool and both an inside and outside patio, this double-storey holiday home sleeps 8 and is the perfect choice for a getaway in balmy Durban weather.
Rates: From R2,950 per night
Make a booking here.
5. Idwala Tides
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This stunning third floor apartment sits right on Umdloti’s famous main beach with amazing 180 degree sea views. The apartment sleeps 4, has uncapped wifi, an outdoor pool and braai facilities. Close to loads of popular restaurants, shopping malls and Ushaka Marine World, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cosy family vacation right in paradise!
Rates: From R1,050 per night.
Make a booking here.
6. The Bond Square
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These beautiful self-catering apartments are luxury and comfort all rolled into one. Situated north of the Durban harbour and bluff, in between Bay of Plenty and Dairy Beach on Durban’s Golden Mile, you’ll have ocean views all around. North Beach is the perfect spot for surfing, body boarding, paddle ski, skateboarding, swimming and sun bathing. This is the ultimate spot to kick back and relax!
Rates: From R3,238 per night
Make a booking here.
7. Boulder Bay
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Right on the beachfront, this property has 3 bedrooms and features an extra large outdoor swimming pool plus a kiddies pool, a garden and a terrace. For the adventurous, Ndlondlo Reptile Park is only 9 km away, and Crocodile Creek is 17 km away. There is also a braai facility, 24 hour security and cleaning services. Look no further for a fun-filled family vacation!
Rates: From R1,600 per night
Make a booking here.
Image: Afristay
