16 Best Things to Do in Umhlanga

Umhlanga is a South African town positioned on the country’s spectacular eastern coastline. The name comes from the Zulu language and means ‘place of the reeds’ — this relates to the reeds on Ohlange River’s banks just north of the town.

This often-overlooked destination offers plenty of fun things for tourists to do. Pristine white beaches give way to the glistening Indian Ocean, making it the perfect place to swim and relax on hot summer days.

There’s plenty of shopping and dining to be enjoyed, and lovers of the great outdoors will appreciate the various parks and reserves waiting to be explored. Umhlanga’s convenient location also means that it’s perfectly positioned for side trips to some of South Africa’s most loved cities, like Johannesburg and Durban.

If you’re planning a visit to this coastal gem, you’ll want to bookmark this post. Here are the 16 best things to do in Umhlanga.

1. Explore Umhlanga’s Beautiful Beaches

Umhlanga is perched on the glittering Indian Ocean and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Whether you like to surf, swim, or sunbathe, you’ll find plenty to see and do at these top South African beaches:

Umhlanga Beach

Umhlanga Main Beach has been awarded a blue flag, which means it is extremely clean and safe. Lifeguards are on duty to keep watch over swimmers and surfers, and umbrella and chair rentals are available for sunbathers.

Ballito

This tranquil area is 18 miles north of Umhlanga and is known for its stunning ocean views. There are a few pretty beaches to choose from here, but Willard Beach is the most popular. Shark nets and lifeguards ensure visitors stay safe.

This region is also known as The Dolphin Coast because it’s possible to see bottlenose dolphins from the shore, so keep an eye out during your visit.

La Lucia Beach

This Durban beach is easily reachable from Umhlanga and has more of a rural feel. It’s the best place to go for peace and quiet, and the coral reefs make it an exciting spot to snorkel and scuba dive.

Umdloti Beach

This relaxed section of coastline lies north of Umhlanga and is a good pick for a family day out. Children will love Umdloti, which is perfect for exploring the rock pools. There are plenty of bars and restaurants around for post-swim snacks.

2. Climb Umhlanga Lighthouse

Umhlanga Lighthouse is an impressive 21-meter beachfront structure dating back to 1954 and is a fascinating site to explore. Built to replace the previous lighthouse that was commissioned in 1869, it guards some of the most South African volatile waters and helps safely guide vessels into Durban’s harbor.

Fun fact: This lighthouse has never had a keeper and the Oyster Box Hotel is the official warden where the lighthouse controls are.

3. Take a Day Trip to Durban City

Durban is the largest city in the province of KwaZulu-Natal and makes a fantastic day trip from Umhlanga. The seafront promenade was refurbished for the 2010 World Cup and is home to lots of interesting things to do.

Here’s what not to miss on a sightseeing day tour of Durban:

• uShaka Marine World – zip along waterslides, splash around in pools, and tackle a shark dive all in one place.
• Durban Botanical Gardens – Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden. Major collections include palms, orchids, and cycads.
• PheZulu Safari Park – take a safari game drive to meet African giants in their natural habitat.

4. Explore Umhlanga Ridge

Umhlanga Ridge is a popular place to stay because it’s a centrally located base to explore from. The New Town development is at the heart of Umhlanga Ridge and is conveniently positioned next to the Gateway shopping complex. The views from here are also some of the best in town so try to visit at sunset for amazing Indian Ocean vistas.

5. Hit the Links

South Africa is famous for its array of superb golf courses, and many of the best are within easy reach of Umhlanga. If you’re planning on hitting a few balls during your stay, here’s where to do it:

• Beachwood Golf Club – this coastal course boasts ten holes and a challenging layout set against a spectacular backdrop.
• Mount Edgecombe Lodge – home to two 18-hole champion golf courses and an elegant B&B.
• Durban Country Club – a championship golf course with scenic greens. This course has been home to the Waterman Cup for over 100 years.

6. Test Your Detective Skills

For an exciting challenge, pay a visit to Mindgame Escape. This exhilarating escape room in Granada Square on Chartwell Drive offers a variety of themed escape rooms — head back in time to join a secret society in the 1800s, uncover your inner explorer among Mayan ruins, or solve the mystery of a UFO spotted over Umhlanga.

7. Take a KZN Sharks Board Boat Ride

KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board works to keep swimmers safe along the KZN coastline while also protecting the environment. Visitors with an interest in this important conservation work can join the team on their early morning boat trips to service their shark safety gear. Trips take place Monday to Friday and depart from the harbor at 6.30 am. Booking is essential.

8. Visit Cape Town

Cape Town is South Africa’s oldest city and the parliamentary seat of the country. This vibrant, historic city has plenty to offer tourists and makes a great side trip if you have time to spare in your itinerary.

Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s unique history, vibrant culinary scene, or iconic natural landscape, here are some of our favorite ways to spend a day or two in Cape Town:

• Robben Island – this former prison island served as the country’s maximum security facility and is where Nelson Mandela was held. It’s now a designated World Heritage Site.
• Table Mountain – this flat-topped mountain can be summited by hiking or taking the cable car.
• V&A Waterfront – the oldest working harbor in the Southern Hemisphere now offers a huge range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

9. Place a Bet with Lady Luck

Sibaya Casino is located between Umhlanga and Umdloti and makes an exciting entertainment destination for those who enjoy a flutter on the roulette wheel. There’s a great range of tabletop and machine games to choose from depending on your tastes.

Sibaya also offers a superb range of dining options and a fun-packed calendar of events and entertainment. Accommodation is available too, making this a great option for an action-packed weekend getaway.

10. Indulge in some Retail Therapy

Gateway Theatre of Shopping is a popular shopping mall near the Prestondale neighborhood. There are more than 380 stores to splash the cash at, plus regular entertainment and a superb range of cafes and restaurants.

Here’s what to buy, eat, and do at Gateway:

• American Swiss – diamonds, gold, and silver make a glamorous souvenir or a generous gift for folks back home.
• Cape Town Fish Market – enjoy fresh and delicious seafood and sushi dishes at this family-owned restaurant.
• Electric Avenue – you’ll find bowling, dodgems, and arcade games at this family-friendly entertainment spot.

11. Discover Johannesburg

Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and home to some of the country’s most fascinating tourist attractions. It’s a six-hour drive from Umhlanga and makes an ideal two-day sightseeing trip. Here’s what to add to your Jo’burg itinerary:

• Apartheid Museum – learn about the rise and fall of apartheid and the struggle for liberation in South Africa.
• Cradle of Humankind – discover fossils of some of the earliest life forms that date back 200 million years.
• Mandela’s House – see where Nelson and Winnie Mandela lived and learn about the historical moments that happened here.

12. Explore the Hawaan Forest

This unique 65-hectare woodland is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna. The unique coastal dune forest dates back 18,000 years and is said to be the last of its kind in the world. The area isn’t open to the public but walks along the designated pathways can be arranged by tour operators in the resort town of Umhlanga Rocks.

13. Spot the Big Five at Hluhluwe Imfolozi

This big five game park is the oldest reserve in Africa and offers 96,000 hectares to explore. There are several ways to discover Africa’s most impressive giants, including:

• Full-day safari – see as much of the game reserve as possible on a full-day jeep adventure.
• Bush & boat safari – combine a half-day jeep safari with a two-hour hippo boat cruise.
• Half-day safari – a great option for visitors who are short on time but still want to see the big five.

14. Go Bird Spotting in Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve

Birdwatchers won’t want to miss this peaceful nature reserve that more than 208 bird species call home. Join the regular guided walks along the nature trail to spot herons, robins, and tinker barbets while learning about the various tree species and mammals that make this diverse place so interesting.

15. Stroll Along Whalebone Pier

The Whalebone Pier is located on the scenic 1.5-mile O’Connor Promenade which is a popular place for cycling, skating, and jogging. The 80-meter pier has been voted the most beautiful in the world and its ribcage-like structure is said to resemble whalebones or a boat’s hull. Head here during the cooler early morning hours for a picturesque start to the day.

16. Dine at the Best Eateries in Umhlanga Village

Umhlanga Village is the area of town with the highest concentration of exciting dining options, so it shouldn’t be missed by visiting foodies. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, traditional South African barbeque, or light lunchtime bites, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite.

Here are three of our top picks:

• Butcher Boys – the best place in Umhlanga for homemade biltong, prime steaks, and spare ribs.
• The Chef’s Table – a high-end dining experience offering fresh market fish and tasty vegetarian options.
• Mary & Joe – head here for fresh pastries, sandwiches, and desserts in an Instagrammable setting.

Tick off the Exciting Things to Do in Our Umhlanga Travel Guide

Umhlanga is a hidden gem on South Africa’s east coast, and many visitors make the mistake of skipping it in favor of better-known cities. However, as you can see, there’s so much to do in this safe and beautiful town that you’ll be very glad that you came. What will you do here first?