About South Beach

South Beach, Durban

South Beach, as its name suggests, lies to the south of central Durban, midway between North Beach and Ushaka Marine World on the beach front of the city. South Beach's access to Durban's Harbour is good, all that separates the two is a railway line and Quayside Road.

Did you know? Once you've booked your hotels or accommodation in Durban, explore the destination pages for info on attractions, activities and things to do when you visit South Beach in Durban.

The city's harbour is one of very few natural harbours between Port Elizabeth and Maputo. The other reason that it is so busy is that it lies at the start of a weather phenomenon known to produce particularly violent seas.

South Beach lies close to Addington Hospital, and to Durban's trendy Point area - now a revived development of waterways, upmarket apartments, shops and office space. There is even a small craft harbour at Vetch's Pier that took four years to pass because of opposition from local boating clubs. The waterways are now in use by boats and gondalas, bringing to mind, particularly at night, an element of Venice. It's a change from the Point of yesteryear.

Point Yacht Club still hosts a number of races and regattas throughout the year from the sea side and the beach is a wonderful one at which to swim, being partial to swells and less tempestuous weather during summer.

Getting to Ushaka Marine World from South Beach is as simple as a drive along OR Tambo Parade (the old Esplanade) and across South Beach Avenue. This is Africa's largest marine theme park and worth at least a day of excitement, particularly if you have children.

From South Beach too, you can take a cruise on the harbour, explore the Point Waterfront, stroll the Yacht Mole, eat at a number of choice restaurants, or visit Durban's Millenium Tower on the Bluff headland.