Umhlanga Central, Umhlanga

Umhlanga means place of reeds in the Zulu language, so Umhlanga rocks roughly translates to "place of reeds and rocks". A visit to the Umhlanga beach or our lagoon Nature reserve will show you why this name is appropriate.              

Umhlanga is the most popular beach resort holiday destination on the east coast of South Africa. There are close to 300 days of sunshine a year, and the water is warm enough to swim throughout summer and winter. Umhlanga Rocks is perched on the edge of the Indian Ocean and its beaches offer excellent swimming and surfing. The 2.7 km O' Connor promenade was recently upgraded and runs from Durban View Park to Umhlanga Lagoon nature reserve. The Promenade is a favorite for walkers and runners and it is dotted with restaurants and take aways.    

Despite Umhlanga's growth boom in the last twenty years, it is still home to some pristine natural areas, where the Promenade ends the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature reserve begins. Enjoy the beauty of the forest, the thrill of crossing the lagoon on wooden bridges and a leisurely stroll along the beach back to the breakers resort. As you go you will learn about the cultures of our people and the value of indigenous vegetation.         

For the more adventurous take a trip to our shark's board or take an early morning boat trip to see the shark nets being cleared off Durban's Golden Mile, Schools of Dolphin passing by, as well as seabirds and an occasional whale, a unique family adventure.            

From pavement sellers and local crafts to boutique shopping and malls where everything is on offer, Gateway Theatre of shopping is the biggest mall in the southern hemisphere, and over two million people visit it every month, thanks to a wide range of shops, restaurants for every taste and fun activities, such as a climbing rock, skate park, funfair & cinemas. We also have the new King Shaka Airport on our doorstep. This new airport can handle the largest aircraft in existence today. It is no surprise why people flock here in such large numbers. Long stretches of beaches lined with a rich cultural history. Mix all of this with excellent restaurants, well priced accommodation, world class shopping and there is something for everyone in Umhlanga, in fact, there is so much to do that you are bound to return at first opportunity.