Umhlanga Rocks – The new heart of KZN

Less than 20km north of Durban City Centre lies Umhlanga Rocks. An upmarket area, Umhlanga Rocks has been the hottest holiday destination on Durban’s North Coast for many years. From humble beginnings as a small town, Umhlanga has grown in popularity (both with locals and holidaymakers) and is now not only one of the top travel destinations in South Africa, receiving thousands of holiday makers every year, but also Durban’s new city centre. 

The development of the Gateway shopping centre, once the largest shopping centre in the Southern Hemisphere, just over 10 years ago put Umhlanga firmly on the map and spearheaded the transformation from small holiday town into central business hub. More and more businesses would move away from Durban centre in search of a better environment and Umhlanga Ridge became the natural choice. This in turn attracted more people to the area and soon the Ridge was booming with offices and apartments.

This growth has certainly changed the complexion of the once small town, but has done nothing to deter its loyal holidaymakers, and why should it? The expansion of the town has been executed perfectly, positioning the business centre in close proximity to the old village, but not entering into it. Holiday makers are thus afforded the tranquillity (if you can call beaches and streets bursting with sunburnt people tranquil) of the Umhlanga village, while being just a stone’s throw away from a thriving metropolis. The choice to venture into the hub of activity that is Umhlanga Ridge remains with the individual, which is fortunate indeed. 

While Umhlanga is not the prettiest or most serene holiday destination along Durban’s North Coast (see my articles on Umdloti & Glenashley), it does cater for a different market. The Umhlanga beachfront is jam-packed with skyscraper hotels and this is synechdochic of the town in the holiday season - everything is packed, everywhere you look there are people. Umhlanga is definitely the place to see or be seen. It is very busy and has a distinct energy about it. It offers plenty of choice in both activity, dining or partying. It is much more suited to an active holidayer. It is therefore no surprise that this town is the mecca of Matric holidays, where students come to celebrate the end of their tenure at school.

What to do in Umhlanga

Umhlanga has no shortage of activities. The beach is always a good start, and offers good swimming areas as well as decent surfing conditions. Take a walk along the promenade and drink in the sights and sounds of Umhlanga beach front, There are also ample shops and restaurants in which to grab a bite or sit and watch the waves.

Chartwell drive, the Umhlanga village main strip, also has ample restaurants and pubs to pass the hot lunch time hours in.

On rainy days most people flock to the Gateway shopping centre, to meander around or hit the movies. The centre also houses a virgin active gym, climbing wall, skate park and standing wave for surfing and is well worth a visit.

Umhlanga Nightlife

This is where Umhlanga really begins to differentiate itself from its smaller neighbours. With a huge selection of restaurants scattered around Umhlanga Rocks and Umhlanga Ridge, visitors are spoilt for choice, just remember to book in season as the best restaurants are often full.

Chartwell drive is usually busy from the afternoon and with a good few hot spots in close proximity it is a wonderful place to have a party. Simply pub hop in the safe and friendly environment. The party usually focuses around the George, an old school pub in the centre of Chartwell drive. Umhlanga is also home to a nightclub XS.

For the more serious party animals, Umhlanga is close enough to venture into Durban’s town centre, which is still the home of many of the region’s best clubs. Remember to have a designated driver or to have arranged one, as South Africa (and KZN especially) is very strict on drinking and driving. Here is more info on designated driver services in South Africa.

Umhlanga Accommodation

Umhlanga offers every kind of accommodation under the sun. From major hotel chains to small guesthouses, you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for. Being a popular holiday destination though, you are likely to pay a premium for this accommodation, especially in season. For reviews on places I have stayed within Umhlanga visit my page: Umhlanga Accommodation

Posted in: Africa, Beaches, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, Umhlanga, Umhlanga Rocks