Umhlanga is a picturesque resort town on the east coast of South Africa, about 10 miles (17 kilometers) north of Durban, the urban center of the KwaZulu-Natal province. Umhlanga dates all the way back to the late 19th century and today, it’s an affluent community with a coastline that some consider as the best in South Africa. While you’re here, don’t forget to visit the iconic Lighthouse at Umhlanga Rocks, explore Hawaan Forest and Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve, make the drive to iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and of course, stay in any one of these best beachfront hotels in Umhlanga, South Africa.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and location with easy access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 15, 2026.
1. The Oyster Box (from USD 488)
If you want to go all out in Umhlanga, come and stay at The Oyster Box. This five-star luxury hotel is instantly recognizable with its romantic Colonial-style architecture, about 328 feet (100 meters) from Umhlanga Beach and 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) away from Bronze Beach. The Oyster Box is a heritage hotel with only 89 well-appointed guest rooms and suites. There are several dining options in the hotel, plus an award-winning spa with a hammam.
The Oyster Box This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks
224 meters (0.2 ft) from Whalebone Pier
2. Beverly Hills (from USD 240)
Beverly Hills Hotel is a mere 98 feet (30 meters) away from Umhlanga Beach. You won’t break a sweat to get to the ocean. Enviable location aside, this property is one of the most recognized hotels in Umhlanga. There is a restaurant on-site, a full-service spa and fitness center, and a total of 89 guest rooms and suites with private balconies so you can make the most out of their beachfront location. If you’re after the best sea views, book one of the two presidential suites.
Beverly Hills
Address: 54 Lighthouse Road
141 meters (463.3 ft) from Whalebone Pier
3. The Capital Pearls Hotel (from USD 101)
Located steps away from the iconic Lighthouse of Umhlanga, The Capital Pearls is perfect for both business and leisure. The hotel has an array of first-rate guest rooms and suites that range from studio to three-bedroom accommodations. Get a massage at the on-site spa, soak in the swimming pool, and shop until you drop at The Pearls Mall. Umhlanga Beach is also a two-minute walk away.
The Capital Pearls Hotel This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 6 Lagoon Drive
230 meters (0.2 ft) from Whalebone Pier
Other beachfront accommodations
4. Spacious waterfront vacation home
The beach life is what you’ll get at this spectacular waterfront vacation home with private and direct access to Umhlanga Beach, which is just steps away. This property has three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, dining and living areas, a kitchen, and a fully furnished patio so you can enjoy the Indian Ocean breeze and sunsets. This vacation rental can accommodate up to seven people and has everything you need for a memorable stay.
Umhlanga, KZN, South Africa
461 meters (0.3 ft) from Whalebone Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
The owner met us and explained the property and how things workWe absolutely loved staying at SealaVie Filip the owner was very helpful and welcoming and even left us a bottle of wine juice and chocolate Beautiful view of the ocean from every room Super qu...So many joggers on the beach Saturday morning we almost got trampledLocation:
It seemed very safe and the locals are fitness orientedThe beach is incredible and just a short walk from the apartmentRead more reviewsCleanliness:
The property was very clean and just as advertised
5. Modern beachfront unit (from USD 268)
This Vrbo rental is a sleek and modern beachfront unit located on the first level of a luxury, low-rise building in Umhlanga Rocks, one of the most coveted addresses in Umhlanga. This spacious vacation home has three bedrooms, two full baths, floor-to-ceiling picture windows that frame the ocean views beautifully, and a sea-facing patio where you can enjoy your morning coffee or all of your meals. From here, the beach is 820 feet (250 meters) away.
Umhlanga, KZN, South Africa
848 meters (0.6 ft) from Whalebone Pier
6. La Lucia Sands Beach Resort
Located along the long stretch that is Umhlanga Beach, La Lucia Sands Beach Resort is a laidback, apartment-style resort. This part of the beach is quieter and more relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the beachfront away from the crowd. La Lucia Sands has an outdoor pool, tennis equipment that you can borrow during your stay, and direct beach access through a private path.
La Lucia Sands Beach Resort
Address: 58 Marine Drive
1.46 km (1.0 mi) from Whalebone Pier
7. Two-bedroom vacation rental
This is a two-bedroom vacation rental right on the beachfront, granting you easy access to the water day and night. The main bedroom has a double bed, while the second bedroom has two single beds, making this property ideal for a small group of up to four people. The apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, a washer and dryer, two bathrooms, access to an outdoor swimming pool, and free parking courtesy of the apartment building.
Beachfront Luxury @ Umhlanga
Address: 80 Lagoon Drive
1.21 km (0.8 mi) from Whalebone Pier
It's always a great time in Umhlanga
For the ultimate Umhlanga experience, we recommend exploring the local dining scene and the coastal trails that weave around town. Don’t forget to check the social calendar to see what’s happening - Umhlanga is well-known for its summer fetes, Easter events, and more. Finally, browse our website to learn more about Umhlanga so you can plan the perfect holiday in this underrated South African destination.
History
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