Five things we miss about Durban’s top attractions

The coronavirus pandemic has put the brakes on our travel plans, and we can’t help but reminisce about the good old days when we could freely explore our beautiful city.

Durban has dozens of amazing attractions with millions of tourists visiting the city every year.

We can’t blame them for wanting to escape to our warm coastal city, particularly in winter.

Things are a little different this winter season because of Covid-19, but that won’t stop us from giving props to some of the city’s hotspots.

Here’s a look at some of the things we miss about Durban’s top attractions.

The beach life...

Durban’s coastline stretches for miles and the subtropical Indian Ocean is always calling our name – especially on the weekends! uShaka Beach is popular among locals and not just because of its Blue Flag status. The beach is a great place to take a leisurely morning stroll on a Sunday or meet up with your friends for a bike ride on the promenade.  

It also helps that uShaka Marine World – which has one of the largest aquariums in the world – is located in the area. There’s fun for the whole family.

Durban also has the longest beachfront promenade in Sub-Saharan Africa – after our Mayor unveiled a 750-metre extension in December. The golden mile now spans from the harbour mouth all the way to Blue Lagoon – and a jog along the stretch is one of the best ways to view the city’s beaches.

Other popular Durban beaches include Umhlanga Beach, Dairy Beach, Addington Beach and North and South Beach. 

The food...

Durban is rich in history and culture, and it’s evident in its unique cuisine. The city is known for its delicious street food, which includes the famous bunny chow, boerewors rolls, mogodu (tripe), braaied mielies, vetkoeks, kotas and “walkie-talkies” – cooked chicken feet! A trip to Durban is not complete without trying the variety of Indian and Zulu cuisine. 

The city also has a wide selection of great restaurants.  From the Roma Revolving Restaurant, and its amazing city views, to a foodie’s paradise on Florida Road – there’s something for all taste buds. 

The nightlife...

Durban comes alive every Friday night as scores of locals go in search of the perfect place to unwind after a long week at work.  Max's Lifestyle in Umlazi is one of the best places to dance the night away while enjoying some shisa nyama. Mashamplanes’s Lounge, Tate’s Kasi Grill and the Joint Jazz Café are also great places to enjoy a Friday night supper with friends.

Beach Bums, Joe Cool’s, Eyadini, Cubana and The Rainbow Restaurant and Jazz Club are also popular hangout spots.

The bustling city centre..

There’s lots to do in Durban central - which explains why it is always so busy! These are some of our favourite places to visit.

• The Juma Masjid Mosque
• The Workshop Centre
• Victoria Street Market
• Wilson’s Wharf
• Durban Ice Rink
• Moses Mabhida Stadium
• Durban Botanic Gardens

Durban is the warmest place to be and it’s not just because of its temperatures. The welcoming spirit of locals will always put a smile on your face – especially when you visit the arts and culture scene. The Durban Art Gallery, Artspace, the Phansi Museum and the Bat Centre are great places to show local artists some support. Durban is also home to many great markets such as Victoria Street Market, Essenwood Market and the I Heart market.