There is probably no better way to banish the winter blues than an Umhlanga adventure!
Visitors from around the world flock to the warm subtropical climate of Umhlanga to relax and have fun on one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. Situated on the east coast of South Africa just north of the vibrant Port City of Durban, Umhlanga faces the the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and has some of the best South African accommodation, first world shopping and stunning beaches to name but a few.
So what to do when you are in Umhlanga?
Here are our 7 Top Umhlanga recommendations:
#1 Umhlanga recommendation: Go to the Beach
Umhlanga is well known for it’s gorgeous golden sandy beaches and delightfully all-year-round warm subtropical climate which means that you can go to the beach and actually catch a tan and take a dip in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean in the middle of winter. Nothing lifts your spirit quite like a bit of sunshine!
#2 Umhlanga recommendation: Go for a morning run on the promenade
The beautifully paved promenade is approximately 3km long and spans the popular apartment and resort complexes that line the golden sands of this premier beach resort destination. Lovely gardens line the length of the promenade with carefully selected indigenous plants – a perfect view for a morning run next to the beach!
#3 Umhlanga recommendation: Shop up a storm at Gateway Theatre of Shopping
Gateway Theatre of Shopping is the ultimate fashion, entertainment and dining destination. With over 400 stores, 70 eateries and a host of exciting entertainment, visitors are spoilt for choice. At Gateway you will find local South African retail, popular international brands such as Zara, Forever New, Cotton On, Superdry, Gant, and everything in between. Gateway also features an 18 cinema Ster Kinekor complex, IMAX Theatre, Funtubbles Funfair, Wavehouse, Electric Avenue bowling, Action Karting and much much more.
#4 Umhlanga recommendation: Enjoy a cocktail at Tashas
Beautiful food. Stunning environments. Engagingly delivered. Tashas Umhlanga is located at Gateway Theatre of shopping and is ABSOLUTELY a dining experience you cannot miss! Delicious wholesome food made fresh on order, superb coffees, smoothies and cocktails, gorgeous interior – what more can one ask for?!
#5 Umhlanga recommendation: Breakfast at the Oyster Box
Standing majestically on Umhlanga’s beachfront overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic lighthouse, The Oyster Box is the ultimate in colonial charm and style. The beautiful Ocean Terrace restaurant at the Oyster Box overlooks the rolling Indian Ocean and is perfect for family and more casual dining. With authentic Tandoori and pizza ovens to prepare some of your favourite dishes, this enchanting restaurant offers mouthwatering Indian cuisine, a full English breakfast buffet, as well as an a la carte menu for lunch and dinner. The Ocean Terrace is also the perfect backdrop for a relaxed drink, elegantly enhanced by a nearby rim flow pool.
#6 Umhlanga recommendation: Visit uShaka Marine World
The 5th largest Aquarium in the WORLD and the highest slide in the southern hemisphere! Craaaaaaazzzzy! Located in the centre of uShaka Marine World is Sea World, comprising a saltwater aquarium with indoor and outdoor displays and exhibits, the iconic cargo ship wreck, the 1200 seater dolphin stadium where you’ll be entertained by the world-famous Gambit and friends, the seal stadium and penguin rookery. A fun fresh water world of slides and pools, uShaka’s Wet ‘n Wild caters for the adrenaline junkie and those less adventurous! This freshwater entertainment facility offers thrilling water rides, swimming pools, and other leisure amenities.
#7 Umhlanga recommendation: Watch a movie at the IMAX theatre
Clarity, detail and size make IMAX more than just a movie. It’s an experience. The IMAX surround sound is incredible and the custom screens brings every little detail to cristal clear life. We had the pleasure of watching Finding Dory in 3-D at the IMAX theatre at Gateway and boy did we have FUN! Highly recommended for the whole family.
*Sources: Wikipedia, Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Tashas, Oyster box, uShaka Marine world
