5 Day Durban North Coast Beach Vacation

After clearing customs and immigration at O.R. Tambo International, you’ll find a representative from African Sky waiting for you. After formalities, you’ll be escorted to the appropriate departure terminal to board a local flight to Durban. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to your luxury seaside accommodation, about 16–20 km (10–12 mi) from King Shaka International Airport. The Oyster Box’s origins trace to 1869, when the original Oyster Lodge served as a navigation beacon. Over time it evolved into today’s landmark luxury hotel on the Umhlanga promenade.

Your personal preferences are well catered for at The Oyster Box. The Grill Room offers refined dining, while the Ocean Terrace serves bistro-style fare with Indian Ocean views. The famed Curry Buffet presents multiple curries — with fresh condiments and breads — reflecting Durban’s significant Indian community. Enjoy afternoon High Tea in the Palm Court, cocktails across the hotel’s bars, the award-winning spa, cinema, and a 24-hour gym. Local eateries and stores are nearby, and taxis are available for excursions.

After a last relaxed breakfast and time to soak up the Indian Ocean views from Umhlanga’s promenade, you’ll check out of The Oyster Box and meet your driver for the short road transfer back to King Shaka International Airport. The drive typically takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic, and traces part of the scenic North Coast with glimpses of coastal wetlands and suburbs that form greater Durban.

At the airport, you’ll check in for your flight to Johannesburg, bringing your South African beach holiday to a close. On arrival at O.R. Tambo International, you may connect with your onward international journey or continue independently with travel arrangements elsewhere in the country. You leave with memories of warm Indian Ocean swells, lighthouse sunsets and a classic Durban curry experience that can easily be combined with a safari or Cape Town stay on a longer itinerary.