Umhlanga on a Budget: Tips for an Affordable Visit

When I think about going on vacation, destinations like Umhlanga always come to mind. The stunning beaches, the vibrant nightlife, the incredible views – it’s a traveler’s paradise. But sometimes, the cost of traveling can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why I want to share my tips on how to visit Umhlanga without breaking the bank.

Plan Ahead and Save Money

Before embarking on any trip, it’s crucial to plan ahead. This not only helps you stay organized but also saves you money. Start by setting a budget and determining how much you can afford to spend on accommodation, transportation, and food.

Once you have your budget in place, it’s time to start looking for deals. Check out travel websites and compare prices for flights and accommodation. Consider staying in a budget-friendly hotel or even booking a vacation rental. Both options can save you a significant amount of money, allowing you to allocate more funds for other experiences.

Pack Smart and Light

When it comes to packing, less is more. Choose versatile clothing items that you can mix and match to create different outfits. This way, you can pack lightly and avoid any excess baggage fees. Don’t forget to pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle – these will come in handy during your stay in Umhlanga.

Explore the Free and Affordable Attractions

Umhlanga has a lot to offer in terms of attractions and activities, many of which are free or very affordable. Take a stroll along the picturesque Umhlanga Promenade or enjoy a beach day at Umhlanga Main Beach – soaking up the sun and taking a dip in the turquoise waters won’t cost you a thing.

If you’re interested in history and culture, make sure to visit the Umhlanga Lighthouse and the nearby Natal Sharks Board. Both attractions offer fascinating insights into Umhlanga’s past and marine conservation efforts.

For a taste of the local cuisine, head over to the Umhlanga Village Market. Here, you can find an array of delicious street food and unique handmade crafts. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture while supporting small businesses.

Eat like a Local

Eating out can quickly become expensive, especially in popular tourist destinations. However, Umhlanga has plenty of affordable dining options if you know where to look. Instead of eating at the touristy restaurants, venture into the local neighborhoods and discover hidden gems. Street food vendors and local markets serve up delicious meals at a fraction of the cost.

Use Public Transportation

When exploring Umhlanga, consider using public transportation instead of renting a car or relying on taxis. Not only will this save you money, but it will also give you a more authentic experience. Jump on a local bus or take a ride on the minibus taxis – they might be a bit crowded, but they are a budget-friendly way to get around.

Enjoy the Natural Beauty

One of the best things about Umhlanga is its stunning natural beauty. And the best part? It’s all for free. Take advantage of the beautiful beaches and spend your days basking in the sun or taking a leisurely swim. Explore the surrounding nature reserves and hiking trails – they offer breathtaking views and are a great way to connect with nature without spending a dime.

So, if you’re dreaming of a visit to Umhlanga but are worried about the cost, don’t let that hold you back. With a little planning and some clever budgeting, you can enjoy everything this incredible destination has to offer without breaking the bank. Happy travels!

You may have heard of Umhlanga Rocks as a popular party destination for matric students, but for the rest of the year, this little holiday town just north of Durban transforms into a welcoming and beautiful getaway. Its sandy beach stretches for miles, and the water is always warm enough for a dip. It’s the kind of place where you can comfortably wear shorts throughout most of the year.

However, it’s important to note that Umhlanga Rocks is not the most budget-friendly destination. The majority of accommodations here are luxury resorts located along the coastline, and the main dining street, Chartwell Street, is filled with high-end restaurants.

When I delved into this topic, I discovered some fantastic options for dining, indulging, and resting without breaking the bank. I’ve even included a special treat for that one occasion when you’re ready to treat yourself a little.

Where to grab a bite in Umhlanga

The Surf Life Saving Club

Welcome to Life Saver’s! That’s what the locals call it. Here, we may not have fancy service, but we sure know how to serve up deliciously fresh fish and ice-cold drinks. When you come here, you’ll place your order and pay with cash at the hatch. Then, head to the bar to grab a drink and find a cozy wooden bench on the balcony. From there, you can enjoy the stunning view of the waves while you wait for your impressively generous plates of food to arrive.

You can find us along the Promenade, just take a stroll north from the lighthouse. Our seafood and burgers are priced just right, ranging from R50 to R80 for a generous portion. If you have any questions or need to make a reservation, give us a call at 031-561-3519. You can also visit our website at www.umhlangalifesaving.co.za.

Welcome to Remo’s

When you’re in Chartwell Street, you’ll feel like part of the cool crowd. You can enjoy some delicious and reasonably priced pizzas and pastas with authentic Italian toppings. Even on a regular weekday, this place has a great vibe. The music is cheerful, and the waiters are happy and friendly.

If you want to find this place, just head to the corner of Chartwell and Umhlanga Rocks Drive. The pizzas here range from R70 to R90, and they’re so big that it’s hard to finish one in a single sitting. If you need more information, you can call 031-561-7143 or visit their website at www.remos.co.za.

For a special occasion: Harvey’s

I recently moved to Durban and discovered Harvey’s, a restaurant that truly embodies the essence of fine dining. As soon as I entered, I was captivated by the elegant atmosphere. The waiters, dressed in corseted waistcoats, added a touch of sophistication to the place. The dishes served here are not just ordinary meals; they are culinary masterpieces that require detailed explanations.

One thing that sets Harvey’s apart from other high-end restaurants is the generous portion sizes. Despite the gourmet and delicious nature of the food, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the portions were quite large. This means you can enjoy a fantastic dining experience without leaving the restaurant feeling hungry.

If you’re looking to visit Harvey’s, you can find it conveniently located on the corner of Umhlanga Rocks Drive and Ridge Road. The prices for main courses range from R110 to R180, making it a great option for those seeking an exceptional dining experience that doesn’t break the bank.

To make a reservation, simply give them a call at 031-561-4977 or visit their website at www.harveysrestaurant.co.za.

Where to Drink in Umhlanga

The George

When it comes to the town’s most popular hangout spot, you can find it right on Chartwell Street. It’s the place to be on a Friday night for cheap drinks and a buzzing atmosphere. The party often spills out onto the street when the indoor seating is full, creating an energetic vibe that’s hard to resist.

If you’re looking for this hotspot, you won’t have any trouble finding it. Just head to the cobblestoned section of Chartwell Street, and you won’t be able to miss it. Trust me, it’s worth a visit.

Discover Hooters

Now, let’s talk about Hooters. Although it might be more popular among guys, it’s actually a laid-back place to grab a drink or enjoy a tasty burger. The best part is, it’s conveniently located near everything. You have plenty of restaurants below, next to, and across the street from Hooters, so you won’t have to go far for a bite to eat.

And ladies, don’t let the reputation of Hooters intimidate you. It’s not as bad as they make it out to be. In fact, you might even have a great time there. Give it a chance!

You can find it at a fun and exciting place called Umhlanga Plaza Centre. It’s located at 2 Lagoon Drive. If you have any questions or need to make a reservation, you can give them a call at 031-561-2744. They also have a website where you can get more information and check out their menu. Just visit www.hooterssouthafrica.com.

Treat yourself: Try out Elements at Beverley Hills

While the boys are having a good time at Hooters, the girls can enjoy treating themselves with a refreshing Cosmo at the Beverley Hills Hotel. The Elements Bar provides a stunning view of the ocean, especially during the late afternoon when the sun begins to set. This happens to be the perfect time for indulging in some delectable cocktails.

You can find the Elements Bar on the first floor of the Beverley Hills Hotel, located at the bottom end of Lighthouse Road. If you need to contact them, feel free to call 031-561-2211. For more information, you can click here to visit Elements’ page on the hotel’s website.

Where to stay

Jessica’s B&B

Why not support one of the oldest B&B’s in town and enjoy a warm welcome from friendly owners and hosts at the same time? The cozy cottages are located on the same property as Jessica’s house, but don’t worry, you’ll have your own parking space and a separate entrance. For just an extra R50, you can start your day off right with a delicious breakfast buffet including cereals, fruit, toast, and your choice of bacon and eggs, all served under the beautiful boma next to the swimming pool.

You can find Jessica’s B&B at 35 Portland Drive.
Pricing starts at R550 per night for a two-person self-catering unit.
To make a reservation, call 031-561-3369 or visit www.jessicaskzn.co.za

Backpackers on the Beach

Umhlanga is not typically known for its backpacker accommodations, but there’s one in Durban North that comes pretty close to the vibe you’re looking for. Don’t worry, it’s just a short 5km away from Umhlanga. The rooms here are comfy and cozy, with private bathrooms and shared dorms available. And the best part? The showers always have hot water! In the mornings, you can fuel up with a delicious breakfast that’s included in the price. Fresh fruit, toast, and cereal will give you the energy you need for the day ahead. And when you’re ready to relax, you can take a dip in the swimming pool or grab a drink at the bar. Plus, the location is fantastic – Glenashley Beach is right across the road!

If you’re interested, you can find this backpackers at 17 The Promenade, Durban North. Prices start from just R140 for a dorm bed, which is a great deal. To book your stay or find out more information, you can call them at 031-562-1591 or visit their website at www.durbanbackpackers.com.

Now, if you’re looking to really treat yourself and go all out, I’ve got another recommendation for you. It’s called the Oyster Box Hotel, and it’s a splurge-worthy experience. This luxurious hotel is located in Umhlanga, right on the beachfront. The rooms are beautifully decorated and offer breathtaking ocean views. And let me tell you, the service here is top-notch. They go above and beyond to ensure that your stay is nothing short of spectacular. There are also several dining options to choose from, including a renowned seafood restaurant. So if you’re in the mood for some fine dining, you won’t be disappointed. Overall, staying at the Oyster Box Hotel is an experience you won’t soon forget.

I hope these recommendations help you find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Umhlanga. Enjoy your trip!

Umhlanga offers the ultimate in luxury. It’s a place where you can enjoy a private swimming pool with ocean views. Picture yourself swimming in warm water as you gaze out at the vast sea. And that’s not all. There’s also a cinema where you can watch movies all day long while snacking on free popcorn and sweets. How amazing is that?

Here’s another incredible feature: your balcony is so close to the ocean that you can actually throw a stone and it will land in the water. Talk about living the high life! And if you’re a foodie, you’ll be thrilled to know that there are three restaurants and three bars right on the property. Indulge your taste buds and quench your thirst without even leaving the premises.

Feeling stressed? No problem. On this luxurious getaway, you can unwind and relax at the full-service spa. It’s the perfect place to let your worries melt away as you indulge in a soothing massage or rejuvenating beauty treatment.

Umhlanga has thought of everything to make your stay extraordinary. From the heated swimming pool to the cinema and restaurants, every detail has been carefully considered to elevate your experience. So why wait? Book your stay at this unparalleled destination and prepare for a vacation that will leave you in awe.