On the sun-kissed shores of Umhlanga Rocks Beach, The Oyster Box offers a tranquil retreat. Unwind with a deep-tissue massage at the spa or lounge by one of two outdoor pools. Enjoy Indian cuisine at one of two on-site restaurants, stay connected with in-room WiFi and take advantage of valet parking.
VIP Access
Reviews
Loved by guests
9.8 out of 10, Loved by guests
Top-rated by travellersTop-rated by travellers
Popular amenities
Pool
Spa
Airport transfer
Pet friendly
Free parking
Free WiFi
Main amenities (12)
Daily housekeeping
On the beach
2 restaurants and 3 bars/lounges
Full-service spa
2 outdoor pools
Breakfast available
Free children's club
Free supervised childcare
Health club
Sauna
Beach umbrellas
Beach sun loungers
Feel at home (6)
Children stay free
Free cribs/infant beds
Babysitting (surcharge)
Children's club (free)
Premium TV channels
Garden
The current price is R6 696
R6 696
R7 700 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Jun - 23 Jun
Why we love this property
Beachside bliss
This hotel overlooking the sea boasts direct beach access. Sandy shores await with loungers, umbrellas, and towels. Nearby windsurfing adds adventure.
Work and play paradise
This hotel in a vibrant district offers business facilities and meeting rooms. Guests can unwind at the spa, sauna, and poolside bar after work.
Dining paradise
Culinary magic unfolds at 2 restaurants, a cafe, and 3 bars. Savour Indian cuisine with ocean views, sip champagne in-room, or enjoy vegan delights.
Gateway Theatre of Shopping - 4 min drive - 2.2 km
Getting around
King Shaka Intl. Airport (DUR) - 19 min drive
Airport shuttle (surcharge)
Area shuttle
Restaurants
Starbucks - 4 min walk
Radisson Blu - 3 min walk
Butcher boys - 3 min walk
Hooters - 2 min walk
Casa Bella - 3 min walk
About this property
The Oyster Box
At The Oyster Box, you can hit the beach to enjoy the shade from a beach umbrella or relax on a sunlounger, plus you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Umhlanga Rocks Beach. 2 outdoor pools provide fun for everyone, while guests in the mood for pampering can visit the spa to indulge in deep-tissue massages, aromatherapy and manicures and pedicures. The Ocean Terrace, one of 2 restaurants, serves Indian cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Other highlights at this luxurious hotel include 3 bars/lounges, a free kid's club and a poolside bar. Fellow travellers say good things about the helpful staff and overall property condition.
At a glance
DONE
Hotel size
86 rooms
Arranged over 3 floors
DONE
Arriving/Leaving
Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age – 18
Check-out time is 11:00 AM
Late check-out subject to availability
DONE
Special check-in instructions
This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 48 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
DONE
Required at check-in
Credit card, debit card or cash deposit required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 18
DONE
Children
Up to 12 children stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
Babysitting*
Free supervised childcare
Free children's club
DONE
Pets
Pets allowed (2 total)*
Service animals welcome
Specific rooms only*
Food and water bowls available
WIFI
Internet
Free WiFi in public areas
Free WiFi and wired internet access in rooms
LOCAL_PARKING
Parking
Free on-site self-parking
Free on-site valet parking
Wheelchair-accessible parking on site
Limited self- and valet parking on-site
Electric vehicle charging point on site
DONE
Transfers
Airport shuttle on request (available 24 hours a day)*
DONE
Other information
Designated smoking area (fines apply)
Property amenities
Food and drink
Full breakfast (surcharge) each morning 7:00 AM–10:30 AM
2 restaurants
3 bars/lounges
Poolside bar
Coffee shop
Private dining
Private picnics
Shared refrigerator
24-hour room service
Snack bar/deli
Traveling with children
Children stay free (see details)
Free children's club
Free supervised childcare/activities
Children's menu
Children's games
Toys
What to do
On the beach
Horse riding nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Working away
Business center
Meeting room
Computer station
Conference center
Services
24-hour front desk
Concierge services
Tour/ticket assistance
Dry cleaning/laundry services
Free newspapers in lobby
Luggage storage
Wedding services
Porter/bellhop
Beach sun loungers
Beach towels
Beach umbrellas
Pool loungers
Pool umbrellas
Romance packages
Facilities
3 buildings/towers
Built in 1947
Safe-deposit box at front desk
Garden
Picnic area
Terrace
Library
Television in common areas
Health club
2 outdoor pools
Arcade/game room
Full-service spa
Sauna
Massage/treatment rooms
Wine tasting room
Locally sourced food is prioritized
Vegan dining options
Vegetarian dining options
Locally-owned & organized tours & activities
Local artist showcase
Some profits reinvested in community and sustainability
Double-glazed windows
Comprehensive food waste policy
Waste recycling policy
No plastic soda bottles
No plastic coffee stirrers
No plastic drinking straws
No plastic water bottles
Reusable cups only
Reusable tableware only
Banquet hall
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible
Elevator
Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
Wheelchair-accessible spa
Wheelchair-accessible pool
Wheelchair-accessible fitness center
Wheelchair-accessible business center
Wheelchair-accessible restaurant
Wheelchair-accessible lounge
Accessible airport shuttle
Handrails in hallways
Handrails in stairways
Wheelchairs available on site
Raised toilet seat
Low-height counter/sink
Grab bar near toilet
Tile flooring in room
Room amenities
Be entertained
43-inch Smart TV
Premium satellite channels
Home comfort
Heating (climate-controlled) and air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Minibar
Coffee/tea maker
Electric kettle
Bathrobes and slippers
Iron/ironing board (on request)
Sleep well
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Pillow menu
Turndown service
Alarm clock
Premium bedding
Free crib/infant bed
What to enjoy
Patio
Freshen up
Free toiletries
Hair dryer
Towels
Toothbrush and toothpaste (on request)
Toilet paper
Stay connected
Desk
Free newspapers
Free WiFi and wired internet
Phone
Desk chair
Electrical adapters/chargers
Food and drink
Champagne service
Free bottled water
Highchair
Reusable coffee/tea filters
More
Daily housekeeping
In-room safe
Access via exterior corridors
Energy-saving switches
Uses some LED lighting
Water-efficient toilets only
Guidebooks/recommendations
Restaurant dining guide
Special features
Spa
The onsite spa has 6 treatment rooms including rooms for couples. Services include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, Swedish massages, and facials. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy. The spa is equipped with Turkish bath/hammam.
The spa is open daily. Guests under 16 years old are not allowed in the spa.
Dining
The Ocean Terrace - Overlooking the ocean, this family restaurant specializes in Indian cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A children's menu is available. Reservations are required.
Palm Court - This coffee shop specializes in international cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Open 24 hours. Reservations are required. Open daily.
The Grill Room - This fine-dining restaurant specializes in international cuisine and serves dinner only. Reservations are required. Open daily.
The Lighthouse Bar - This rooftop bar specializes in international cuisine and serves light fare only. Open daily.
The Oyster Bar - This Champagne bar specializes in international cuisine and serves light fare only. Open daily.
Awards and affiliations
Eco-Certified Property
This property participates in EarthCheck, a program that measures the property's impact on one or more of the following: environment, community, cultural-heritage, the local economy.
The Oyster Box is listed in the 2021 Travel + Leisure 500.
Fees & policies
Refundable deposits
Breakage deposit: ZAR 1000 per stay
Optional extras
Full breakfast is offered for an extra charge of approximately ZAR 695 for adults and ZAR 695 for children
Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of ZAR 1045 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 7)
Early check-in can be arranged for an extra charge (subject to availability)
Late check-out can be arranged for an extra charge (subject to availability)
Children & extra beds
Babysitting is available for an extra charge
Rollaway beds are available for ZAR 950 per night
Pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Pet deposit: ZAR 1000 per night
Pets are allowed for an extra charge of ZAR 1000 per pet, per night
Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)
Children under 18 years old are not allowed in the fitness facility without adult supervision
Guests under 16 years old are not allowed in the spa
Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments and can be made by contacting the property before arrival at the number on the booking confirmation
Policies
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
Some facilities may have restricted access. Guests can contact the property for details using the contact information on the booking confirmation.
Some water is reused through a grey water recycling system.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit on site.
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards and cash.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club
Property Registration Number CMP62944
National rating
Quality Graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) – South Africa's official quality assurance organization.
Also known as
Box Oyster
Oyster Box
Oyster Box Hotel
Oyster Box Hotel Umhlanga
Oyster Box Umhlanga
Oyster Box Umhlanga Rocks
The Oyster Box Hotel
The Oyster Box Umhlanga
Oyster Box Umhlanga Rocks
The Oyster Box Hotel Umhlanga
Frequently asked questions
Does The Oyster Box offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, The Oyster Box does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.
Is there a pool at The Oyster Box?
Yes, there are 2 outdoor pools.
Are pets allowed at The Oyster Box?
Yes, pets are welcome, with a limit of 2 total. There's a charge of ZAR 1000 per pet, per night, and there's also a deposit of ZAR 1000 per night. Service animals are exempt from fees. Food and water bowls are available.
Is parking offered on site at The Oyster Box?
Yes, there's free self and valet parking. Parking spots may be limited. Electric vehicle charging is available.
Is airport shuttle service offered by The Oyster Box?
Yes, an airport shuttle is available. The charge is ZAR 1045 per vehicle one-way.
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Oyster Box?
Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime. There's a charge for early check-in (subject to availability). Check-out time is 11:00 AM. Late check-out is available for a charge (subject to availability).
Is there an onsite casino at The Oyster Box?
No, this hotel doesn't have a casino, but Sibaya Casino (7-min drive) and Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World (11-min drive) are both nearby.
What is there to do at The Oyster Box and nearby?
Have fun with nearby activities like fishing, horseback riding, and windsurfing. Indulge in a treatment at the spa and enjoy a swim in one of the 2 outdoor swimming pools. The Oyster Box also has 3 bars, a sauna, and a Turkish bath, as well as an arcade, a picnic area, and a garden.
Are there restaurants at or near The Oyster Box?
Yes, there are 2 onsite restaurants, featuring Indian cuisine and ocean views.
Does The Oyster Box have any outdoor private spaces?
Yes, every room features a patio.
What's the area around The Oyster Box like?
The Oyster Box is a short 10-minute walk from Umhlanga Rocks Beach and 2 minutes' walk from Umhlanga Lighthouse.
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Reviews
Reviews
9,8
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
9,8
Cleanliness
9,4
Location
9,8
Staff & service
9,6
Property conditions & facilities
Guest review summary
What guests liked
Breakfast at the property was a feast, with a superb buffet on the terrace offering a wide variety of delicious options. (6 reviews)
From real guest reviews summarized by AI.
Popular mentions
Service staff
Room
Restaurant
Location
Food
View
Reviews
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
17 February 2026
Have stayed in the truly wonderful Oyster Box many times. Everything is always superb, attention to detail, staff, pool, dining
Would totally recommend the hotel and experience of staying
Judith
Judith, 10-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
27 November 2025
It was truly amazing. Everyone was very friendly
Peter
Peter, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
17 April 2025
Really enjoy our stay at The Oyster Box, staff are so friendly and they really take care of you feel really special, go back every year because we enjoy it so much.
Jeanette
Jeanette, 4-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
16 November 2024
Best hotel and staff ever!
The best hotel we have ever stayed it! The staff are incredible, the food delicious and the beds so comfy.
Will definitely stay here again, can't wait!
The Oyster Box is an elegant, extraordinary property in a stunning location.
Phyllis
Phyllis, 1-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
27 October 2025
Despite a dismal booking and check-in experience the rest of the stay was wonderful. Direct feedback with the booking and front desk team has been shared but no attempt at amends were made.
Michelle
Michelle, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
30 September 2024
Old style hotel, with Raffles-like entrance, and excellent service. Wonderful buffet breakfast. Excellent grill room.
Donald H
Donald H, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
27 March 2024
Wonderful stay
Absolutely super hotel. Excellent service all round. Incredible staff, lovely pool. Great restaurants. Grill room superb. Ideal location
Verified traveller
3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
07 January 2025
Amazing people
Amazing staff!
Great location!
Exceptional Breakfast!
Pool service amazing!
See you soon old lady!
Rehandre
Rehandre, 4-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
15 December 2024
The Oyster Box is exceptional. The Grill offers wonderful dining with great value overseen by George and his team who always offer first rate service with pinache and style and the bossa nova singer provides the perfect accompaniment . The spa staff are lovely and offer amazing treatments Still my favourite hotel .
julie
julie, 6-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
18 August 2024
The Oyster Box is an exceptional hotel . The level of service and its unique style is incomparable . George the Maitre D and Somolier in The Grill Restaurant is an absolute asset to the hotel and to The Red Carnation Group
julie
julie, 8-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
14 February 2025
Great relaxing trip
Just love the hotel. Super efficient, professional, friendly staff. Always so polite, courteous. Nothing is too much trouble. Good position. Would thoroughly recommend
Judith
Judith, 6-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
07 July 2024
Yet again another amazing stay at the Oyster Box. Thanks to all the staff involved for making the 8 days so perfect, all were exceptional but we would like to give a special thank you to 3 staff that made our 3 hour breakfasts on the Terrace so wonderful, Stephanie, Letho & Andile you were amazing and we can’t wait to come back and see you again next year if not sooner.
Nicholas
Nicholas, 8-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
06 September 2023
Stay here !! One of the best hotels in SA!
This has to be one of the best hotels in South Africa.
From service to offerings, to quality of offering, attention, cleanliness.
Honestly i can not say one bad word about this hotel.
If you can, definitely stay here!!!
It is a beautiful stunning hotel!
Regards,
Pedro
Pedro, 6-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
02 September 2024
We took our little dog with us - the staff were all amazing with her.
Definately seen an improvement with staff service. They were all OUTSTANDING
Lauren
Lauren, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
13 September 2023
Yet another fabulous stay at the Oyster Box, such a wonderful place to stay and relax with ultra friendly and efficient staff. We especially look forward to the buffet breakfast, a great way to start the day, sat on the terrace looking out in to the Indian Ocean and spotting the passing whales and dolphins, such a treat. A special mention and thanks must go to Wesley and Clive along with their teams for looking after us as usual, can’t wait for next year.
Nicholas
Nicholas, 7-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
16 February 2025
OB 2nd visit
Very good. Bar closed too early. No entertainment in the evenings. Dead!
Peter
Peter, 7-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
31 July 2025
The ever splendid Oyster Box. Personal and attentive service in a stunning setting. Uniquely charming. Fabulous service at every turn from the lovely first aiders to the friendly and professional pool staff, to the polite and charming front desk staff . But as ever the icing on this fabulous cake were George and his team and Leon in The Grill. Faultless and friendly service , enthusiastic shared knowledge from a great sommelier and head of house and lovely music from maestro Leon. The monkeys are ever cheekier and Sabenka is sadly missed but the splendour of this lovely hotel endures . And our new favourite breakfast server , Charlie on The Terrace . Already counting the days until we return . Also very lovely to experience sunrise and the regular dolphins swimming by from the sea facing garden cabana . I just need to win the lottery to stay in that amazing Presidential suite !
julie
julie, 7-night trip
Verified
6/10 Good
10 March 2024
Oyster Box - Disappointing Stay
The service from staff and overall friendliness of the staff is outstanding. The hotel itself leaves alot to be desired. The rooms are small and everything is crammed into this small space. The set up is old and outdated with take away from the appeal of the hotel. The rooms are not cleaned properly and we often found slithering insects/worms on the floor. The Ocean Terrace - the food was good, not outstanding but my main issues is that staff are not knowledgeable on the wine list or dishes offered. The seating seems to be subjective as on my 1st visit, I was seated right at the door of the hotel. This was uncomfortable. The 2nd night, I was seated under the broken roof, again not ideal. All restaurants close at 10pm even for hotel guests, this is another major issue. When I compare this to the Saxon which is similar in pricing then this hotel is a rip off. The Saxon Hotel is miles ahead on every aspect.
Yegan
Yegan, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
15 March 2026
This is an excellent hotel, you get what you pay for and this hotel and its staff deliver 110% we had a villa room which was outstanding the pools were lovely and the staff are super friendly and helpful
Richard
Richard, 6-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
17 January 2026
Everything about this hotel was excellent
AJ
AJ, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
22 March 2026
All perfect
adrian
adrian, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
25 December 2025
Wonderful variety and quality of spa treatments
julie
julie, 8-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
13 September 2025
This is the best hotel in the greater Durban metropolitan area.