The Oyster Box

Absolutely stunning hotel and extra special treat on arrival as the hotel left belated birthday cake and fizz for my husband who had his birthday 2 weeks ago. The staff in the hotel are amazing . The view from the hotel pool over the beach and lighthouse is stunning. We had a garden view room and it was equally lovely

A friend was visiting from Dubai, so we decided to do something a bit different and opted for the Spring Evening Tea event at The Oyster Box for a girls night out. (There aren't many options for a night on the town in Durban on a Monday, but I'm really glad we chose this one). The decor and aesthetic at The Oyster Box is so tasteful and unique. Hafeeza, the supervisor was such a lovely hostess and ensured that we were well taken care of through the evening. I have a bit of a fussy palate, and ironically, am not a tea drinker, but she even catered to that and further enhanced the tea experience by engaging with me on different flavor options better suited to my taste. Overall it was a beautiful experience.

A 10/10 does not even begin to cover the fantastic and memorable experience we had at The Oyster Box Hotel. The staff are all friendly, welcoming, helpful, hardworking and always go the extra mile even for something as small as a bucket of ice or a bottle of water. The Guest Relation team is brilliant, they really know how to make a stay memorable and special. I took my mom for her birthday to The Oyster Box for 5 glorious nights and I wish we could move in permanently. We were instantly made to feel at home from the minute we entered the parking and everyone instantly remembered us from our stay 8 months prior. We had a smooth check in and the stay was absolutely phenomenal. My family is very well travelled and we are not exaggerating that this hotel is the best hotel in the entire of South Africa and definitely on the list for some of the best hotels in the world. What stands out above all else is the staff. The staff make the stay memorable and they have 100% success rate in hospitality like no other hotel I have experienced. The food - the breakfast is to die for. Literally - I ate so much it lasted me for 2 meals because of the large variety and yummy selections that you just want to try everything. There is even a whole block of pure honeycomb to scratch away at for some fresh morning honey. You need to experience the Grill room at least once per stay which is the fine dining experience for dinner only. We had the lobster for the starter and salmon for the main and it was the best seafood I have ever had. The experience, the host, the music live entertainment, the staff and food was absolutely phenomenal. We even received a delicious in-house made mango sorbet as a palate cleanser before the main course and a selection of breads in a large cart to choose from. The housekeeping is efficient, friendly, helpful and keep the room looking spotless and brand new. I highly recommend this hotel for a relaxing stay, engagements, weddings, birthdays, business, or even for a quick visit for breakfast, lunch or dinner. We have not experienced the Spa as yet but we have heard it is fantastic - something to look forward to our next trip! Thank you Oyster Box Umhlanga Durban for a fantastic stay and see you again soon - Theodora and Athina

Situated on the picturesque Umhlanga beachfront on South Africa’s east coast, the Oyster Box Hotel is a scant twenty-minute drive from downtown Durban and seventeen minutes from the King Shaka International Airport. This beautiful hotel has a decidedly Colonial feel about it, boasting palace staircases, whirling ceiling fans, and four magnificent ceramic chandeliers purchased from the Savoy in London. Facilities include two restaurants, a lounge for afternoon tea, three bars, one of which is a rooftop affair offering views of the adjacent lighthouse, a cinema, two swimming pools, a spa, and a gym. I mention the Oyster Box because our tour of Durban and the surrounding area, culminated with high tea in the hotel’s alluring palm court. This was, indeed, a delight for the senses, a leisurely visual and taste extravaganza of sumptuous treats, featuring everything from freshly baked scones, pastries, quiches & cakes, to finger sandwiches and savories. High tea at the Oyster Box is nationally famous and must be booked several months in advance. If you are traveling anywhere in the area, this is a sybaritic gastronomic experience that should not be missed.

Had dinner on the terrace and had the most amazing experience , Sandile was the most attentive waiter and made us feel at home. Great food and drinks, and all the staff made us feel very special on our anniversary dinner. Highly recommended for a great dinner out.