The Oyster Box

5.0 star property
Luxury hotel on the beach, with 2 outdoor pools
VIP Access

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Oyster Box

2 outdoor pools, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Luxury Suite, Sea Facing | Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, desk
Presidential Suite | Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, desk
Couples treatment rooms, Turkish bath, aromatherapy, hot stone massages
2 restaurants, breakfast, lunch, dinner served; Indian cuisine

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Pool
  • Bar
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Gym

Explore the area

Map
2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, 4320
  • Umhlanga Lighthouse
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Umhlanga Rocks Beach
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Gateway Theatre of Shopping
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Durban (DUR-King Shaka Intl.)
    ‪21 min drive‬
VIP Access
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  • Expect exceptional service
  • Extra savings and perks for Rewards members

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Room options

Presidential Suite

  • 4844 sq ft
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds

Superior Villa (Non-Sea Facing King/Twin, Garden)

  • 1130 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

Family Room, Sea Facing

  • 388 sq ft
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Twin Bed

Luxury Suite, Sea Facing

  • 592 sq ft
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Deluxe Twin Room, 1 King Bed, Sea Facing

  • 818 sq ft
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

Villa, Sea Facing (Garden Loft Non-Sea Facing King/Twin)

  • 689 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Twin Bed

Junior Room, 1 King Bed (Cabana)

  • 388 sq ft
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Classic Room (Non-Sea Facing King/Twin, Garden)

  • 344 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Classic Twin Room, 1 King Bed, Sea Facing

  • 291 sq ft
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Luxury Twin Room, 1 King Bed, Sea Facing

  • 323 sq ft
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Room, 1 King Bed, Sea Facing (Cabana)

  • 388 sq ft
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

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About the neighborhood

Umhlanga

Umhlanga Rocks Beach is a short stroll from The Oyster Box, and other popular attractions like Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve are within a mile (2 km). This 86-room, 5-star hotel has 2 outdoor pools along with a full-service spa and 2 restaurants.

What's nearby

  • Umhlanga Lighthouse - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Umhlanga Rocks Beach - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Umhlanga Main Beach - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Trail - 2 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Gateway Theatre of Shopping - 3 min drive - 1.4 miles

Getting around

  • King Shaka Intl. Airport (DUR) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Butcher Boys - Umhlanga - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Tiki Tonga - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Hooters - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Doppio Zero - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪The George - ‬5 min walk

About this property

The Oyster Box

Luxury hotel on the beach, with 2 outdoor pools
Guests of The Oyster Box have access to a full-service spa, 2 outdoor pools, and a gym. Free valet and self parking are available, or if you're not driving, take the airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for ZAR 1045 per vehicle one-way. The front desk is staffed 24/7 to help with concierge services, luggage storage, and securing valuables. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls. Other amenities at this beach hotel include a sauna, free WiFi in public areas, and meeting rooms.
Guests can expect 43-inch Smart TVs with satellite channels, along with free WiFi and wired Internet. Beds are dressed in premium bedding and pillow menus, and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include patios, minibars, and coffee makers. Housekeeping is available on request.
2 outdoor swimming pools are on site along with a health club and a sauna.

Children under 18 years old are not allowed in the fitness facility without adult supervision.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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.

Awards and affiliations

The Oyster Box is listed in the 2021 Travel + Leisure 500.

Languages

Afrikaans, English, French, Spanish, Xhosa, Zulu

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle on request for a surcharge
  • Free self parking on site
  • Free valet parking on site
  • Limited onsite parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Daily full breakfast available 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee: ZAR 695 for adults and ZAR 695 for children
  • 2 restaurants
  • 3 bars/lounges
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A poolside bar
  • Couples/private dining
  • Private picnics
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • Palm Court
  • The Grill Room
  • The Lighthouse Bar
  • The Ocean Terrace
  • The Oyster Bar

Things to do

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Arcade/game room
  • Free children's club
  • Full-service spa
  • Health club
  • Library
  • Sauna
  • TV in common areas
  • Wine tasting room

Family friendly

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Arcade/game room
  • Babysitting (surcharge)
  • Children's games
  • Children's toys
  • Free children's club
  • Free supervised activities for children
  • Highchair
  • In-room crib
  • Laundry facilities
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Guidebooks
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk
  • Shared refrigerator

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • Business center
  • Computer station
  • Conference center
  • Meeting room

Outdoors

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Garden
  • On the beach
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • 6 treatment rooms
  • Aromatherapy
  • Body scrubs
  • Body wraps
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Facials
  • Hot stone massages
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Prenatal massages
  • Spa open daily
  • Swedish massages
  • Turkish bath

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Accessible airport shuttle
  • Elevator
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Handrails in hallways
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Low-height counter and sink
  • Raised toilet seat
  • Tile flooring in room
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible business center
  • Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible gym
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant
  • Wheelchair-accessible spa
  • Wheelchairs on site

More

  • 3 buildings
  • 3 floors
  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
  • At least 80% of food locally-sourced
  • Banquet hall
  • Biodegradable drinking straws available
  • Built in 1947
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • Designated smoking areas (fines apply)
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Local artist showcase
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • No plastic drinking straws
  • No plastic soft drink bottles
  • No plastic water bottles
  • Reusable cups
  • Reusable tableware
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian dining options

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Free crib
  • Pillow menu
  • Premium bedding
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Slippers
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste (on request)
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 43-inch smart TV with premium satellite channels

Food and drink

  • 24-hour room service
  • Champagne service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Free bottled water
  • Minibar
  • Restaurant dining guides

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Electrical adapters
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Free daily newspapers
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Iron/ironing board on request
  • Laptop workspace
  • LED lighting
  • Phone
  • Reusable coffee/tea filters
  • Safe
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in is available for a fee
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged

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

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for ZAR 1000 per pet, per night, plus a deposit of ZAR 1000 per night
  • 2 total pets
  • Food and water bowls are available
  • Certain rooms only
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Up to 12 kids stay free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for ZAR 950.0 per night
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Breakage deposit: ZAR 1000 per stay

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Fee for full breakfast: approximately ZAR 695 for adults and ZAR 695 for children
  • Airport shuttle fee: ZAR 1045 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 7)
  • Pet deposit: ZAR 1000 per night
  • Pet fee: ZAR 1000 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Early check-in is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Rollaway bed fee: ZAR 950.0 per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Minimum Spring Break check-in age is 18 years old
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
This property uses a grey water recycling system
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available 24 hours). Driving? This property offers free parking, along with a car charging station.
Property Registration Number CMP62944

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • The minimum check-in age for Spring Break is 18 years old.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • This property uses a grey water recycling system.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Reservations need to be made in advance for massage services and spa treatments. Contact the hotel at the phone number listed on your booking confirmation.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • Some facilities may be restricted. For more details, contact the property. Contact information can be found on your booking confirmation.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

National rating

Quality Graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) – South Africa's official quality assurance organization.

Property is 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

Are free cancellation options available at The Oyster Box?

The Oyster Box offers free cancellation on some room rates. To learn more, review the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at The Oyster Box?

As of May 9, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Oyster Box on Jun 9, 2025 start from $365.39, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to do near The Oyster Box?

Located steps from Umhlanga Lighthouse, this hotel is in Umhlanga, and within a 10-minute walk of Umhlanga Rocks Beach and Umhlanga Main Beach. You'll also find Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Trail and Gateway Theatre of Shopping within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at The Oyster Box?

Yes, valet parking and self parking are offered for free at the hotel. Though parking is limited, accessible parking and electric car charging are also available.

Is there a spa at The Oyster Box?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include deep-tissue massages, Swedish massages, body wraps, and couples treatments.

Does The Oyster Box feature a casino at the property?

No, The Oyster Box doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at The Oyster Box?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are 2 outdoor pools.

Is The Oyster Box good for couples?

This beachfront hotel offers many amenities for couples, including Champagne service as well as 2 outdoor pools and a poolside bar.

Are there hot tubs at The Oyster Box?

No, but this hotel does have a sauna.

Does The Oyster Box have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Yes, The Oyster Box has 2 restaurants, and serves a full breakfast each morning for a surcharge.

Does The Oyster Box allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at The Oyster Box for a fee of ZAR 1000 per pet, per night. The property also provides food and water bowls. A deposit of ZAR 1000 per night is collected.

Does The Oyster Box have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

Where is the closest airport to The Oyster Box?

The closest major airport to The Oyster Box is King Shaka Intl. Airport (DUR), which is 10.9 mi away (21 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at The Oyster Box?

Yes, every guestroom at The Oyster Box comes with a patio with some featuring sea or garden views.

Does The Oyster Box have a wedding venue?

If wedding bells are in your future, take advantage of the wedding venue at The Oyster Box.

The Oyster Box Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 255 out of 295 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 27 out of 295 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 295 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 6 out of 295 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 295 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jeanette

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Shirley

Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Amazing as always
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Judith

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Very satisfied guests

Simply perfect hotel in all aspects. Would not hesitate to recommend
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Peter

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

OB 2nd visit

Very good. Bar closed too early. No entertainment in the evenings. Dead!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Judith

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

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
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Phyllis

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The Oyster Box is an elegant, extraordinary property in a stunning location.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Traveled with group, Business traveler, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Best Hotel in the World!

Still my favourite hotel anywhere in the world!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mattias

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rehandre

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Amazing people

Amazing staff! Great location! Exceptional Breakfast! Pool service amazing! See you soon old lady!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Johannes Petrus

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Clark

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Fabulous

We love it so much here, we extended our stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

julie

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
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 .
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pascal

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Attention to every detail. It was a true ultra prestige experience.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Arthur

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

paul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

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!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donald H

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Old style hotel, with Raffles-like entrance, and excellent service. Wonderful buffet breakfast. Excellent grill room.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rob

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lauren

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
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
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

julie

Traveled with group, Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
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
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mandisa

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas, Fareham

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Roberto, Chicago

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
One of the most stunning hotels I have ever stayed at in the world, everything was of top quality, from the team to the property to the food. Outstanding.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

mark, taplow

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great stay

Amazing hotel. Perfect location. Wonderful staff. Excellent restaurants.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024