The Oyster Box

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At The Oyster Box, you can hit the beach to enjoy the shade from a beach umbrella or relax in a sun lounger, 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 mani/pedis. 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 travelers say good things about the helpful staff and overall property condition.
VIP Access

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by guests
Top-rated by travelers

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)

  • Free cribs/infant beds
  • Babysitting (surcharge)
  • Children's club (free)
  • Premium TV channels
  • Garden
  • Terrace
$407 nightly
The total price is $472
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Total with taxes and fees

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. Savor Indian cuisine with ocean views, sip champagne in-room, or enjoy vegan delights.

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 11 of 11 rooms

View all photos for Classic Room (Non-Sea Facing King/Twin)

A bedroom with a desk, chair, bed, and a balcony with wicker furniture.

Classic Room (Non-Sea Facing King/Twin)

  • Garden view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Classic Sea Facing Room (King/Twin)

A bedroom with a large bed, a nightstand, a chair, and a small table.

Classic Sea Facing Room (King/Twin)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)
  • Sea view
  • 291 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Luxury Sea Facing Room (King/Twin)

A bedroom with a bed, a nightstand, a lamp, and a view of a red lighthouse through a balcony.

Luxury Sea Facing Room (King/Twin)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sea view
  • 323 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Sea Facing Cabana (King)

A cozy room with a white sofa, a patterned ottoman, a small table with a cup and pastries, and a decorative cabinet.

Sea Facing Cabana (King)

  • Sea view
  • 388 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Sea Facing Family Room

A bathroom with a glass shower enclosure, a white sink, and a large mirror.

Sea Facing Family Room

  • Sea view
  • 388 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Twin Bed
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Luxury Sea Facing Suite

A hotel room with a large bed, wicker chairs, a desk with a mirror, and a view of the ocean.

Luxury Sea Facing Suite

  • Sea view
  • 592 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Deluxe Sea Facing Suite (King/Twin)

A bedroom with a bed, bedside tables, a chair, and a decorative screen.

Deluxe Sea Facing Suite (King/Twin)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sea view
  • 818 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Presidential Suite

A bathroom with a large bathtub, a vanity with a mirror, and a chair. There is a view of the ocean through large windows.

Presidential Suite

  • Sea view
  • 4844 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Superior Garden Villa (Non-Sea Facing King/Twin)

A spa area with a pool, lounge chairs, and a white wall.

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

  • Garden view
  • 1130 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Garden Villa Loft (Non-Sea Facing King/Twin)

A bedroom with a four-poster bed, a large mirror, bedside tables with lamps, and a view of the outdoors through a sliding glass door.

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

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 689 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Twin Bed
  • Free wired internet

View all photos for Junior Cabana (King)

A four-poster bed with a striped bedspread, a desk with a chair, a large mirror, and a dresser.

Junior Cabana (King)

  • Sea view
  • 388 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free wired internet

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About the neighborhood

Map
2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, 4320

What's nearby

  • Umhlanga Lighthouse - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Oceans Mall - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Umhlanga Main Beach - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Umhlanga Rocks Beach - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
  • 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

  • ‪Butcher boys - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪African Roots Coffee - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Doppio Zero - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Lord Prawn - ‬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 in a sun lounger, 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 mani/pedis. 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 travelers say good things about the helpful staff and overall property condition.

At a glance

Hotel size

    • 86 rooms
    • Arranged over 3 floors

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

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

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

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

Pets

    • Pets allowed (2 total)*
    • Service animals welcome
    • Specific rooms only; pet-friendly rooms can be requested by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation*
    • Food and water bowls available

Internet

    • Free WiFi in public areas
    • Free WiFi and wired internet access in rooms

Parking

    • Free onsite self parking
    • Free onsite valet parking
    • Wheelchair-accessible parking on site
    • Limited self and valet parking on site
    • Electric vehicle charging point on site

Transfers

    • Airport shuttle on request (available 24 hours)*

Other information

    • Designated smoking areas (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. Open daily.
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

Sustainability Certifications
This property is certified by this third-party sustainability certification scheme: EarthCheck. For more information on what this certification requires and verifies, please visit their website.
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 950.0 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

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.

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

Property class

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 2-minute walk from Umhlanga Lighthouse and 7 minutes' walk from Umhlanga Main Beach.

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Reviews

The Oyster Box Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.8

Cleanliness

9.4

Location

9.8

Staff & service

9.6

Property conditions & facilities

Guest review summary

What guests liked

  • Breakfast at the hotel was a feast, with a superb and varied spread that sets you up for the day. (8 reviews)
  • The restaurant offered delicious food, excellent service, and great value with a unique style and ambiance. (8 reviews)
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Popular mentions

Service staff
Room
Restaurant
Location
Food
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Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

Appreciated heated pools in winter
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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.
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

It was truly amazing. Everyone was very friendly
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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!
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

Great stay

Amazing hotel. Perfect location. Wonderful staff. Excellent restaurants.
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

The Oyster Box is an elegant, extraordinary property in a stunning location.
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

Old style hotel, with Raffles-like entrance, and excellent service. Wonderful buffet breakfast. Excellent grill room.
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

Wonderful stay

Absolutely super hotel. Excellent service all round. Incredible staff, lovely pool. Great restaurants. Grill room superb. Ideal location
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

Amazing people

Amazing staff! Great location! Exceptional Breakfast! Pool service amazing! See you soon old lady!
Verified review

8/10 Very good

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.
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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 .
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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,
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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.
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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.
Verified review

8/10 Very good

OB 2nd visit

Very good. Bar closed too early. No entertainment in the evenings. Dead!
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

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 !
Verified review

6/10 Good

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.
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

Wonderful stay, perfect time for our family
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

Everything was great!
Verified review

10/10 Exceptional

Everything about this hotel was excellent