Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Occupying a majestic location on the Umhlanga beachfront in KwaZulu-Natal province, The Oyster Box is one of South Africa’s most celebrated hotels, as famous for its remarkable coastal views as the understated luxury and gracious hospitality that have become the hallmarks of this cherished seaside destination. Set just 15 minutes’ drive from King Shaka International Airport, The Oyster Box offers an array of individually decorated rooms and suites, an award-winning spa set amid tropical gardens, and a mouth-watering menu of restaurants and bars.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to TGCSA - Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
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Nestled in a prime beachfront location with stunning ocean views, The Oyster Box garners high praise from guests for its inviting rooms, noted for their comfort and cleanliness, despite some finding them on the cozier side. The vibrant neighborhood adds to the appeal, offering ample dining and shopping.
While opinions on value vary, the hotel's exceptional service and luxurious amenities, including a spa and diverse dining options, are frequently celebrated. The Oyster Box's festive atmosphere and elegant decor leave a lasting impression on those who visit.
Location
Beachfront
Atmosphere
Inviting
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Meticulous
Service
Professional
Amenities
Opulent
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The Oyster Box never disappoints, we are repeat visitors to the property and the property quality and service is always outstanding. The rooms we stayed in has had a fresh paint, new wall artwork and the towels were fluffy and fresh. I always travel with my own pillow, the housekeeping washed the cover, pressed it and returned it to me at no additional cost.
The pool service and the staff around the pool is attentive, professional and quick with the orders. Two lovely gentlemen went out of their way to make our experience around the pool extra memorable, Sibonelo and Simphiwe.
Our only disappointment was no bubbly in the room on arrival any longer, all our years visiting a special touch was a cold bottle of bubbles in the room on arrival.
Thanks Oyster Box, keep it up, always such a treat to visit this premium property.
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Date of stay: January 2025Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 1 week ago
Dear Guest, Thank you for your loyal support and for sharing your experience. We’re delighted you enjoyed the refreshed rooms, attentive pool service, and thoughtful housekeeping touches. Your feedback regarding the bubbly is appreciated, and will be shared with our team. We look forward to welcoming you back for another memorable stay. Warm regards,
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A beautiful location and some very attentive staff, but some staff need further training and we experienced a number of niggles. We didn’t get off to a good start. First cocktail and food order in Lighthouse bar was not great. We left half our food, complained to waitress and she wasn’t really bothered but said she’d give feedback to chef. First night we didn’t realise there were blackout blinds behind shutters so couldn’t make room very dark. Ok, but worse, was being woken between 6 am and 7 by staff chatting and laughing loudly under our room. Room 101, is over a service passage, staff linger there before and during performing their tasks. We complained after first night but, receptionist not overly interested. We complained again after second night and we were sent a bottle of fizz to compensate - next morning it was better ( just once in our stay) but after that a 6.17 awakening. They need to tell staff that they are chatting ( it’s louder than chatting, it’s shouting) under a bedroom. I have never stayed anywhere where I was woken up by staff, before 6.30 am 😂 Other niggle, buffet had no small plates, I asked for one and was told by a manager ‘they are all in the washer’. I did mention this to the General Manager who immediately responded that this should never happen. So what is excellent - the breakfasts are best ever. Nicolene and Zodwa are superb. Also Noka Excellent pastry chef; lovely fresh oysters Room cleaning and turn down ladies are excellent. Cicelia was particularly delightful. Concierge staff are very helpful Room decor and facilities are excellent, albeit that room is rather narrow/small Staff are generally very eager to help. Albeit that some are attending to performative work, rather than getting the task done. Overall, a very lovely hotel. Would we return? Yes, just not to 101 😂
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Room 101 avoid
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 29 Dec 2023
Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to post your review following your stay at The Oyster Box. We are delighted you thoroughly enjoyed the oysters, our legendary breakfasts, the special decor and many facilities, and our service, generally. Thank you for mentioning our members of staff who stood out to you. We will be sure to share this review with the team so that your next stay is relaxing and comfortable! We look forward to welcoming you back soon! Kind regards Roberto Rosa General Manager
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Am never disappointed with our stays at this gem of a hotel. Is always consistently of the highest standard. From checkin to room service to food quality to ambience to understated luxury all the boxes always ticked. The pool area overlooking the lighthouse is always well managed to ensure quick service as well. The location in respect of proximity to restaurants and bars in the area is also very convenient. Will keep going back.
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 09 Jul 2023
Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to post your review following your stay with us at The Oyster Box. I am absolutely delighted to hear how you thoroughly enjoyed yourselves, in particular, the check-in, room service, delicious food and amazing ambience. Thank you for the special mention of the ocean-facing pool overlooking the lighthouse and quick service you experienced. It is wonderful that you are already planning a return visit and I look forward to welcoming you back. Kind regards, Roberto Rosa General Manager
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Steps from a beautiful beachside path that winds past a lighthouse and gardens to a nature ark, The Oyster Box is beautifully situated in Umhlanga Rocks with amazing views from rooms and restaurants. The rooms are cozy with everything you need for a luxurious stay, including in our case celebratory welcome balloons, cake and other snacks. We had one with a deep shady deck - perfect for whiling away the day watching the water. The whole building is charming - and has a beautiful secret courtyard with a pool, a wall of orchids and many little nooks for quiet contemplation. There is a lovely library and a top floor bar. There is a second pool tucked below the restaurant on the beach side so both have views. Speaking of the restaurant - we enjoyed spectacular meals there - breakfasts were amazing - the buffet supplemented by a pancake station with every imaginable topping (my favourite were the Italian cherries); lunches and dinners featured fresh seafood, impeccably presented. Throughout our stay, all the personnel made us feel like we were staying with old friends. I want to single out the art in the hotel - there are beautiful tile mosaics throughout the buildings and grounds, but also an outstanding collection of contemporary South African art. Even if you don’t go up there for a drink, it is well worth exploring the top floor and indeed all the public gallery spaces.
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Date of stay: October 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Well worth getting an ocean view room - and even when the beachside pool gets busy the inner...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing such a detailed and glowing review. We’re delighted you enjoyed the charm of our setting, the luxurious touches in your room, and the peaceful nooks throughout the hotel. It’s wonderful to hear how much you appreciated the art, views, and exceptional dining experiences. Your kind words about the warm hospitality mean so much to us. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable stay at The Oyster Box. Warm regards,
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We recently visited the OBH to celebrate my mother’s 80th birthday. I knew it would be special but the Oyster Box went above and beyond to make this a truly magical and spectacular experience!
From delectable in-room chocolate cakes, champagne & wine we were spoiled with more treats than we could consume! Every little detail was attended to and made extra special.
The breakfast offering is truly world-class and the High Tea the best in the country as far as I am concerned.
The attentiveness shown by the staff is exceptional and nothing is too much trouble. A special thank you to Michelle, Ryan at breakfast and Richard in the foyer for amazing service. You are part of a team of professionals that the OBH can be proud of.
Even the celebrity cat, Skabenga, allowed us to pat him and he even purred!
We travelled extensively abroad and in SA and I can honestly say that the OBH is proudly flying the South African flag high in terms of value for money, overall quality & service excellence.
I am SO glad I chose the Oyster Box for this occasion and our family decided that the OBH will be the one and only place to celebrate landmark occasions in the future!
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Date of stay: June 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 21 Jun 2024
Dear Guest, Thank you for choosing to celebrate your mother's 80th birthday and for sharing such a heartfelt review of your experience. It is a delight to hear that we were able to make this special occasion truly magical for you and your family. Your kind words about our in-room treats, breakfast offering & High Tea are greatly appreciated. I will be sure to share your wonderful words with the team and especially with those you have mentioned by name. We will also be sure to give Skabenga an extra pat for his purring welcome! It is heartwarming to be your preferred choice for celebrating landmark occasions and we look forward to welcoming you and your family back for many more memorable experiences. Warm regards
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Love the hotel and in particular - the wonderful staff who, without exception, are both efficient and cheerful. So much better when those two qualities work together. The breakfast buffet is one of the best we have ever experienced and the evening food in the Ocean Terrace was very good. We felt that The Grill Room was a little dated and the dishes we consumed were just ok rather than memorable. Maybe a new restaurant concept is needed. Our only negative observation is the unprecedented way that the hotel very cleverly earns extra income from the guests via their deposit system. When you arrive you are charged 2,000 rand per night as a deposit against incidental expenditure. So, assuming the hotel has close to full occupancy, that adds up to around £250k a month temporarily deposited in their bank account. Most hotels will take a credit card impression when you arrive, but I’ve not had a deposit taken before, which is immediately taken from your account. I could live with that but when you leave you are actually charged again for your incidental expenses and it is not deducted from your initial deposit. So in our case, staying for 5 nights meant an initial deposit of almost £500 and then an additional charge of £250 on leaving. I queried this by email after returning home and was told by the Front Office Manager that the original deposit would be returned within 14 days!! I pointed out that in today’s world, money can be transferred instantly and doesn’t need to take two weeks! I’m not sure whether the term usery applies, but it’s certainly a very clever way to earn additional income from holding guests’ funds in high earning deposit accounts. Apart from that - a great place to stay!
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 25 Oct 2023
Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to post your review following your stay with us at The Oyster Box. I am thrilled to hear how you thoroughly enjoyed yourselves, in particular the amazing breakfast buffet. Thank you for your mention of the incredible hospitality from the staff who are passionate about ensuring every guest’s stay with us is amazing and that every guest leaves wanting to return. With regards to your comments on the deposit, we do not actually receive the R2 000. It is just blocked on your account. We do not take credit card impressions anymore, as this is not permitted due to it being against the POPI act and PCI regulations. The time frame given to us from the bank for refunds is 7 to 10 working days. We do not earn anything from holds on transactions, it is a standard practice which Hotels, Car Rentals etc use, the money is blocked, not transferred. We ask the bank to release the hold and that’s what takes so long. Nedbank do it immediately, it’s the issuing bank that will take the time, as they need to clear all regulations on transactions. I’m sorry you felt we were trying to earn extra income, but trust that the above explanation will settle your mind on our policies. Kind regards, Roberto Rosa General Manager
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We went for lunch on the verandah without a booking. On arrival, there were plenty empty tables, a few with reserved signs but at 1.35 pm , mostly empty. Our request to lunch on the verandah was very strongly refused and the reason given was that there were bookings but that the guests had a 3 hour window to arrive or not as they chose. The tables would be empty advised Hazel. Dejectedly we went inside a rather cold room with no people and no view. Enter Justin, a dashing smiling hero who on hearing our rejected request for an outside table, performed a miracle and we were escorted to a front row table with an amazing view of the lighthouses coast. Justin was everything you expect from a F and B manager in a 5 star hotel. Courteous, charming, attentive but not overwhelming, Justin ensured that we felt very special and he made my lunch with close friends an exceptional memory. The food was great as well. Justin would be a great asset here in Singapore and he has my very grateful thanks. If you go to the Oyster Box in Umhlanga Rocks for a meal, ask for Justin
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Date of stay: October 2024Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 30 Oct 2024
Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We’re glad to hear that Justin stepped in to make your lunch truly memorable, ensuring you enjoyed both the view and the atmosphere. It’s always our goal to offer our guests the best possible experience, and Justin’s exceptional service truly reflects this. Your kind words will be shared with him and the team, and we hope to welcome you back for more memorable moments at The Oyster Box. Warm regards,
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The Oyster Box lives up to its iconic reputation. Just a 15 min taxi ride from Durban airport and in a prime position in an upmarket area, it benefits from great sea views and proximity to the boardwalk. Our room looked out towards the lighthouse and had lovely balcony furnished with comfortable wicker arm chairs. The rooms are not very big, as you would expect in an older hotel, but well furnished and with beautiful white bed linen. We travel light so there was plenty of cupboard space for us. The bathroom was spotless but quite old with a shower over the bath. The public rooms are just beautiful and the terrace restaurant a wonderful place to eat breakfast - despite the attentions of the monkeys which were ever ready to snatch your food! Breakfast itself was outstanding with a huge selection of hot and cold dishes, both on the buffet and to order. There are two swimming pools, both attractive and well staffed. And the negatives? Not many, but do be aware that there are steps to negotiate given the age of the property and we were disappointed with the restaurants dinner service - but it is just a very short walk out to local restaurants. A very enjoyable stay.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 09 Oct 2023
Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to post your review following your stay with us at The Oyster Box. I am thrilled to hear how you thoroughly enjoyed yourselves, in particular the stunning location overlooking the ocean and proximity to the boardwalk. Thank you too for the special mention of the beautiful public rooms and outstanding breakfasts. I look forward to welcoming you back in the not-too-distant future. Kind regards, Roberto Rosa General Manager
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We had a short weekend vacation at The Oyster Box Hotel. We were welcomed and checked in by Uriel at the front desk and from the time we arrived on Friday to the time we checked out on Sunday, (also by Uriel) we were treated to the best service by all OBH staff. The room was amazing with the best sea view and brought back some wonderful childhood memories of the lighthouse. After the long covid lockdown, the vitamin sea was amazing. We arrived late on Friday so room service for dinner it was. The burger, bacon and haloumi were all scrumptious. The breakfast over the next two days was also divine and one is spoilt for choice- oysters and sparkling wine a definite win! The kids were surprised with backpacks filled with awesome goodies and off we went to the beach. Although swimming in the beaches were closed, we played in the sand a bit and the kids buckets and spades were a hit. The time came for some swimming and the kids absolutely loved playing with the beach balls in the pool in the beautiful garden area. It was so quiet and peaceful. In the afternoon, the kids enjoyed their time with Candice and Petronella at the children’s playroom. They actually did not want to leave. Off to the main pool for more swimming, overlooking the beach with that infinity pool feel and the iconic lighthouse in the background, before heading back to the room to clean up for dinner at the ocean terrace. The curry buffet was absolutely amazing with a wide variety of curries available, once is again, one is definitely spoilt for choice. Unfortunately I tried to make a booking at the spa but they were fully booked and I don’t blame them! I’m sure that would have been a hit too! That just means a longer stay next time. Thank you OBH! It was amazing! The best part was my kids absolutely loved the resident cat, Skabenga!
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Date of stay: October 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Room 215 is a family room and has an amazing sea view. Book your spa treatments early to avoid...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 12 Oct 2022
Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to post your review following your stay at The Oyster Box. I am absolutely thrilled to hear how you were blown away by the amazing service you received from the staff. Thank you for the special mention of Uriel, Candice, and Petronella I will be sure to share your comments with the team. Our staff are passionate about ensuring every guest's stay with us is amazing and that every guest leaves wanting to return. I look forward to welcoming you back in the near future. Kind regards, Roberto Rosa General Manager
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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.
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Date of stay: January 2024
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Roberto Rosa, General Manager at The Oyster Box
Responded 29 Jul 2024
Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your delightful experience at The Oyster Box! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the Colonial charm of our hotel and the array of facilities we offer. It's wonderful to know that our High Tea in the Palm Court left a lasting impression. Your kind words about our culinary offerings and ambiance are greatly appreciated. We hope to welcome you back for another memorable experience. Warm regards
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Dear Guest,
Thank you for your enquiry.
There are only two chairs on the balcony as the area is narrow.
Please enquire with our reservations team for further options as we offer a variety of accommodation where the balconies are larger.
Kind regards,
Roberto Rosa
General Manager
It is fairly expensive, about $30 USD each, but the quantity, variety, and quality are impressive. It would be worth it but bring an appetite. Hope this helps.
Martin James
Thank you for your enquiry. The garden villa loft room can accommodate two adults and one child under the age of 12 years. Your alternative is to take two rooms or a family room or a Superior Garden Villa to accommodate two adults and two children aged 9 and 5. Please enquire with our reservations team for availability.
Dear Guest,
Thank you for your question. I am delighted to advise that we are pet friendly. We have rooms designated for guests where the dogs will sleep as well. We also offer pet menus. Please enquire with our Reservations Team and they will advise of the availability of the particular rooms. The only restaurant in which animals are not permitted, is the fine-dining
Grill Room. I look forward to welcoming you and your dog to the hotel soon.
Kind regards,
Roberto Rosa,
General Manager
Dear TInaSueWP,
Thank you for reaching out. Of course you can. I would recommend though you book in advance as the various Restaurants are extremely popular.
Kind regards
Desmond
General Manager
There are more places to choose from in the Umhlanga Rocks area.
PRICE RANGE
R 7,229 - R 9,601 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
oyster box umhlanga rocks
LOCATION
South AfricaKwaZulu-NatalUmhlanga Rocks
NUMBER OF ROOMS
86
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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