Name: The Oyster Box
Address: 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks, uMhlanga, Durban, South Africa, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA
Price range: US$361–US$775 per night
Rating: 9.5

What guests think

Across the reviews, The Oyster Box stands out for exceptionally friendly, attentive service, a scenic beachfront location, and memorable dining—especially breakfast and The Grill—while rooms are generally comfortable with sea views, though one guest found them small and dated.

Many also highlight the pool and spa, though a few mention early closing hours at the bar or restaurants. Feedback on cleanliness is mostly positive, but isolated issues include pests in a room and unchecked in-room fruit, and one reviewer reported a poor booking or check-in experience. Overall, expect a classic, high-service beachfront stay with standout breakfasts and refined ambience.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Guests praise the pool area; the spa also receives positive mention. A few mention early closing hours at the bar or restaurants.

Related guest reviews

10

Rehandre

7 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

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

6

Yegan

10 Mar 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

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 The set up is old and outdated with take away from the appeal of the hotel.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.

10

julie

15 Dec 2024

·

Stayed 6 nights

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 .

10

julie

31 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 7 nights

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 !

10

Judith

17 Feb 2026

·

Stayed 10 nights

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

8

Peter

16 Feb 2025

·

Stayed 7 nights

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

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Cleanliness

Overall cleanliness is praised by some, but a few report lapses such as insects in a room and unchecked in-room fruit.

Related guest reviews

6

Yegan

10 Mar 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

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.

10

Pedro

6 Sept 2023

·

Stayed 6 nights

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,

8

Adrian

11 Nov 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Its was good however the fruit that was placed in the room was not checked.

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Rooms

Rooms are generally comfortable and beautifully decorated, with many enjoying sea-facing views and cozy beds. One reviewer found the rooms small and dated.

Related guest reviews

6

Yegan

10 Mar 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

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.

10

Ferial

11 May 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

It was a short stay both times, so we were unable to use the amenities, however we still had an absolutely amazing stay. Staff and service were exceptional, they were very friendly and always ready to assist, and go over and above. The rooms are beautiful, very comfortable and cater to all needs and they made a special surprise for us when we got to the room for our anniversary celebration. We had a sea-facing room which was absolutely stunning to wake up to the sound of the waves and go to sleep to the same. Food was delicious, and the oyster and sparkling wine breakfast buffet was absolutely delicious and catered to every taste. Definitely worth staying there. We would love to go back!

10

paul

16 Nov 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

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!

10

Shirley

12 May 2023

·

Stayed 5 nights

The Oyster Box is one of my favourite hotels. The decor is beautiful and the ambiance warm and welcoming. The staff are attentive, helpful and pleasant giving excellent service. As usual the meals we had in the restaurants were delicious. All round another wonderful stay.

10

David

13 Apr 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

This is one of the finest hotels we have ever stayed. I couldn't recommend more. Room/view was fabulous. Food exceptional and the staff superb.

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Service

Service is consistently praised as friendly, attentive, and professional across the hotel, with special mentions for The Grill team and pool and front-desk staff. One reviewer reported a poor booking or check-in experience.

Related guest reviews

10

Peter

27 Nov 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

It was truly amazing. Everyone was very friendly

10

Judith

14 Feb 2025

·

Stayed 6 nights

Just love the hotel. Super efficient, professional, friendly staff. Always so polite, courteous. Nothing is too much trouble. Good position. Would thoroughly recommend

10

Rehandre

7 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

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

10

Lauren

2 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

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

10

paul

16 Nov 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

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!

10

Donald H

30 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

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

10

julie

31 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 7 nights

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 !

10

Judith

17 Feb 2026

·

Stayed 10 nights

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

10

Martin

18 Feb 2026

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful hotel in a wonderful location with top class service. Like Raffles in South Africa.

8

Michelle

27 Oct 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

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.

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Location

The beachfront location with lighthouse and Indian Ocean views is widely loved, and guests consider it a great base in the Durban area.

Related guest reviews

10

Judith

14 Feb 2025

·

Stayed 6 nights

Just love the hotel. Super efficient, professional, friendly staff. Always so polite, courteous. Nothing is too much trouble. Good position. Would thoroughly recommend

10

Rehandre

7 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

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

10

Stuart

13 Sept 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

This is the best hotel in the greater Durban metropolitan area.

10

Ferial

11 May 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

It was a short stay both times, so we were unable to use the amenities, however we still had an absolutely amazing stay. Staff and service were exceptional, they were very friendly and always ready to assist, and go over and above. The rooms are beautiful, very comfortable and cater to all needs and they made a special surprise for us when we got to the room for our anniversary celebration. We had a sea-facing room which was absolutely stunning to wake up to the sound of the waves and go to sleep to the same. Food was delicious, and the oyster and sparkling wine breakfast buffet was absolutely delicious and catered to every taste. Definitely worth staying there. We would love to go back!

10

julie

31 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 7 nights

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 !

10

Phyllis

19 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

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

10

Martin

18 Feb 2026

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful hotel in a wonderful location with top class service. Like Raffles in South Africa.

10

David

13 Apr 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

This is one of the finest hotels we have ever stayed. I couldn't recommend more. Room/view was fabulous. Food exceptional and the staff superb.

10

Nicholas

13 Sept 2023

·

Stayed 7 nights

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.

10

Manon

22 Jan 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

The hotel is idyllic, and the staff is very friendly. The location on the beach with a view of the light house is amazing. Just a great place to stay!

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Dining

Dining is widely praised, especially the extensive breakfast and The Grill; food is often described as delicious with strong service. A few mention early closing hours for the bar or restaurants.

Related guest reviews

10

JUSTIN

16 Dec 2022

·

Stayed 4 nights

Amazing. The staff are charming and professional ! Breakfast is a feast And the hotel is stunning

10

Rehandre

7 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

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

6

Yegan

10 Mar 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

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.

10

julie

15 Dec 2024

·

Stayed 6 nights

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 .

10

paul

16 Nov 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

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!

10

Donald H

30 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

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

10

Judith

17 Feb 2026

·

Stayed 10 nights

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

10

Shirley

12 May 2023

·

Stayed 5 nights

The Oyster Box is one of my favourite hotels. The decor is beautiful and the ambiance warm and welcoming. The staff are attentive, helpful and pleasant giving excellent service. As usual the meals we had in the restaurants were delicious. All round another wonderful stay.

10

Nicholas

7 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 8 nights

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.

10

Nicholas

13 Sept 2023

·

Stayed 7 nights

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.

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Month	Average price
January	US$523
February	US$407
March	US$479
April	US$560
May	US$515
June	US$517
July	US$488
August	US$477
September	US$470
October	US$459
November	US$492
December	US$689

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
		1	2	3	4	5 $459
6 $455	7 $455	8 $457	9 $451	10 $450	11 $459	12 $461
13 $457	14 $453	15 $451	16 $457	17 $451	18 $486	19 $527
20 $457	21 $520	22 $457	23 $457	24 $775	25 $527	26 $527
27 $457	28 $457	29 $518	30 $476

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1 $457	2 $456	3 $464
4 $416	5 $730	6 $430	7 $430	8 $430	9 $482	10 $437
11 $366	12 $430	13 $418	14 $366	15 $425	16 $371	17 $437
18 $430	19 $416	20 $366	21 $366	22 $430	23 $437	24 $371
25 $361	26 $430	27 $366	28 $366	29 $366	30 $437	31 $371

Select dates to see prices and availability

Monthly average prices

About this property

Location

Guest reviews

Exceptional

Who stays here?

What guests think

Property policies

Check-in instructions

Security deposit

Good to know

Optional extras

FAQs about The Oyster Box

Have a question?

Prices for upcoming dates