Workaway in Durban

Durban

When the Cape Town winter gets you down it's time to head to Durban for the year-round tropical weather. We stayed for the month of August between Uhmlanga and Ballito and here's my list of where to eat, what to do and where to work.

September 2023
User Avatar Alexis
Harmonious Yenta

What to do in Uhmlanga

Uhmlanga

Description

  • Take a morning stroll on the promenade, grab a coffee at Rox (in front of the Lifesaving club) and take a dip at Granny's Pool
  • Don't miss a breakfast or freshly baked croissant at M&J
  • For views, be sure to grab drinks at the Lighthouse Bar at the famous Oyster Box Hotel or head to The Baron at the Arch
  • Other drink spots include Harry James Cocktail Bar and Sunsets and Mermaids
  • Try your hand at ceramic painting in the Granada centre

Tips on Safety
Uber/Taxi's Available
Visit Before Dark
Safe for Walking
Wifi Available
Kids Friendly

Where to Eat

Durban & Around

Description

My best foodie spots

  • Mitera for stunning decor and Mediterranean tapas, gyros and more! Must try
  • Lupa for warm service and comforting Italian
  • Seven Oceans - a totally unassuming takeaway spot. Order the B1. Stewed Beef & Handmade Noodle Soup, trust me...
  • Lunch at Shoots and Leaves
  • On Florida Road: Sofra & Dukkah
  • Col'Tempo Deli for lunch
  • A quirky spot called Poke Box with consistent 5 star Google ratings

Tips on Safety
Go by Car
Uber/Taxi's Available
Don't Carry Valuables
Pay Attention to Surroundings

Additional Safety Information
I wouldn't advise walking around Durban at night. So have transport planned out and be vigilant. I felt safe on the main Uhmlanga strip - my fiance and I walked to and from dinner most nights. Just don't stroll around past 10/11pm by yourself, especially if you're closer to Durban's city centre.

The Ballito Lifestyle Centre

Ballito Lifestyle Centre

Description

I love this centre for it's variety of foodie related activities. It's safe and clean and has options like Woolworths and quaint boutiques. Be sure not to miss:

  • The Red Velvet Cake from Chateaux Gateaux
  • A visit to The Market for fresh bread from Yoli's, Olives from Olives-A-Twist and lunch from La Sandwicheria
  • Do not miss dinner or lunch at Yori Oki Sushi & Grill
  • Get in touch with your creative side at The Pottery (Ceramic Painting Cafe)

    • Tips on Safety
    Go by Car
    Safe at Night
    Uber/Taxi's Available
    ATM's Nearby
    Safe for Walking
    Wifi Available
    Kids Friendly

    What to do in Ballito

    Ballito

    Description

    I love this little seaside town. It's slower and has that typical coastal feel. Here are my fav spots:

  • Visit Salt Cafe for pizza and the best croissants
  • Visit Thompsons Tidal pool to swim with the tropical fish
  • Whilst there, step through the magical rock arch to explore the secret beaches
  • Take a sunrise stroll along the Ballito Boardwalk
  • Book a treatment at Simbiosis Spa at Coco Boutique Hotel. A little slice of heaven hidden in the trees

    • Tips on Safety
    Safe at Night
    Uber/Taxi's Available
    Safe for Walking
    Kids Friendly

    What to do near the City Centre

    Durban

    Description

  • Visit the aquarium at uShaka Marine World
  • Hire bikes from Xpression Cafe and cycle the promenade. You can also hire surfboards here
  • The Durban Botanical Gardens is a donations based sanctuary within the city home to the largest collection of exotic plants that were brought in throughout the years along the trade route
  • The safest way to get a full glimpse of this bustling city is to book a Ricksha Bus Tour

    • Tips on Safety
    Go by Car
    Go in a group
    Visit Before Dark
    Don't Carry Valuables
    Pay Attention to Surroundings

    Additional Safety Information
    Disclaimer: Durban's city is not for the faint hearted. It's somewhat run down and you need to be vigilant for pick-pockets, but as a couple we felt safe along the promenade and the area close to uShaka Marine world. Durban is what you make of it.

    Coffee Spots

    Uhmlanga

    Description

    You will find so many places to choose from on Uhmlanga's main strip, but these are my tried and tested favs.

    • African Roots - great coffee and they make their own nostalgic anchovy toast
    • Tiki Tonga - the best quality coffee for active people
    • Seattle Coffee - a great little work spot with plug points and coffee on tap
    • M&J - A lovely little cafe with freshly baked breads and pastry and a great cafe style menu that fits into any part of the day

    Tips on Safety
    Visit Before Dark
    Safe for Walking
    Wifi Available
    Safe for Solo Missions

    More Coffee

    Durban City

    Description

    While I don't love staying too long in the hustle and bustle of Durban city centre, these are some great spots for a cuppa

    • Maha Coffee & Skyline Florida Rd for working spots
    • Humble Coffee, Berea or Florida Rd
    • Barn Owl Florida Rd
    • Love, Coffee
    • Colombo Coffee
    • Bike and Bean for a morning swim and egg roll
    • City Roast - they have a gorgeous flower shop next door
    • Glenwood bakery for delish pastries

    Tips on Safety
    Go by Car
    Visit Before Dark
    Don't Carry Valuables
    Account for Traffic
    Wifi Available
    Pay Attention to Surroundings

    Additional Safety Information
    I love the grunge and grit of Durban. But you do need to be aware of your surroundings as pick-pockets and beggars are abundant. If you're a nervous traveller stick the busier area of Florida Road. All the reccies on this list I have personally been to and would go back to. Just don't be flashy with your valuables and stay aware. Embrace the city for all its quirks.