The Oyster Box | Umhlanga
Standing proud on Umhlanga’s beachfront, overlooking the historical Umhlanga lighthouse, The Oyster Box has long been one of South Africa’s best-loved and most distinguished hotels. This 86-room hotel is renowned for its generous hospitality, attentive service and exceptional cuisine. The elegant rooms, decorated with antiques, feature private balconies (many with sea views), flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, tea and coffeemaking facilities, and fresh fruit and flowers. Suites add separate lounges; some have private plunge pools. There's a complimentary buffet breakfast, a fine-dining restaurant and multiple eateries/bars. Other amenities include a spa with a hammam, an oceanfront outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness centre. There's also a 24-seat cinema and a kids' activity programme.
The elegant Classic Garden Facing Rooms, all overlook the hotel’s lush, tranquil gardens.
Each charming Classic Sea Facing Room has a balcony that opens on to uninterrupted views of Umhlanga’s historic lighthouse and KwaZulu Natal’s breath-taking coastline. These rooms have a bath or shower and a single vanity.
Our beautifully appointed Luxury Sea Facing Rooms each offer a balcony that opens on to uninterrupted views of Umhlanga’s historic lighthouse and KwaZulu Natal’s breath-taking coastline. All rooms offer a double vanity feature in the bathrooms along with spacious separate shower and bath.
These beautiful Junior Cabanas are located on the lower ground level with stunning sea views and leading out onto the grassed area in front. All rooms consists of a four-poster king bed with an en-suite bathroom offering a shower and single vanity.
The stunning Sea Facing Cabanas present gorgeous king size Four Poster beds and are all located on the lower ground floor, boasting individual spacious balcony terraces and exceptional beachfront views.
The Oyster Box is designed for the absolute comfort of each family. There are 5 private Sea Facing Family Rooms, each with not only a master bedroom, but an additional room or loft for the younger members of the family.
Individually decorated, all of the striking and eclectic Sea Facing Suites comprise of one well-appointed bedroom with a lavish separate lounge
Individually decorated, the Sea Facing Deluxe Suites comprise of one bedroom with a luxurious separate lounge. The Deluxe suites are located on the lower ground and boast their own private plunge pools and terrace.
These spectacular Superior Garden Villas are nestled in the hotel’s lush gardens and all have an inviting private plunge pool, terrace, gorgeous lounge, complimented by a bar and an opulent spacious bathroom. 4 of the 8 villas can be converted into a 2 bed-roomed villa by reserving an additional Garden Villa Lofts.
Our pretty garden-facing Garden Villa Loft Rooms are available as separate accommodation or, with the combination of a Superior Garden Villa, ideal for the out-and-about visitor. Each room is individually and superbly decorated. All Garden Villa rooms offer a 4-charming king size Poster Bed and ample space.
The epitome of indulgence; this grandeur and stylish Presidential Suite is split over two exquisitely decorated levels and boasts a private elevator. The extravagantly decorated master bedroom includes a relaxing seating area and an intimate personal study. There are two lavish marble bathrooms – his and hers. Unparalleled sea views complimented by opulence and tranquillity beyond compare. Other incomparable features of this gracious suit include a private rim-flow swimming pool, an elegant lounge, and a tasteful dining room with seating for 8 guests, complimented further by a bar and a beautifully equipped kitchen. There is also an additional bedroom. This unrivalled décor incorporates white timber floors and marble and white Caesar stone.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Business Centre, Conference Centre, Disability Services, Gym, Internet Access, Kiddies Club, Library, Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Heated Towel Rails, Heater, Internet, Mini Bar, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle, Babysitting Service, Chauffer Service, Credit Card Facilities, Foreign Exchange, Laundry Service, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Cooking Courses, Fine Dining, High Tea, Massages, Walks
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Battlefield Tours, Beach, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Canoeing, Child Friendly Activities, Cooking Courses, Cultural Tours, Cycling, Deep Sea Fishing, Fishing, Game Viewing, General Sightseeing, Golf, Health and Fitness Centre, Helicopter Rides, Hiking, Historical Tours, Horse Riding, Jet Skis, Kayaking / Paddling, Mini Golf, Mountain Biking, Museums, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Squash Court, Surfing, Tennis Court, Windsurfing, Wine Tasting
If you’re a foodie looking for something a little ‘out of the ordinary’, need a unique event menu, or are keen to impress somebody special - then don’t miss the opportunity to take a front row seat with Executive Chef Kevin Joseph and his ace Team, for an extraordinary dining experience at The Chef’s Table in The Kitchen at The Oyster Box.
Your evening begins in the elegant Oyster Bar with pre-dinner drinks and live music from our resident musician, before being taken ‘behind the scenes’ where your culinary journey begins, with a tour of the working kitchen and your amuse bouche of Champagne and Canapes.
As the drama of this busy kitchen in ‘full service’ mode unfolds, watch as the Chefs prepare a delicious 5-course paired menu before your eyes. The Chef’s Table is available for groups of between six and 10 guests, from from Monday to Sunday for Dinner only.
Direct beach access to a swimming beach
Children between the ages of four and 12 years, have access to the supervised Holiday Club during their stay. .
Other vacation activities include story-telling, face painting, art and craft activities, pizza-making and movie screenings. Special programmes are offered during peak periods such as school holidays, Easter, Christmas and New Year.
The Holiday Club is open daily from 10h00 to 19h00
For a more intimate dining experience, the Wine Cellar, with its glass ceiling, is sunken just below the Oyster Bar and is unique for dinner parties, corporate functions, tastings or special events and offers a Chef’s Table for up to 10 guests.
Bespoke menus are created for every occasion and the resident Sommelier will present a selection of wines from the Diners Club Diamond award-winning wine list, which boasts the finest selection of South African and international vintages.
An intimate, 24-seater cinema/screening room is available to hotel guests. Each month a new schedule is set, running a new movie five times a day (10h00, 14h00, 18h00, 20h00 and 22h00).
24 hour access
We are dedicated to restoring beauty and balance through individual treatments and spa journeys, personalised for each of our guests by exceptionally skilled therapists. Our commitment to wellbeing focuses on holistic principles, combining ancient wisdom and modern expertise.
The Spa at The Oyster Box uses a variety of internationally-recognised treatment products as well as its own exclusive, signature range of all natural, body-care products and professional spa treatments B|Africa. This deluxe range combines indigenous African plant extracts and the natural goodness of West Coast Atlantic sea-salts.
B| Africa uses sustainable harvesting practices on renewable indigenous species, such as oil from the baobab tree, marula oil, avocado butter, honey, rooibos, Mongongo nut and Ximenia kernel oil. In addition, the range includes carefully-crafted B|Africa Spa treatment packages.
Our state of the art, 24 hour complimentary Business Centre, located on the first floor adjacent to the cinema, is available to all hotel guests. There are two desks, each with a computer, printer and a refreshment station offering thoughtful details such as dried fruit and mineral water, as well as tea and coffee on request. The Business Centre offers complimentary internet and the entire hotel has complimentary wireless Internet if you prefer to work from your room. The Business Centre also has a fax, black and white photocopier and secretarial services as available on request. Shipping and packaging, laminating and binding can be arranged directly with our concierge deck at an additional cost.
Clock Library
The legendary Grill Room has been renowned for its fine dining and outstanding cuisine for almost 70 years.
The menu is an inspired combination of classic favourites, created by Bea Tollman, president and founder of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, the restaurant’s Signature Dishes and contemporary creations, inspired by current global trends.
Classic Grill Room touches include the authentic Gueridon service, where food is prepared and presented at the individual diner’s table and the Classic 1920’s Hors d’ Oeuvres Trolley, with an extensive range of 18 ‘old world’ appetizers.
The beautiful Ocean Terrace restaurant, with gorgeous views across the Indian Ocean, serves a Bistro-style menu and is perfect for casual, al fresco and family dining. With something to suit every palate favourite dishes include freshly baked pizzas from the wood-fire pizza oven, sustainably sourced seafood and a host of perennial favourites such as fish and chips. The Ocean Terrace also serves a delicious English Breakfast daily, as well as an a la carte menu for lunch and dinner.
Also on offer in the Ocean Terrace, the incredible Curry Buffet, including authentic Tandoori Chicken, continues to attract fans from far and wide. Using delicate hand-blended combinations of spices and fresh herbs, the extensive selection of Curries includes, meat, fish and vegetarian option - making each curry a masterpiece!
The Ocean Terrace is also the perfect backdrop for a relaxed sundowner overlooking the rim flow pool and sea.
Inspired by The Oyster Box’s original, colonial architecture with four magnificent tole and ceramic chandeliers purchased from the Savoy Hotel in London, natural sunlight and towering Palms, The Palm Court is the venue for the legendary High Tea each afternoon. It’s also a favourite meeting spot for casual dining and the ideal place to enjoy the Evening Indulgence treat.
High Tea is a lengthy, leisurely affair with live piano music a welcome addition to the occasion. All pastries and baked goods are prepared on the property by executive pastry chef, Joanita Venter and her team. The high tea table is a visual and taste spectacle of sumptuous treats, with everything from freshly baked scones, pastries, quiches and cakes, to finger sandwiches and savouries.
Richly inviting with its dark wooden panels and details in leather, crimson and gold, the Lighthouse Bar has a large terrace for spectacular views of the iconic lighthouse and the Indian Ocean. With live music, delicious light snack meals and exotic cocktails, this is the hottest bar in KwaZulu-Natal.
Overlooking the infinity pool and Indian Ocean, the stylish Oyster Bar specialises in Champagne and Oysters, freshly harvested from our own Oyster beds and also offers a light menu, delicious cocktails and live music.
This authentic old world bar is full of charm and character. It has remained a firm favourite with the locals for over 40 years, serving delicious hearty snacks and the finest selection of whiskeys, beers and cigars.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Your Rooms
Fast Facts
5 Star
Hotel
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, Zulu
No. Rooms: 86
Special Interests: Beach / Coastal, Birding, Fishing, Golf, Gourmet, History & Culture, Leisure, Relaxation, Shopping, Watersports, Wine
Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge | Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park
Established to protect the previously endangered white rhino, , Hluhluwe iMfolozi Game Reserve is a triumph of conservation efforts. Celebrate this legacy in exclusive luxury at Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge - the only private lodge in the reserve - offering exceptional safari experiences in the heart of Big 5 territory. 18 well appointed, air-conditioned rooms nestle on a ridge, each with their own private deck giving expansive and uninterrupted views of the reserve. The lodge, built in 2015, is designed in a contemporary style with overtones of organic forms utilising natural finishes and materials.
Safari / Family Rooms (2 en-suite rooms with common lobby) twin/dbl.
These rooms can double as Family Rooms given that they share a common lobby.
Twin Vanity and luxurious shower. Separate toilet.
King size bed or twin beds, en-suite bathroom, separate toilet, deep soaking bath, luxurious shower and private wooden deck, mini-bar, fireplace. Overhead fan and air conditioner. Safe, hairdryer and tea and coffee making facilities.
King size bed or twin beds, en-suite bathroom, separate toilet, deep soaking bath, luxurious shower and private wooden deck, mini-bar, fireplace, private plunge pool. Overhead fan and air conditioner. Bathrobes, safe, hairdryer as well as tea and coffee making facilities. Beautiful views over the park.
Home Stays
Spend the night in a traditional working Zulu home.
2 x Bedrooms with twin mattress on the floor. Bedding and towels supplied
Bucket shower and separate chemical toilet.
Join in with the daily activities of the family
MealsTraditional home cooked dinner and breakfast consisting of porridge
(phutu - maizemeal), hard boiled eggs,, fruit and yoghurt.
DrinksTraditional Zulu Beer , water and Soft Drinks in the evening.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Conference Centre, Eco Friendly, Laundry Service (Available), Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Hair Dryer, Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Beach, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Cultural Tours, Deep Sea Fishing, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Hiking, Historical Tours, Marine Adventures, Safaris, Snorkeling, Turtle Tracking, Walks (Guided), Whale Watching
Twice daily game drives are conducted to explore the magnificent hills and valleys of the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. Nothing is predictable in the bush; therefore each safari offers a potentially new and unique experience. Our guides will share their wealth of bush experience which involves the identifications of animals, trees, grasses, insects and birds. The medicinal uses of plants and local folk lore is also discussed as well as looking for the ever fascinating Big 5!
Guests can enjoy guided walks lasting 3-4 hours inside the park in Big 5 territory. No children under 14 years. Additional cost.
Treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment - extra cost.
Visits into the local Mpembeni Community are offered as well as a visit to the Isibindi Foundation community centre.
Dining Room
All meals included. Continental Buffet and hot breatkast available from 07h00 to 11h00, High Tea and delicious dinners.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Your Rooms
Fast Facts
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, Zulu
No. Rooms: 18
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Alternative Accommodation
Thonga Beach Lodge | Maputaland Marine Protected Area
Thonga Beach Lodge is set on the pristine shores of the Maputuland Coast, KwaZulu-Natal. This 24 bed luxury lodge is the ideal place to discover one of Africa’s last unspoilt wilderness beaches. It is a magical place of coastal forests, grasslands, bush, shimmering lakes and exquisite sandy beaches. Its crystal clear, warm waters offer South Africa’s best snorkelling and excellent off-shore SCUBA diving and excellent birding opportunities. Guided birding, scorpion & spider walks & Turtle Tracking are offered in season. The 12 thatched bush suites offer either Ocean or Forest Views with Deluxe Ocean Views room sporting private plunge pools. The suites are positioned to afford maximum privacy & minimal environmental impact. Excellent cuisine is enjoyed al fresco on the dining deck or beach deck overlooking the sea. This is an ideal choice for honeymooners, families, SCUBA divers or anyone who wants to simply relax. A civilized distance from civilization.
Double or Twin Ocean View Room , double vanity, shower, mini bar and tea and coffee making facilities. Rooms are air-conditioned,overhead fans, mosquito nets, safes and hair dryers.
Double or Twin Forest View Room , double vanity, shower, mini bar and tea and coffee making facilities. Rooms are air-conditioned,overhead fans, mosquito nets, safes and hair dryers.
The rooms are nestled into the Dune Forest.
Double or Twin Ocean View Room , double vanity, bath, indoor and outdoor shower, mini bar and tea and coffee making facilities. Rooms are air-conditioned,overhead fans, mosquito nets, safes and hair dryers. This suite has a private plunge pool on a private deck.
Family forest view comprises two bedrooms both en-suite (main bedroom has bath & shower, double vanity and toilet), second bedroom has shower only, single vanity and toilet. The two bedrooms are linked by a passage way, Both bedrooms have separate entrances.safe.
Both bedrooms are air conditioned, have overhead fans and mosquito nets. The main bedroom has a mini bar, tea & coffee making facilities, hair dryer and safe.
This luxury family room comprises two bedrooms both en-suite (main bedroom has bath & shower, double vanity and toilet and an outside shower). The second bedroom has a shower only, single vanity and toilet. The two bedrooms are separated by a large deck with private plunge pool. Both bedrooms have separate entrances.
Both bedrooms are air conditioned, have overhead fans and mosquito nets. The main bedroom has a mini bar, safe, hair dryer and tea and coffee making facilities.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Laundry Service (Available), Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fine Dining, High Tea, Kayaking, Massages, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Turtle Tracking, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Whale Watching
Activities Nearby
Beach, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Canoeing, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Deep Sea Fishing, Fishing, Game Drives, Kayaking / Paddling, Sea Kayaking, Snorkeling, Surfing, Turtle Tracking, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Whale Watching
SCUBA diving at Mabibi is phenomenal. Our professional lodge diving team can accommodate enthusiasts, from the beginner to the veteran. For those who don't dive, we have an Open Ocean Experience. An exciting launch through the surf in front of the lodge takes you beyond the breakers to a world of dolphins, whales and many other creatures. The warm Indian Ocean supports a myriad of fish and marine life.
Guests can sometimes swim with dolphins or whale sharks, or snorkel with Manta rays and giant turtles. Scuba Diving and ocean experience are at an extra cost.
Daily guided snorkeling is done a 5 minute walk away from the Lodge at low tide in our beautiful rock pools. Guided snorkelling is included in the rate.
In summer there are nocturnal walks and drives along the beach in search of pre-historic turtles laying their eggs. Witness the culmination of an incredible journey as giant Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in carefully prepared nests.
Turtle tracking is offered in the evening from November to end of February. The turtles lay their eggs from November to February. Hatchlings arrive from end December to end February.
Every precaution is taken to ensure these magnificent creatures are not disturbed during the laying process and data collected from the turtle drives is submitted to the Ezemvelo Turtle Monitoring program.
Turtle walks take place 3 times a week and are included in the rate.
Nightly turtle tracking in 4x4 vehicle is at an extra cost.
Open Ocean Experience. An exciting launch through the surf in front of the lodge takes you beyond the breakers to a world of dolphins, whales and many other creatures. The warm Indian Ocean supports a myriad of fish and marine life.
Guests can sometimes swim with dolphins or snorkel with Manta rays and giant turtles
Ocean Experience is an extra charge.
A leisurely drive along the lake shore looking for Hippo's , Birds and Crocodiles, then surrounded by the magical sounds of dusk settle with a drink to watch the sunset over the lake. Sundowners are Included in the rate, with either a glass of house wine, cider, local beer or soft drink per person.
Daily tours are on offer to visit the local rural Community of Mabibi. This includes a visit to the clinic and the school, as well as a homestead visit. Optional is to include a visit to the local Sangoma (witch doctor), which may incur a cost.
Standard tours are included in the rate.
Relax with a soothing treatment in the Sea Spa - extra charge.
Daily guided walks through the indigenous dune forest, where the local guides share their knowledge of the flora and fauna. This activity is included in the rate.
Take a fat bike out for a ride along the beach - great excercise and fun.
Thonga Beach Dining
Enjoy al fresco dining weather permitting on the deck under huge milkwood trees.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Your Rooms
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, Zulu
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Fishing, Flora, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Watersports, Wildlife