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Featured Hotels Near Sunken Gardens
Nestled in the heart of Durban, Sunken Gardens is a dreamlike oasis lost in time. Winding paths wind through lush greenery, where roses, bells of the earth, and exotic blooms burst in color. The air hums with natural perfume. The real magic? The overgrown fountain, half-swallowed by vines—crumbling ruins now bursting with life, as if nature is quietly healing human imperfections. Sit on the weathered stone steps, listen to birdsong and the whispering breeze, and feel the city’s noise fade away. This is one of Durban’s rare pockets of pure serenity—a place where your soul can finally breathe.
Suncoast Hotel & Towers
This family-friendly hotel is just a 3-minute walk from Durban Beach! Featuring an outdoor pool, childcare services, and a golf course, it’s perfect for a family getaway. Unwind with spa treatments, or enjoy Indian cuisine at the on-site restaurant with 24-hour room service. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting rooms and free WiFi. With airport transfers and parking available, this hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Hilton Durban
This luxury hotel is ideally located in central Durban, just a 10-minute walk from the Durban International Convention Centre and Sahara Kingsmead Stadium. Enjoy the outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness center, along with free WiFi and a complimentary beach shuttle for sun and surf. The elegantly decorated rooms even feature private indoor hot tubs for ultimate relaxation. Business travelers will appreciate the executive lounge and extensive meeting facilities, while families can take advantage of kids' meals and laundry services. Whether for work or leisure, this hotel is a perfect choice!
Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel
This Victorian-style boutique hotel is a dream getaway! Just minutes from Durban Beach and uShaka Marine World, it offers private hot tubs and fully-equipped kitchens for ultimate luxury. Enjoy free cooked-to-order breakfast by the outdoor pool, or unwind at the poolside bar. Perfect for sailing, surfing, or even hosting weddings. With 24/7 airport transfers, every detail is covered for a stress-free stay.
First Group The Palace All-Suite
This hotel is a dream for both families and business travelers! Nestled in the heart of Durban, it offers stunning ocean views and private beach access. Kids will love the children's pool, while parents can relax with spa treatments or a round of golf. The all-suite rooms feature private balconies, perfect for stargazing. With a business center, meeting rooms, and airport shuttle service, everything you need is right here. Plus, the childcare services ensure a stress-free stay for the whole family!
The Edward
This Victorian-style gem on Durban's waterfront offers stunning ocean views, just a 5-minute walk to the Entertainment World and 5-minute drive to Sahara Stadium. Unwind at the outdoor pool, water park, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment. Business travelers will appreciate the well-equipped conference center and 24-hour front desk. Enjoy cocktails with panoramic sea views at the bar, while families love the babysitting services and kids' meals. Rooms feature plush Tempur beds, free WiFi, and satellite TV – perfect for both leisure and business stays!
Blue Waters Hotel
This family-friendly hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Durban Beach, featuring indoor & outdoor pools and a kids' playground to keep the little ones entertained. Parents can unwind at the golf course or relax in the sauna. With babysitting services and children's meals, every need is covered. Business travelers will appreciate the conference center and work facilities. Enjoy sunset dinners at the ocean-view restaurant or cocktails at the bar - the perfect blend of work and play!
Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani
This hotel is perfect for both family vacations and business trips! Located right on Durban Beachfront, it’s just steps away from attractions like North Beach and Amphitheatre Gardens. The hotel offers kids’ pool and children’s meals, keeping the little ones entertained while adults relax at the spa or fitness center. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting rooms and business center. Unwind with a drink at the bar or enjoy in-room dining for a cozy night in. Don’t miss the nearby Cargo Hold Restaurant for amazing seafood—your taste buds will thank you!
Sica's Guest House
This charming guest house is a perfect getaway! Just 10 minutes from Durban Beach and uShaka Marine World, it offers an outdoor pool and tennis court for relaxation. Love water sports? Try sailing, kayaking, or surfing! Enjoy a free English breakfast daily, plus delicious meals at the on-site restaurant. Business travelers will appreciate the 5 meeting rooms. With 46 cozy rooms featuring free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms, plus complimentary parking, it’s ideal for both family vacations and business trips!
Belaire Suites Hotel
This is the perfect spot for sun and sea lovers! Unwind by the outdoor pool or enjoy the view from the garden terrace, with free WiFi to share your journey. Just 5 minutes from Durban Beach and uShaka Marine World, it's ideal for families with kids' meals and childcare services. Treat yourself to a spa massage or relax at the bar. Rooms feature kitchenettes with microwaves – perfect for a home-away-from-home vibe!
Ridgeview Lodge
Point Waterfront Apartments
Holland House B&B
Goble Palms Guest Lodge & Urban Retreat
Coastlands Musgrave Hotel and Convention Centre
Roseland House
The Balmoral - Halaal
McAllisters on 8th
Curiocity Durban - Hostel
Saint James on Venice
Mackaya Bella Guest House
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Sunken Gardens
The Oyster Box Hotel is a top choice, located just steps from Sunken Gardens with direct access to the beach and lush tropical gardens. This luxury coastal retreat features Mediterranean-inspired architecture, a private beach, and infinity pools overlooking the Indian Ocean. Guests can enjoy curated eco-guided tours that highlight native flora and birdlife within the gardens. The hotel also offers complimentary shuttle service to Sunken Gardens, ensuring seamless access for nature lovers and leisure travelers alike.
The most convenient option is taking a city bus or dedicated shuttle service from downtown Durban, which takes about 15 minutes to reach Sunken Gardens. For those driving, ample parking is available onsite with clear signage along the route. Many nearby hotels, such as The Oyster Box Hotel, provide free shuttle transfers, eliminating the need to worry about transportation. Walking or cycling is also recommended—offering scenic views of Durban’s coastal landscape and tropical greenery along the way.
Guests can join guided eco-tours led by expert naturalists, exploring over 200 indigenous and tropical plant species while spotting diverse birdlife in the wetland habitats. The garden also hosts night sky viewing sessions, benefiting from low light pollution due to its urban oasis setting—perfect for stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere. Additionally, regular plant workshops allow visitors to cultivate succulents or ferns, fostering hands-on connection with nature. These activities emphasize conservation and are ideal for families and eco-conscious travelers.
Near Sunken Gardens in Durban, The Oyster Box Hotel stands out with its colonial-era architecture and luxurious amenities. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the gardens and Indian Ocean from spacious rooms, plus access to a private beach and world-class spa. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service for convenient travel. Alternatively, Sun City Lodge provides eco-friendly accommodations surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility. Both properties are within a 5-minute walk of the gardens' scenic pathways and vibrant flora.
Travelers can reach Sunken Gardens from downtown Durban via local buses (e.g., Route 10) or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt, taking about 15–20 minutes. For greater comfort, pre-book a private transfer—many nearby hotels, including The Oyster Box Hotel, offer complimentary shuttles directly to the garden entrance. Once there, explore the lush, tropical landscape along well-maintained walking paths, featuring ancient stone fountains and exotic plant species. Ideal for morning strolls or evening relaxation amid serene greenery.
Must-visit highlights at Sunken Gardens include the sunken labyrinth garden, historic stone fountain, and the tropical rainforest ecosystem. Over 200 rare plant species thrive here, including towering ferns and mangroves that showcase rich biodiversity. During spring, the annual orchid exhibition draws enthusiasts from across South Africa. Scenic overlooks and secluded benches provide perfect spots for sunset photography and city skyline views. Guided tours are available upon reservation, offering insights into the garden’s ecological conservation and historical significance.
Yes, Sunken Gardens offers family-friendly experiences including interactive nature trails and outdoor educational workshops designed for children to learn about local flora and fauna. Nearby, The Oyster Box Hotel features a family pool, sandbox area, and kids’ game room, plus regular marine life-themed talks. Just outside the garden, the Durban Seafront Promenade is perfect for biking, stroller rides, and picnics, with shaded rest areas and cafés along the way—ideal for relaxing with kids while enjoying ocean breezes.
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