Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
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.
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!
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.
See what other travelers say about Sunken Gardens
We recently brought a group of about 20 people to Durban, and choosing Sica’s Guest House turned out to be one of our best decisions. Carri-Ann kept in touch with us consistently before arrival, which made the whole process smooth and stress-free. From the moment we stepped in, the staff were warm, welcoming, and attentive—exactly what you want when traveling with a large group. We had dinner at the guest house, and the food was absolutely outstanding—fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared. Breakfast was included and offered a great variety; they even happily made omelets on request. The rooms were spacious, clean, and well-maintained, with plenty of room for luggage and comfortable, firm beds that ensured a good night’s sleep. The shower heated up quickly and delivered strong water pressure—no complaints there. Overall, this was a top-tier experience from start to finish. A truly memorable stay, highly recommended for both groups and solo travelers alike.
Staying at Point Waterfront Apartments was an absolute delight! The place is spotlessly clean and the staff couldn’t have been more welcoming. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt warm and inviting. Located just a short walk from the city center and close to public transit, getting around town was a breeze. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores nearby—everything you need is within easy reach. Our room was compact but thoughtfully designed with all the essentials: comfy bed, modern amenities, and a stunning view of the ocean. Waking up to the sound of waves and watching the sunrise through the window was pure bliss. It’s rare to find such a great balance between comfort, location, and value. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Durban.
The location is excellent—just a short walk from some fantastic restaurants and cozy cafés, perfect for exploring the local scene. The rooms are spacious and immaculately clean, making it a comfortable stay from start to finish. I especially want to highlight Elliot, the manager—he’s incredibly attentive, professional, and always ready to help with anything you need. His warm hospitality truly made a difference. This place offers such great value, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Durban.
Staying at Goble Palms Guest Lodge & Urban Retreat was an absolute delight. The accommodation is beautifully designed with a tasteful, modern touch, and the rooms are spotlessly clean—every detail feels thoughtfully curated. The staff couldn’t have been more welcoming or helpful; they went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, abundant, and delicious. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: just a 5-minute ride from the beach and super close to Florida Road, where you’ll find a great variety of restaurants and local favorites. Whether you're here for relaxation or exploring the city, this place hits all the right notes. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Durban.
Staying at Roseland House was a delightful experience from start to finish. The room was spotlessly clean, well-maintained, and felt very fresh—no unpleasant odors at all. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, going the extra mile to make sure everything was comfortable, even offering help with transportation arrangements. What stood out most was the peaceful atmosphere—the hotel is tucked away in a quiet, green area, far from city noise, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway. I enjoyed uninterrupted sleep every night. While there aren’t many dining options right on site, there are a few cozy local eateries within walking distance. The location is also convenient for getting around town, with easy access to public transit if needed. For travelers seeking a serene, low-key stay without compromising on comfort or cleanliness, this hotel offers excellent value. A truly peaceful retreat in Durban.
Staying at Coweys Corner felt like coming home—warm, welcoming, and incredibly comfortable. The service was exceptional from check-in to check-out, and every detail, from the cozy rooms to the fresh, delicious meals, exceeded expectations. Breakfast was especially impressive—local flavors, high quality, and beautifully presented. The location is perfect for exploring Durban, with easy access to public transit and nearby restaurants. It’s rare to find such a peaceful retreat with so much charm and convenience. I’ve already booked my next stay—this place truly delivers on comfort, hospitality, and value. Highly recommend it!
This place is absolutely charming and perfectly located in the heart of Durban. The room was spotless, comfortable, and stylish with thoughtful touches that made it feel truly special. Our host went above and beyond with warm hospitality, making us feel right at home. I especially loved the peaceful garden and patio area—such a serene retreat from the city’s pace. It’s the kind of place you don’t want to leave, and I already know I’ll be returning. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a relaxing, authentic stay.
We absolutely loved our stay at Soul House in Durban—100% would return next time! The location is perfect, just a short walk from the beach and surrounded by great local spots to eat and explore. Our host was incredibly kind and helpful throughout our visit—offering a ride to the beach when we needed it made all the difference. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, with a cozy vibe that made us feel right at home. From start to finish, the experience was seamless and welcoming. If you're visiting Durban, this is definitely a top choice for an authentic, friendly, and memorable stay.
Staying at Tamarisk Bed & Breakfast was a perfect escape just minutes from all the amenities Durban has to offer. Lana, our host, was warm and welcoming—her kindness made the whole experience feel personal and special. The garden is beautifully serene, offering a peaceful retreat after a long day exploring the city. The rooms are spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind. It’s rare to find such a quiet, relaxing atmosphere so close to everything. A true gem for travelers seeking both convenience and tranquility.
This was our first vacation in years — and the very first one with my husband of 20 years, so it meant everything. The entire experience was absolutely wonderful. From the moment we arrived, the staff were warm, welcoming, and genuinely helpful. The reception team and housekeeping ladies stood out — their attention to detail and kindness made all the difference. Our room had an incredible sea view, and waking up to that every morning was pure bliss. We truly had an amazing time, and Durban Spa made our stay unforgettable. Thank you for such a heartfelt welcome and exceptional service. Can’t wait to come back soon — sending lots of love and appreciation your way!
My stay at Musgrave Avenue Guest Lodge was absolutely delightful. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and at home. The guesthouse is cozy and thoughtfully decorated, with a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer. It's perfect for solo travelers like me—safe, quiet, and well-located just a short walk from local cafes and public transport. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, always ready to offer tips on nearby attractions. Everything about this place felt genuine and personal, not just another hotel. If you're looking for a peaceful, authentic experience in Durban, this is the spot. I’ll definitely be back.
I booked this hotel for my siblings—a boy and a girl—and their stay was absolutely fantastic. They loved the cleanliness of the room and felt completely comfortable sharing space, especially since budget didn’t allow for two separate rooms. The private bathroom was a big plus—it offered enough privacy and security, so they never felt exposed or uneasy. The bedding was fresh and clean throughout their five-night stay, and the room was professionally cleaned every day. The housekeeping team was friendly and attentive, adding to the positive experience. Check-in was smooth and stress-free, which was great since it was their first time staying in a hotel—no confusion, no delays, just a seamless process. Overall, the service, comfort, and attention to detail made their trip memorable. I’d definitely recommend this place for families or groups looking for a reliable, welcoming, and well-maintained stay.
Explore more amazing destinations