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The Oyster Box is South Africa’s most cherished seafront property, offering five-star luxury on the golden shores of Umhlanga, just 15 minutes from Durban. Overlooking the iconic red-and-white lighthouse, this award-winning hotel blends timeless elegance with warm hospitality. Guests can indulge in world-class dining, including the legendary curry buffet and High Tea, relax at the ocean-facing spa, and enjoy luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views. With direct beach access, exceptional service, and a rich heritage, The Oyster Box is the ultimate coastal retreat for discerning travelers. Perfect for romantic getaways, family escapes, and business stays, this iconic hotel promises an unforgettable experience in one of South Africa’s most spectacular locations.
The Oyster Box is more than a hotel—it is a national treasure, an icon of South African hospitality. Its story begins in 1863, when a simple cottage, ‘The Oyster Lodge,’ stood on this breathtaking stretch of coastline. By the 1950s, it had become a cherished tea room, a place where the scent of freshly baked scones mingled with the salty sea air. In 1954, The Oyster Box Hotel was born, its red-and-white lighthouse sentinel standing watch over the waves. It was here, in 1952, that the Tollmans shared one of their first dinners together—a moment that would come full circle when they purchased the hotel in 2006. Following a loving restoration, it reopened in 2009, its soul untouched but its legacy renewed, offering timeless elegance for generations to come.
Dining at The Oyster Box is a feast for the senses, where exquisite flavors meet incredible ocean views.
The Ocean Terrace offers fresh seafood, local flavors, and the hotel’s legendary Curry Buffet, featuring at least 11 expertly spiced curries daily. The relaxed, Mediterranean-inspired setting makes it the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast, lunch, or dinner by the sea.
For a refined experience, The Palm Court serves a lavish High Tea, with live piano music and an irresistible selection of sweet and savory treats.
A beacon of fine dining for over 70 years, The Grill Room delivers timeless elegance, blending classical continental cuisine with Africa’s finest produce.
Bars at The Oyster Box range from the stylish Oyster Bar to the cozy Chukka Bar, and the Lighthouse Bar, with panoramic sea views—perfect for sundowners.
For an exclusive culinary experience, The Chef’s Table offers a front-row seat to the artistry of the kitchen, where the Executive Chef and Brigade craft a bespoke menu for passionate food lovers.