If you’re looking for a special place to unwind and take in the East Coast’s unparalleled views, we’ve scouted some iconic and new spots for you to try out!
Flavour Meets the Horizon
Located within the Umhlanga Arch, The Baron offers a dining experience as elevated as its views. Its modern, open-plan design creates a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, ideal for everything from casual lunches to formal dinners. The menu features a mix of hearty classics and gourmet delights, including premium steaks, burgers, and fresh seafood, paired with their extensive wine and craft beer selection. A standout feature is the terrace, offering panoramic views that make any visit a special occasion. Whether for the cuisine, cocktails or stunning setting, The Baron is where taste meets breathtaking beauty.
Instagram: @thebaron_umhlanga
Dining with A View
Situated along Durban’s scenic yacht basin, 9th Avenue Waterside offers a dining experience that combines exceptional cuisine with stunning waterfront views. The ambience is sophisticated yet relaxed, perfect for intimate dinners or lively gatherings. With floor-to-ceiling windows, guests are treated to panoramic vistas of the harbour, enhancing every meal with a serene, picturesque backdrop. The elegant setting, paired with a thoughtfully curated menu, makes it a standout destination for those seeking fine-dining in a truly breathtaking atmosphere.
Instagram: @9thavenuewaterside
Panoramic Vistas
Mundo Vida is a laid-back seaside spot in Umdloti Beach, Durban, where you can enjoy delicious, fresh seafood, meat, vegetarian dishes and stunning ocean views. With a relaxed vibe and stylish décor, it’s the perfect place to unwind with friends or family. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at sunset or grabbing a casual bite by the beach, Mundo Vida offers great food, excellent service, and an unbeatable coastal atmosphere. It’s a true hidden gem for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Durban’s beachfront dining.
Instagram: @mundovida_
Family-Friendly Coastal Views
The Lookout Restaurant is located in Glenashley, Durban North and boasts magnificent views of the coastline from Umhlanga through to the harbour. You can soak up the view from the seating area on the balcony and watch the ships and whales or the planes that come and go from Virginia Airport. This is a family-friendly restaurant with a separate bar area and casual dining, serving delicious comfort food. They’re famous for their pork loin ribs and peri-peri chicken and they also offer steaks, burgers and seafood, so there is something for everyone.
Tel: 065 906 4661
Sunset Sips
The Lighthouse Bar at the iconic Oyster Box Hotel offers a stylish setting with unrivalled views of the Indian Ocean and the famous Umhlanga lighthouse. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon or sunset cocktails, this chic bar provides a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy expertly crafted drinks and light bites. With a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe, guests can unwind on the terrace while soaking in the stunning coastal vistas. Whether you’re sipping a refreshing gin cocktail or indulging in fresh seafood, the Lighthouse Bar delivers an unforgettable experience, blending elegant ambience with the beauty of Durban’s coastline.
Instagram: @theoysterbox
Made to Stand Out
A fresh addition to Umhlanga, Prodigal Son promises more than just a meal—it’s the perfect blend of urban chic and laid-back charm. Newly opened in the Umhlanga Arch, it’s quickly becoming a stylish hotspot. From its terrace, the coastline glimmers when Durban’s skyline unfolds, a view that feels alive with possibility. The menu is a creative celebration, weaving locally inspired flavours with modern flair, complemented by craft beers, fine wines, and signature cocktails. With its contemporary design and a buzzing atmosphere, this restaurant is a fresh, exciting addition to Umhlanga’s dining scene, just in time for the holiday season.
Instagram: @prodigalson_umhlanga
Words: Cristina Govender