Best Gay Friendly Hotels in KwaZulu-Natal

Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani is a large, full-service beachfront hotel set along Durban’s Golden Mile, overlooking the Indian Ocean. A long-standing landmark in the city, it combines a classic high-rise setting with easy access to North Beach and the popular seaside promenade.

Rooms are straightforward and comfortable, with many offering full or partial ocean views. Standard rooms include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee facilities, while select rooms add minifridges. Suites provide extra space with separate living areas, and some include kitchen facilities for longer stays.

Facilities are extensive and designed for both leisure and business travelers. Guests have access to three outdoor pools, two fitness rooms, a spa, and a large selection of event and meeting spaces, including a top-floor venue with sea views. The beachfront location also works well for morning runs or relaxed walks along the promenade.

Dining is a standout here, with 11 restaurants and bars across the complex. Vigour & Verve is popular for its generous breakfast and brunch buffet, as well as dinner options that include local Durban specialties like bunny chow. The Panorama Bar and Pool Deck is especially a hit among guests with its unbeatable views of the water.

The Oyster Box is a five-star beachfront hotel set on the Umhlanga coastline, just north of Durban, overlooking the Indian Ocean and the area’s iconic red-tipped lighthouse. It is one of South Africa’s most celebrated hotels, known for its historic character, attentive service, and exceptional coastal setting. Umhlanga Village Centre is a short walk away, with Durban and King Shaka International Airport both easily reached by car.

The hotel offers 86 individually decorated rooms, suites, and villas, each designed with its own personality. Many feature private balconies with sweeping ocean views, while others offer quieter garden-facing spaces. Rooms are air-conditioned and well equipped, balancing classic style with modern comforts.

Facilities include an award-winning spa set within tropical gardens, along with tranquil relaxation areas and dedicated treatment rooms. The hotel also has conference and event spaces, making it suitable for both leisure stays and small-scale business gatherings.

Dining is a major highlight. Seafood features prominently, the Curry Buffet is a long-standing favorite, and breakfast is widely praised. Afternoon High Tea in the Palm Court is a signature experience, while bars and lounges provide relaxed spots for sunset drinks.