As its name suggests, South Beach is located on the city’s beachfront halfway between North Beach and Ushaka Marine World, south of central Durban. The only things separating South Beach from Durban’s harbour are a railway line and Quayside Road. There aren’t many natural harbours between Port Elizabeth and Maputo, but the city’s harbour is one of them. It is also so busy because it is at the beginning of weather phenomena that are known to cause extremely rough seas.
South Beach, Durban is close to Addington Hospital and Durban’s hip Point neighbourhood, which has recently undergone a revitalization that includes waterways, upscale residences, boutiques, and office space. Even the Vetch’s Pier small craft harbour was delayed for four years by opposition from neighbourhood boating clubs. The waterways are now used by boats and gondolas, which have a Venice-like quality, especially at night. It’s a departure from the Point of the past.
The beach at Point Yacht Club is a great place to swim because it tends to have swells and less windy weather in the summer. Point Yacht Club still hosts a number of races and regattas throughout the year from the seaside.
Driving along OR Tambo Parade (the former Esplanade) and over South Beach Avenue is all it takes to get to Ushaka Marine World from South Beach, Durban. It’s worth at least a day of excitement to visit Africa’s largest marine theme park, especially if you have kids.
You may also go on a harbour cruise from South Beach, explore the Point Waterfront, stroll along the Yacht Mole, dine at a number of upscale restaurants, or go to the Millenium Tower in Durban, which is located on the Bluff headland.