A Guide to Durban's Nightlife

If you're lucky enough to visit Durban there is plenty to keep you entertained almost 24 hours of the say. Soak up the sun on the beach of stroll along the Golden Mile during the daytime and enjoy some revelry afterwards with one of many post sunset activities Durban has to offer. Why not visit the theatre or groove to techno at one of the trendy nightclubs? Soak up the atmosphere are one of Durban's traditional restaurants, or simply grab a beer at one of the local pubs. The population of Durban is very eclectic which means that the entertainment available is equally varied.

Top ten spots to visit when the sun goes down

  • 330 club:

    330 is a very popular club to visit and has earned itself some rave reviews. Many of the world's talented DJs have hosted here and given it international fame.

  • The BAT Centre:

    This is another interesting spot, especially for those who enjoy creativity. It is set in a warehouse that hosts Drum circles, poetry slams and sell handicrafts and artists paintings. A dance party is held on Friday nights and on Sundays there are jazz concerts.

  • Florida Road:

    Walk along Florida Road and you'll experience a location that's popular with locals. It's trendy and vibey, with a selection of street cafes coffee shops, restaurants and a few friendly pubs.

  • Wilson's Wharf:

    If you want somewhere newer and much cooler, Wilson's Wharf is a hip place to be see. There are some new restaurants where diners can throw back the sundowners and watch the world float by.

  • Beanbag Bohemia:

    Beanbag Bohemia, for example, is set in a Victorian house. Guests can lounge around in the garden or head upstairs to enjoy bouncing beats.

  • North Beach:

    As well as the beach, there are also some slick, hip and laid-back bars, some of which provide spectacular views of the ocean at sunset. There are also some with large verandas or porches where it's possible to rock the night away under the stars.

  • Windmere Road:

    Parallel to Florida Road and one street away is Windermere Road, also with a good selection of pubs and restaurants, but not as busy.

  • Ushaka Marine World:

    Another must see place to visit is the Ushaka Marine World. There are some spectacular restaurants, an aquarium, cage diving with sharks and even snorkelling.

a photo of Mabhoda Stadium at night

There is also the Suncoast Casino and a short walk away from it is the Moses Mabhida Stadium. This is quite a spectacular site, especially at night time when the largest load bearing arch in the world is lit up. It's possible to take a sky car ride to the top of the arch and the view of Durban's skyline in breathtaking.

Well there you have it. Our top 10 places to visit when you've had enough of lying around on the beach. There's just one more location that's worthy of a mention, especially for those who enjoy a flutter on the horses.

Greyville Racecourse

This is home to Africa's greatest horse-racing event, the Vodacom Durban July. It also hosts many other top class horse-racing events throughout the year. The backdrop for this racecourse includes many hotels of Durban's Golden Mile, as it is situated at the bottom of Durban's Berea. It also surrounds the Royal Durban Golf Club's championship course. Races take place during the day but Greyville is better known for its night racing. And because there is a turf and polytrack, the racing can take place regardless of the weather. For seven months of the year the racecourse holds night racing every Friday night. This event is very popular for all the family, as it includes a special section for children. During the months of May to July, South Africa's top equine athletes come to Durban for the Champion Season.

If you want to get around the city in a fun and unusual way you might want to hop onboard one of the 25 or so remaining rickshaws. Durban is well known for its iconic Zulu rickshaw pullers that navigate their way through the bustling city. The pullers are very colourful characters who are most famous for the giant hats and vibrant costumes.