The best artistic small towns near Durban

Situated on the Dolphin Coast, Ballito has quickly become a favourite holiday destination. Often referred to as the "Pearl of the Dolphin Coast", this charming seaside town boasts several Blue Flag beaches, including Willard Beach, Thompson’s Bay Beach, and Salt Rock Beach. Ballito is also a playground for bottlenose dolphins, so keep your camera and a pair of binoculars close at hand!

What to see and do

Beyond the sun, sand, and surf, Ballito has quietly established itself as a creative hotspot. Whether you are an art student, collector or casual admirer, the town offers a variety of spaces such as The Gallery Lifestyle, The Pottery, and Nat’s Art Studio. These venues showcase a mix of ceramics, paintings, drawings, prints, and mixed media works.

Ballito also comes alive through music, hosting popular festivals such as Big Week and KZN Summer, where local artists and DJs transform the town into a vibrant party destination.

Distance from Durban

Ballito is approximately a 40 minute drive (46,6 km) from Durban, making it ideal for a quick day trip or a relaxed overnight getaway.

Accommodation: Book here.

When you think of St Lucia, you might picture hippos roaming the streets at night, but there is far more to this small town than meets the eye. Nestled within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, St Lucia is also home to a vibrant creative scene that showcases the work of both established and emerging KwaZulu-Natal artists. From galleries to local markets, art and craftsmanship are woven into everyday life here.

What to see and do

The Gallery in St Lucia is housed in a building over 100 years old and features a diverse collection of works by both emerging and established artists. For a more eclectic experience, visit the Sugar Loaf Market, where you will find everything from handbags, ornaments, and tablecloths to jewellery and hand-carved wooden bowls. Located on the main street, the St Lucia Arts and Crafts Market offers handmade pieces created by local community members.

Distance from Durban

Approximately 2 hours and 48 minutes (238 km) from Durban, St Lucia is a must-see destination whether you are drawn by its wildlife or its creative spirit.

Accomodation: Book here.

Also read: Where to find the wild ones near Durban

Port Shepstone is a charming seaside haven nestled at the mouth of the Mzimkhulu River, the largest river on KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast.

What to see and do:

One of the town’s most popular attractions is the Port Shepstone Maritime Museum, which plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing the area’s heritage, history, and tourism legacy. The museum hosts both permanent and temporary exhibitions that provide insight into the region’s past.

Port Shepstone is also home to the quirky Upside Down House. As the name suggests, the entire structure is inverted, with furniture, fixtures, and décor arranged upside down inside to maintain the playful illusion, making it a fun and memorable stop.

No visit to Port Shepstone would be complete without mentioning its iconic black-and-white lighthouse. While visitors aren’t able to get up close, it remains a striking landmark and is well worth admiring from a distance.

Distance from Durban

Port Shepstone is approximately 124 km from Durban, with a travel time of about 1 hour and 23 minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick seaside day trip or weekend getaway.

Accomodation: Book here.

Located in the heart of the Midlands in KwaZulu-Natal, Howick is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is best known for its natural beauty, most notably the spectacular Howick Falls. Howick also holds an important place in South African history.

What to see and do:

For those interested in South Africa’s history, the Nelson Mandela Capture Site is located near the spot where Mandela was arrested at a police roadblock in 1962. The centre includes exhibitions that examine the country’s past through photographs, historical artefacts, and a 360-degree film.

Distance from Durban:

Howick is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (99 km) from Durban.

Accomodation: Book here.

If you’re keen to explore Zulu history and culture, along with the early beginnings of the sugar cane industry, Empangeni, just 17km from Richards Bay, is an great place to start.

What to see and do:

The town’s standout attraction is the Empangeni Arts and Cultural History Museum. Housed in a centrally located building dating back to 1916, the museum is dedicated to studying, preserving, and collecting objects of artistic, cultural, and historical significance. Its exhibitions offer insights into traditional Zulu culture.

For those who prefer outdoor pursuits, Empangeni also boasts an 18-hole golf course, making it easy to mix culture with leisure.

Distance from Durban:

Empangeni lies approximately 162km from Durban, about a 1 hour and 45 minute drive by car.

Accomodation: Book here.