Lauren Anthony

Durban isn’t just a top holiday destination, it’s a pet-lover’s paradise too. From breezy beachfront cafés to countryside pubs with dedicated doggy menus, KZN offers plenty of spots where your furry companion is just as welcome as you are. So hook the leash, pack the treats, and plan a day trip with your favourite travel partner. Great food tastes even better when shared with someone who never judges your order and is always happy to see you. Basic etiquette While you may love and adore your pets, not everyone around you will feel the same. Being mindful and considerate of others sharing the space is essential. Most restaurants enforce a "leash-only" rule, so be sure to follow it at all times. Always clean up after your pet and remember to bring waste bags with you. But, without further ado, here are some of Durban and surrounds' paw-approved pitstops to raise the woof… TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

If you grew up in KZN, you’ve likely spent at least one childhood holiday riding horses, hiking, and swimming in streams found within the dramatic Drakensberg mountains. If not, then this is your sign to pack your bags and head for the hills, because the Drakensberg is unmatched in scenic beauty and outdoor fun! Speaking of packing, here’s a checklist to help you prepare for a one-day hike in the Drakensberg. Must-pack items: Water bottle Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes A warm jacket and waterproof clothing (mountain weather changes fast) Sunglasses First-aid kit Torch or headlamp, with extra batteries Nutritious snacks and meals to keep your energy up Navigation tools: a mobile GPS or compass, plus a map Power bank – better safe than sorry SPF Trekking pole(s) If you're camping overnight, add: Sleeping bag Toiletries Extra clothes and underwear – don’t forget thermals Tent and sleeping mat Plenty of food to last the duration of your trip Gas stove and necessary cooking accessories When is the best time to visit? It depends on what you’re looking for, but autumn (March–May) is generally the ideal time. During these months, temperatures are comfortably mild, skies are clear, rainfall is minimal, and the views are truly breathtaking. To make planning even easier, we’ve found a few Airbnbs near the Drakensberg that might be worth checking out. Click here to view. But without further ado, here are our top 10 reasons to visit the Berg (as we call it in KZN!): Time Out ma

When you think of Durban, what comes to mind? Golden beaches, warm weather, bold flavours? You wouldn’t be alone, and you wouldn’t be wrong. But this friendly coastal city has far more to offer than first meets the eye. From historic markets woven into the fabric of the city to Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden, and local artists celebrating Durban’s rich biodiversity and ecosystems that make KwaZulu-Natal truly one-of-a-kind, there’s a deeper story just waiting to be discovered. And quite frankly, if Durban isn’t on your 'must-visit' list, seriously, what is wrong with you? And before you say it, no, we’re not being biased… well, maybe just a tiny bit. After all, we’ve got the official title to back us up: Durban was named one of Time Out’s Best Places to Travel in 2026. Whether you’re a curious local, a first-time visitor, or looking to impress at your next quiz night, here are 10 fun facts about Durban you might not know. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

If you’re one of the many, MANY motorists heading to KZN for the Easter holiday, you’re in luck…eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that all of Durban’s bathing beaches are open and safe for swimming! However, before you grab your Speedo and head for the water, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has warned that a full moon spring tide is peaking on Thursday, 2 April, bringing stronger ocean conditions along the coast. Spring tides mean higher high tides, lower low tides, and more powerful currents, all of which can increase risks for swimmers, anglers, and anyone spending time near the water. Also read: Durban ready to welcome visitors this Easter Holiday What this means for your beach day While Durban’s beaches are open and lifeguards are on duty, ocean conditions may be more unpredictable than usual. Expect: Stronger rip currents, especially later in the day Waves reaching further up the shore during high tide Certain coastal paths and rock areas are becoming unsafe or inaccessible It doesn’t mean you should skip the beach, just that a little extra awareness goes a long way. Tips for bather safety If you’re heading out this Easter weekend, a few simple precautions can make all the difference: Swim at lifeguard-protected beaches and stay between the flags Keep a close eye on children at all times No alcohol when swimming or near the water Be cautious of rip currents and changing tides Wear life jackets when boating, paddling, or fishing from rocks Check weather for

Durban’s winter isn’t quite the same as anywhere else in the country. No need for thick jackets. No furry boots. And, thanks to the Indian Ocean, we can still hit the surf while everyone is warming up by the fire. That’s why, this May, everyone is heading to Vetch’s Beach at Durban Undersea Club to participate in the Oceans 8 Charity Swim.  Taking place on 23 and 24 May 2026 (with a possible weather window on 25 May), the event brings together swimmers, supporters and 14 beneficiary charities for a purpose-driven weekend in the ocean. Founded by charities, for charities, Oceans 8 has already raised more than R3 million since its launch, supporting organisations across KwaZulu-Natal.  Choose your swim challenge Whether you’re dipping your toe into ocean swimming or chasing a serious endurance goal, there’s a category for you: 1 Mile Swim A great entry-level option with multiple event slots. Cost: R200 + min. R800 fundraising 4 Mile Swim 2 miles per day across two days. Cost: R700 + min. R3 000 fundraising 8 Mile Swim 4 miles per day across two days. Cost: R1 100 + min. R5 000 fundraising 16 Mile Swim The ultimate endurance test: 8 miles per day. Cost: R1 100 + min. R5 000 fundraising Interschools 1-Mile Swim Learners represent their schools, raise funds, and compete for trophies. A story of resilience While the distances are impressive, it’s the human stories behind Oceans 8 that truly define the event. This year, one story stands out. Kathryn Powell (East Rand) and

If you’re looking to keep the kids active (and off their screens) this Easter, Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga has launched an exciting programme. The brand-new Have a Ball Fun & Fitness Club is a high-energy holiday programme designed to get young visitors playing and connecting. Running until 12 April 2026, this interactive pop-up (near Sportsmans Warehouse at entrance 8 on the ground floor) is all about feel-good fun for families spending the holidays in Durban. Move, Play, Repeat Expect a packed daily line-up that keeps energy levels high from late morning into the afternoon. With instructors from Virgin Active leading the way, kids can jump into a mix of activities that blend fitness with fun. The programme kicks off at 11am with a dance session, followed by interactive games. From there, things heat up with boxing-inspired workouts, before team challenges with Grid Squad build coordination – with a little friendly competition thrown in! There’s also plenty of room to explore something new. Padel sessions - one of the fastest-growing sports right now - will run daily, giving kids a chance to try their hand in a relaxed setting. You can also expect extra activities like basketball, soccer, and arts and crafts running throughout the day. Sessions are just R20 per child for 45 minutes, making it an affordable way to add some structure (and a lot of fun) to the school break. All ages are welcome, with parental or guardian supervision. What You Need to Know • Where: G

Durban is pulling out all the stops to make it a safe escape for all visitors. At a weekend media briefing, Mayor Cyril Xaba said Durban is expecting over 1.2-million visitors to descend on its shores, bringing with them a massive economic boost and plenty of energy. From beach days to big-name concerts, the city is primed for one of its busiest periods of the year. A city in full holiday mode Durban’s Easter calendar is stacked. Major events include the One Man Concert, Doek On Fleek, and live shows from artists like Sjava and Bryan Adams, alongside family-friendly programmes at uShaka Marine World, Mitchell Park Zoo, and the Durban Botanic Gardens. There’s also good news for beach lovers. All 23 of Durban’s bathing beaches are open and safe for swimming. The city will also deploy 200 lifeguards daily from 6am to 6pm, while water quality testing has been ramped up to weekly checks over the holiday period. Add to that beachfront markets, and a recently earned spot among the top 15 cities in the world to visit in 2026 (Time Out Worldwide), and it’s clear why Durban remains a go-to holiday destination. Safety on the roads and beyond Authorities aren’t taking any chances this year. Alongside the good vibes, you can also expect heightened police visibility. Across KwaZulu-Natal, more than 3,400 law enforcement officers are being deployed as part of the Easter road safety crackdown. Operating under the banner of the Nenzani La Ezweni campaign, officials will be working 24/7 until

Whether you’re a seasoned wave-rider or first-time competitor, you’re invited to enter the Amanzimtoti Surf Fest 2026 set to hit Amanzimtoti Main Beach on 25 and 26 April. Just 30km south of Durban, this coastal holiday gem is the perfect mix of golden sands, warm waters, and festival vibes… and the place to be this Easter holiday! Surfers will compete across various categories, showing off their skills in front of cheering crowds. This year’s top prize is a cool R8 000 in cash, with runners-up also walking away with epic surf gear and prizes. The competition promises high-energy performances, with competitors carving, spinning, and dropping in on the warm Indian Ocean waves, giving spectators an exhilarating show. But the festival isn’t just about catching waves. Beach rugby and volleyball matches run alongside the main surfing action, keeping the excitement high throughout the day. Artisan markets line the beachfront, offering handmade crafts, local goodies, and seaside shopping, while a variety of beachfront restaurants ensure no one goes hungry after an action-packed morning on the sand. Entry for surfers is just R70, and spots are limited. Surfers should contact Rudolph on 064 762 8392 to secure a place and avoid missing out on the fun. What you need to know Venue: Amanzimtoti Main Beach  Date: 25 and 26 April 2026 Cost: R70 per surfer Enter: Rudolph on 064 762 8392 before 20 April More action on the Sapphire Coast While the festival takes centre stage, Amanzimtoti off

After thousands of kilometres and long days at sea, the Coast2Coast4Farmers journey is nearing its final stretch, but its message of prioritising mental health for South African farmers will continue to resonate.  What began at Sodwana Bay — one of South Africa’s most iconic dive sites within KwaZulu-Natal’s iSimangaliso Wetland Park UNESCO World Heritage Site — has become a powerful, purpose-driven expedition along the country’s entire coastline. The team of Louwrens Mahoney, Carlo Smuts, Ruan Jordaan and Henry Lubbe set out on jet skis to tackle an extraordinary 3,000km journey around South Africa’s coastline. The mission has been to shine a spotlight on farmers’ mental health, an often-overlooked crisis affecting those who keep the country fed. Facing unpredictable weather, rough seas, and physically demanding conditions, the group has drawn a direct parallel between their journey and the daily realities farmers endure, from drought and disease to financial pressure and uncertainty. Facebook: Coast to Coast 4 FarmersLouwrens Mahoney, Carlo Smuts, Ruan Jordaan and Henry Lubbe set out on jet skis to tackle an extraordinary 3,000km journey around South Africa’s coastline A message that matters For Carlo Smuts, who works in animal health, the motivation is deeply personal: “Over the past four years, I’ve witnessed the growing strain on farmers firsthand. Ruan and Louwrens work in UB Leisure, and many of their customers are farmers, while Henry is in the fruit and vegetable m

The globally celebrated Museum of Illusions is officially opening its doors at Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga from Saturday, 25 April 2026, bringing a world of mind-bending optical trickery to KZN. From Paris to New York and Dubai, the Museum of Illusions has captivated millions of visitors, and now it’s Durban’s turn. Originally launched in Zagreb (Croatia) in 2015, the brand has grown into a worldwide sensation that blends science, art, and play into an unforgettable experience. “Durban is a city known for its energy, creativity and vibrant culture, which makes it the perfect place for the next Museum of Illusions,” says owner Mark Collie. “We’re excited to invite visitors to step into a world where nothing is quite as it seems.” Expect the unexpected Forget everything you thought a museum should be. This is a fully interactive playground where touching, exploring, and posing for photos are all part of the experience. At the Museum of Illusions, you can: Defy gravity in the Tilted Room Make a copy of yourself in the Clone Room Get lost in the Infinity Room Snap hilarious pics in the famous ‘giant chair’ and ‘big and small’ rooms These are just some of the 80 exhibits designed to trick your brain and completely challenge your perceptions! The museum is ideal for a family outing, quirky date, school trip, birthday celebration, teambuilding event, or just something different! SuppliedMuseum of Illusions arrives on Durban’s shores What you need to know Opening: Sa

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just love a bit of friendly competition, this is the event you don’t want to miss. With big prizes and activities for the whole family, Bonanza is a great way to spend this year’s Easter weekend! Hook the big one The stakes are high! The 1st prize nets a whopping R100,000 (and serious bragging rights), with R60,000 for second and R30,000 for third. It’s your chance to show off your skills and maybe even become a local legend on the water. Late entries are still available at R1,500 (shirt excluded), so don’t wait! Spots are limited, and this is one fishing bonanza that fills up fast. More than just fishing  Bonanza 2026 isn’t just about casting lines; it’s a full-on festival by the water for the whole family to enjoy. Expect: DJ beats, keeping the vibes high  Kids Jetty Competition (perfect for little anglers!) Beer tent for refreshment breaks  Jumping castles to keep the young ones entertained What you need to know When: 3–5 April 2026 Where: Richards Bay Ski-Boat Club Entry Fee: R1,500 after (shirt excluded) Prizes: R100,000 (1st) | R60,000 (2nd) | R30,000 (3rd) Contacts & Registration: Hermann: 082 956 0224 | hermann@afrigear.co.za | Hannetjie: 035 753 2516 | admin@rbsbc.co.za Website: www.rbsbc.co.za  Grab your rods, rally your crew, and get ready to make a splash at Bonanza 2026. May the biggest catch win!  TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to

With the April school holidays around the corner, many visitors are gearing up for road trips, beach days, and family adventures in the beautiful city of Durban. With big price hikes around the corner, it’s well worth filling up your tank this week to save a few extra bucks for the holidays.  The Central Energy Fund is currently forecasting a notable fuel price increase from 1 April, with petrol expected to rise by nearly R5 per litre and diesel by more than R8 per litre. After a bit of respite at the petrol pumps, this isn’t the most welcome turn of events, but a little planning now could help soften the blow. Supply is stable The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has reassured motorists that fuel supply remains stable, with deliveries for March and early April already secured. Government is also working closely with industry stakeholders to ensure supply and manage any potential risks. There have been isolated reports of limited fuel availability at some stations, particularly diesel, but this is not considered a national shortage. The key takeaway? You don’t need to rush, just don’t leave your tank running on empty. Why prices are going up The expected increase is largely a result of global factors. Rising crude oil prices - now exceeding $100 per barrel - along with disruptions to key international shipping routes and currency fluctuations, are pushing up the cost of imported fuel.  As a country that relies heavily on fuel imports, we’re naturally affected by

Durban is once again making waves, from the harbour to the hinterlands. Plans have been announced by eThekwini Municipality for everything from luxury superyachts to future-facing cannabis innovation, positioning the city as a hub of opportunity across industries.  Durban’s billion-rand bet on superyachts In a major international move, eThekwini Municipality has secured over R1.9 billion in investment commitments to develop Africa’s FIRST dedicated superyacht hub right here in Durban! This follows a high-profile engagement at the global YARE (Yachting Aftersales and Refit Experience) conference in Italy, where Durban officially partnered with Navigo, a global leader in superyacht destination development. The plan is to create a cutting-edge superyacht precinct within the Port of Durban, focused on refit, repair, and servicing. This will be major drawcard for international yacht owners and crews. Even more exciting: Durban will host the YARE Symposium this November, making it the first African city ever to welcome this prestigious global event. The ripple effect could be massive, with over 2,500 jobs expected by 2030 across marine engineering, manufacturing, and tourism. There are also plans for a Superyacht Academy, equipping young South Africans with high-demand technical skills. Durban isn’t just a holiday destination anymore; it’s gearing up to be a serious player in the global luxury marine economy. A budding cannabis hub Durban’s ambitions aren’t stopping at the shorelin

Dust off your hats, press those suits, and start mood-boarding because Durban’s much-anticipated annual horse race - Hollywoodbets Durban July – is coming up on 4 July, and this year’s theme is serving up serious style inspiration. It’s time to start planning your outfit around ‘Country Allure’, where rural charm meets race-day glamour, and where gumboots can (somehow) look couture. Bringing countryside chic Unveiled at the iconic Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, the 2026 theme encourages racegoers to tap into the romance of the countryside - rolling hills, equestrian elegance, and a touch of vintage flair - but reimagined with Durban July-level drama. Designers are already buzzing about the possibilities. ‘Country Allure’ opens the door to storytelling through fashion, blending tradition with modern African creativity. Expect to see everything from tailored tweeds and flowing fabrics to daring interpretations that push boundaries. This is your moment to blend heritage textures and earthy tones with bold tailoring and high-fashion finishes. You can go full-on farm glam or just add a subtle rustic detail – see where your creativity takes you! If you want to make a statement, this is your runway… View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hollywoodbets Durban July (@hollywoodbetsdurbanjuly) Durban’s biggest day out While the central feature of the Durban July is the epic horse racing (including the legendary 13th race – no fashion required!), there’s

There’s always a reason to be outdoors in Durban, and this weekend that reason is the epic Paddle Fest running at Durban Undersea Club and on the KZN North Coast. Whether you’re a hardcore ocean sports fan or just love a good beachside vibe, this is your chance to catch some of South Africa’s top paddlers in full flight. On Saturday, 21 March you can look forward to fast-paced, spectator-friendly action. The brand-new Forex People: KZN Schools League Race gets things going at 8am, showcasing rising young talent in an exciting 8km ocean challenge. Then, stick around for the Reef Shootout. This is a high-intensity knockout event where paddlers battle it out in short, thrilling laps right off the shore. It’s loud, it’s competitive, and it’s seriously fun to watch. Jon IvinsTessa Salmon from Epworth But the real headline act comes on Sunday, 22 March with the Carnegie Power Ballito Downwind. This is a legendary 18.5km ocean race between Blythedale Beach and Tiffany’s Beach (the direction will depend on the day’s conditions). Expect big names like Hank McGregor to take on the course, alongside a stacked field of elite competitors. With a bonus prize on the line for anyone breaking the one-hour mark, the stakes (and speed) are higher than ever. What you need to know: Saturday, 21 March Venue: Durban Undersea Club (DUC) 8am: Forex People: KZN Schools League Race (8km) Inaugural schools race forming part of the new Junior Paddling League. Saturday, 21 March Venue: Durban Underse