Arrival/Check-In: The four-story Oyster Box Hotel, part of the Red Carnation collection, originally opened in 1947 and was beautifully rebuilt and relaunched in 2009. Set against the modern high-rises along the beachfront promenade in Umhlanga Rocks just outside Durban, the hotel offers a welcoming, classic retreat. I received a warm greeting at arrival, was pleasantly upgraded, offered a choice of refreshing drinks and escorted to my sea-facing Buthelezi suite while the staff pointed out key features of the property. A bellman brought my luggage shortly afterward.
Guest Quarters: Entering my suite — one of the hotel’s 86 rooms, suites and villas — I was immediately drawn to the glass doors that opened onto a private balcony with sweeping views of the Umhlanga Lighthouse, the beach promenade and the distant freighters waiting to enter Durban’s port. Inside, the living room and bedroom connected by sliding doors and were decorated in calming shades of blue with a tasteful mix of floral and geometric patterns.
The living room provided generous seating, a well-lit desk with multiple power outlets and a nearby powder room that makes it convenient to host a meeting without exposing the bedroom. The bedroom also opened onto the balcony and led to a spacious master bathroom, which features a deep soaking tub, a large rain shower, a separate water closet, heated towel bars, a double vanity and oversized B|Africa toiletries. An entry hall with double closets and a dressing table connects the bedroom area.
All rooms include a stocked minibar, complimentary WiFi, an electric kettle with a selection of teas and coffees, a shortbread snack, and fresh fruit and flowers. Wall-mounted flat-screen satellite TVs are provided in both the living room and bedroom, with remotes cleaned and individually bagged. Beach towels and umbrellas are available on request.
Services/Amenities: On the way to my suite I passed several of the hotel’s notable spaces: the Palm Court, where afternoon tea is served; the Grill Room, where I had dinner; the Terrace Room, where breakfast is offered; the Clock Library, showcasing pieces from the owner’s collection; and the beachside infinity pool. The Lighthouse Bar provides an elegant setting with views of the lighthouse. The hotel also displays a strong collection of contemporary works by Zulu-speaking artists from KwaZulu-Natal throughout its public areas.
I explored the town, strolled along the beachfront promenade and visited the full-service spa and fitness center adjacent to the garden pool. After dinner I discovered the intimate 24-seat theater, which screens several films daily. The full breakfast is extensive, with hot and cold buffet options and made-to-order dishes such as eggs Benedict. I enjoyed breakfast on the terrace overlooking the lighthouse and was delighted to watch a pod of dolphins swimming just offshore.
The Experience: Service at the Oyster Box is attentive and efficient. When I requested a U.S. power adapter it arrived within minutes, and when I had connectivity issues a technician promptly assisted in my room. My only regret was having only one night; I did not have enough time to sample the famous curry buffet or fully relax by the pool or on the beach. With a short window before my airport transfer I retreated to the spa’s relaxation area, sipped tea and made plans to return.
GT CHECKLIST
- Doorman/valet
- Less than 10 minutes for check-in
- Separate tub and shower
- Large vanity
- High-quality towels
- Powerful, unattached hair dryer
- High-quality bed linens
- Large, flat-screen television
- Large desk with convenient outlets
- Large, complimentary laptop safe
- Complimentary in-room WiFi
- Complimentary bottled water
- Stocked minibar
- Ample lighting
- In-room coffeemaker
- Iron and ironing board
- On-site restaurant and bar
- 24-hour room service
- 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center
- Turn-down service
The Oyster Box
2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks 4319
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
tel 27 31514 5000
oysterboxhotel.com