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Durban’s Top Romantic Locations for a Dreamy Engagement
Planning to pop the question in Durban? You picked a great place to propose!
Durban is a lively city with lots of amazing places for your special moment. whether you prefer beautiful beaches with golden sunsets or romantic botanical gardens. Here are some of our favourite engagement spots!
The Oyster Box Hotel
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Website: https://oysterboxhotel.com/
Address: 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Phone: +27 31 514 5000
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 10 AM to 11 PM
The Oyster Box Hotel is a fancy five-star spot right on Umhlanga Beach, with stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse. They’ve got 86 unique rooms, some with cool extras like private lounges and plunge pools.
There are fantastic dining options, from a seafood feast at Ocean Terraces to top-notch steaks and seafood at the Grill Room. Before or after the big moment, unwind at their award-winning spa surrounded by lush gardens.
| Pro Tip: Select an intimate setting like The Oyster Bar’s Wine Cellar, customise a special menu, and choose a meaningful wine for a memorable and romantic proposal. |
Durban North Japanese Gardens
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Address: Tinsley Road, Durban North, Durban, KwaZulu Natal
Durban North Japanese Gardens is a lovely spot to pop the question. It has ponds with lilies, curvy paths, and bamboo-lined walkways, all decorated with pretty Japanese flowers.
The bridges over the fish-filled ponds give you a beautiful view, making it a perfect place for a special moment. Even on busy weekends, the garden’s simple design and peaceful feeling make it great for a romantic proposal in the middle of nature.
| Pro Tip: After your proposal, enjoy a picnic or head to Jaipur Palace Restaurant for tasty North Indian dishes, inspired by Jaipur’s palaces and home-cooked flavours. |
Moses Mabhida Stadium
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Website: https://www.mmstadium.com/
Address: 44 Isaiah Ntshangase Rd, Stamford Hill, Durban
Phone: 031 322 9956
Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban is a fantastic spot for a memorable proposal. The iconic 350-metre arch is not just a symbol of unity but also offers breathtaking views.
The world-class pitch is available for romantic surprises, and a stadium tour lets you explore the changerooms, tunnels, and suites. Surrounding the stadium is the People’s Park, perfect for relaxing, picnics, biking, and enjoying delicious food.
| Pro Tip: If you want to make your proposal even more special, you can try to coordinate with the stadium management and arrange for a message to be displayed on the big screen or announced on the loudspeaker. |
9th Avenue Waterside
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Website: https://www.9thavewaterside.co.za/
Address: 2 Maritime Pl, Harbour, Durban, 4001
Phone: +27 31 940 4628
Operating Hours:
- Lunch: Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 2:30 PM
- Lunch: Sunday – 12 PM to 3 PM
- Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday – 6 PM to 9:30 PM
Right in the heart of Durban’s harbour, 9th Avenue Waterside offers stunning views of the bay and skyline making it a great spot for a romantic proposal. The food is top-notch, with a mix of classic bistro dishes and creative fusion options.
The menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new to try. Plus, whether you prefer the cosy indoor setting or the spacious outdoor deck, the place ensures a memorable dining experience for you and your special someone.
| Pro Tip: Choose the Private Dining Room for a cosy marriage proposal with up to 8 guests. Just pay a R5000 minimum spend, and book ahead by putting down the deposit a month before your special day. |
Royal Durban Golf Club
Website: https://royaldurban.co.za/
Address: 7 Mitchell Cres, Greyville, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Phone: (031) 309 1373
Royal Durban Golf Club is a cool spot for a unique proposal in Durban. It’s located in the Greyville horse racing track, where they host the famous Hollywood Bets Durban July.
The golf course is both challenging and beautiful, with great views of the city and the Indian Ocean. After a round, you can treat your partner to a romantic dinner at their restaurant or book a gazebo for a special surprise proposal.
| Pro Tip: Time your proposal with the sunset or the fireworks display that often accompanies the horse races. This will add some extra sparkle and magic to your moment. |
Roma Revolving Restaurant
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Website: https://www.roma.co.za/
Address: 32 John Ross House, Jonsson Ln, Durban Central
Phone: 031 337 6707
Operating Hours:
- Sunday – 12 PM to 4 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 2 PM; 5:30 PM to 9 PM
- Tuesday to Friday – 5:30 PM to 9 PM
Roma Revolving Restaurant is the only real revolving restaurant in the southern hemisphere and the third worldwide. With stunning 360-degree views from the 32nd floor of the John Ross House, it’s a perfect setting.
You and your partner can enjoy tasty Italian dishes, from pasta to seafood, and savour their exclusive wine, River Gold, for a cosy and elegant atmosphere that adds a touch of history and culture to your special moment.
| Pro Tip: Book a table near the window and time it so that you can see the city lights as you pop the question. You can also ask the staff to help you with any special arrangements, such as flowers, music or champagne. |
Golden Mile
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Golden Mile in Durban is a fantastic spot for a romantic proposal. Stretching from uShaka Beach to Suncoast Casino, it offers beautiful views of the Indian Ocean and the city.
You’ll choose a pier, take a leisurely walk, and propose at sunset or sunrise for an extra touch of magic. The Golden Mile is not just a place; it’s an experience that will make your special day truly memorable.
| Pro Tip: If you want to avoid crowds and have more privacy, plan your proposal during the off-season (May to September) or the weekdays. You can also check the weather forecast and tide times to ensure optimal conditions for your special moment. |
Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani
Website: https://www.southernsun.com/
Address: 63 Snell Parade, North Beach, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Phone: +27 31 362 1300
Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, modern rooms, and a range of amenities.
You can choose a junior suite with a sea view, add flowers, champagne, and candles for a romantic setup, or propose in one of the hotel’s restaurants. You can also opt for the Sky Venue on the 31st floor for panoramic views of the city and the ocean.
| Pro Tip: Enhance your Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani dining experience with a view by arranging a helicopter ride through the concierge for unforgettable moments. |
Riverside Hotel
Website: https://riversidehotel.co.za/
Address: 10 Kenneth Kaunda Rd, Durban North, Durban, 4065, South Africa
Phone:+27 (0) 31 563 0600
The Riverside Hotel in Durban is a special place to pop the question, offering stunning views of both the Umgeni River and the Indian Ocean. The four-star hotel boasts plush rooms with kitchenettes.
Riverside Grill serves up tasty South African and European cuisine, and there’s a cool outdoor pool surrounded by rocks and trees for some R&R.
| Pro Tip: Get a room with a view of the river and ocean, and surprise your partner with a romantic dinner at Riverside Grill. Top it off by proposing on the balcony under the stars with ocean sounds in the background. |
Madevu Charters
Website: https://madevucharters.co.za/
Address: Wilsons Wharf, Durban Harbour, 18 Boatmans Rd, Durban Central
Phone:+27 (0) 81 470 0348 or +27 (0) 72 336 0450
Since 2006, Madevu Charters has been the spot for a romantic Durban proposal, offering different boats and packages. You’ve got a cruise on their fancy yachts, soaking in the city skyline and ocean views for that perfect moment.
Imagine asking the big question as the sun sets, holding a glass of bubbly, and your love right there with you. You can even add a special touch with dinner, music, and flowers.
| Pro Tip: If you want to surprise your partner, you can ask the crew to help you with the proposal. They can hide the ring, take photos or videos, or announce it over the speakers. |
Valley of a Thousand Hills
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With its scenic views of rolling hills and the Umgeni River, Valley of a Thousand Hills offers a unique and memorable proposal setting.
The area is rich in culture and adventure, providing options for diverse interests. Opt for a hilltop proposal, whether through a hike or by booking a spot at a lodge or guest house for a panoramic view.
| Pro Tip: Level up your Valley of a Thousand Hills experience with a romantic helicopter ride from BAC Helicopters. Land on a secluded hill for a surprise proposal, combining stunning views with a memorable dining moment. |
uShaka Marine World
Website: https://ushakamarine.com/
Address: 1 King Shaka Ave, Point, Durban
Phone: 031 328 8000
Operating Hours:
- Open Daily – 9 AM to 5 PM
uShaka Marine World in Durban is a great place for a unique proposal, with cool attractions on the Golden Mile. You can pop the question at the gigantic aquarium, surrounded by cool sea life and cultural vibes.
If you’re feeling adventurous, propose at the Dangerous Creatures exhibit and conquer your fear of venomous beings. No matter where you choose, uShaka Marine World is the perfect backdrop for your romantic moment.
| Pro Tip: For a special proposal at uShaka Marine World, get close to dolphins, seals, penguins, or sharks with a Sea Animal Encounter. Follow it up with a private dinner at uShaka Village Walk for delicious food and live entertainment. |
Havana Grill
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Website: https://www.suncoastcasino.co.za/dining/restaurants/havana-grill/
Address: Shop U2, Suncoast Casino, Battery Beach Rd, North Beach, Durban
Phone: +27 64 757 1141
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Havana Grill at Suncoast Casino in Durban’s Golden Mile is an ideal spot for a special proposal. This top-notch grill room and seafood joint offers fantastic food, a wide range of wines, and even imported Cuban cigars.
Picture enjoying a delicious meal while soaking in the stunning 180-degree views from the Bluff to Umhlanga Rocks. Since Havana Grill is a go-to for celebrations, be sure to reserve ahead and share your proposal plans.
| Pro Tip: Make your reservation well in advance, especially on weekends or holidays, as Havana Grill is very popular and often fully booked. You can book online through their website or by calling them directly. |
Hartford House
Website: https://www.hartford.co.za/
Address: Hlatikulu Road, Mooi River, 3300, South Africa
Phone:+27 33 263 1081
Hartford House is this cool boutique hotel on the Summerhill Equestrian Estate where you can stay in different suites, like garden or pool ones. Perfect for a romantic proposal, it’s got history, awesome views, and top-notch cuisine.
There’s a chapel with a view, a fancy 5-star restaurant, and a modern spot called The Tuinhuis. Plenty of activities such as canoeing, biking, fishing, and horse riding are available, and it’s close to Giant’s Castle and the Drakensberg mountains.
| Pro Tip: For a special meal in Hartford, book a Garden & Pool Suite with a private pool and veranda. Add a romantic touch by arranging a picnic or dinner in the beautiful gardens or by the ponds for a serene and intimate setting. |
Zulumoon Gondolas
Website: https://gondolas.co.za/
Address: 39 Timeball Blvd, Point, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Phone: +27 84 730 8784
Zulumoon Gondolas in Durban offers romantic boat rides on the Durban Waterfront Canal. They have different packages like the Picnic Gondola Boat Ride and the Message in a Bottle Gondola Boat Ride.
With a private gondola, a friendly gondolier, and special touches, your proposal will be unforgettable. It’s a top-rated experience in Durban, praised for its romantic vibes and positive customer reviews.
| Pro Tip: Elevate your proposal at Zulumoon Gondolas with a Magical Night Gondola Boat Ride featuring fairy lights, music, and a sweet surprise of a rose and chocolate. Add a live musician or photographer for an extra special touch. |
