The beautiful coastlines and numerous areas with natural scenery make Durban a perfect place for fun and contemplation in the sun. If you live within the metropolis, then you’re likely taking the landscape and atmosphere for granted – which is something almost everyone does after a year or two living in the same place. So put on the breaks, and prepare to see your surroundings anew, by taking a daycation in your city!

To start with head down to the Umhlanga pier and take a walk along it with your partner, or spend some time on your own enjoying the fresh sea breeze, sunshine, and rolling waves.

Umhlanga Rocks

The Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom is great day-stop. Here you can spend some time within the casino trying your hand at blackjack or poker. If you’re not a fan of the tables, try and catch one of the many shows that are held throughout the day.

While you’re in the Umhlanga area, visit the gargantuan Gateway Theatre Shopping Centre. It’s considered to be one of the biggest and best malls in South Africa, and you can browse the massive store selections and various fashions on offer. The mall isn’t just for adults as there is a SciCentre, indoor climbing wall, and Fantasy Forest, which children always enjoy. If you’ve brought your little ones with you on your daycation, rest assured they’ll be very entertained here.

A look at the Umhlanga Lighthouse. By ethekwinigirl (Flickr)

Check out the lighthouse … sure it may not be among the top things to do while here, but the view over the sun-speckled ocean is spectacular, so bring along a camera to capture the memory of your day out.

If you’re trying to unwind, but don’t fancy a stroll alongside the ocean, then take a boat ride out of Durban’s main harbour. Once you’re done, visit Allen Gardiner Harbour Cruise Restaurant. Here you can sample some of the fresh fish dishes, and if you have room afterwards, try one of the delicious desserts.

La Lucia

One of the best places to work on your summer tan is within the suburb of La Lucia. The quiet roads give way to a long stretch of beach that provides gentle waves and a welcoming family atmosphere. Don’t forget your sunscreen, towel, and a good book or music player. You get bonus points for wearing over-sized celebrity sunglasses. In season, this is one of the best places to whale watch.

A mother and baby vervet monkey. By Arno & Louise Wildlife (Flickr)

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve

If you’re a nature lover, then head to the Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve, just outside of the suburb of Yellow Wood Park. Within the 253 hectares are a diverse variety of eco-systems. As such, you’ll discover many of nature’s delights that hide within the coastal forest, bush, and grassland montage, such as playful vervet monkeys. There are 10km’s of walking trails, including ones for the disabled, which ensures you’ll have a relatively peaceful afternoon, with a chance to do some birding.

Ragged-tooth shark at uShaka Marine World. By champagne for monkeys (Flickr)Durban Metro

The bustling city centre offers a variety of attractions, from uShaka Marine World Water Park and Aquarium, to the various vendors selling cultural statues, artworks, and decorations. Along Parade road you’ll find the rickshaw drivers, and if you’ve never tried this method of transport, now is the time to indulge! You’ll feel just like a tourist as you’re pulled along on the three-wheeled carriage, and once you’re done, head to the Victoria Street Market to enjoy some eclectic shopping, and a snack.

Let us know where your favourite places and spaces are, and why they’re special.

Main image credited to sammix2008 (Flickr)