The aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga is widely praised for its prime location, conveniently situated next to the Gateway Mall. This placement offers guests easy access to shopping, dining and entertainment, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. The hotel’s proximity to the beach, freeways and essential amenities enhances its value as a traveler’s hub.
Guests frequently commend the hotel’s breakfast for its extensive variety and excellent quality. The buffet includes a wide range of fresh and cooked options and the friendly staff further enhance the breakfast experience. Dinner at the hotel's restaurant also receives high praise, particularly highlighting the variety and quality of the menu, although some did encounter service issues and found the prices on the higher side.
Rooms at the hotel are generally described as spacious, clean and comfortable with modern designs. Many guests appreciate the big, comfortable beds and the cleanliness maintained by the housekeeping staff. However, some reviews point out the lack of basic amenities such as bar fridges and microwaves and occasional maintenance issues like faulty air conditioning.
The high standards of cleanliness are a consistent theme in the reviews with guests often highlighting the spotless rooms and well-maintained common areas. The hotel staff are frequently described as friendly, professional and efficient, significantly contributing to a pleasant stay. Specific team members receive commendations for their outstanding service, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
The pool area, particularly the rooftop pool, is a notable feature praised for its cleanliness and pleasant ambiance. Despite some mentions of early closing times and limited pool sizes, the area is generally well-received, especially by families.
Family-friendliness is another strong aspect of the hotel with safe environments appreciated by guests traveling with children. Family rooms and secure parking options add to the comfort and convenience for families, although there are suggestions for more child-specific activities and menu options.
Parking availability and accessibility present a mix of positive and negative experiences. While some guests find the parking secure and well-managed, others report difficulties with space limitations and accessibility, especially during events.
The free WiFi service appears to be a common point of dissatisfaction among guests with many noting issues with connectivity and speed.
Overall, the aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga offers a comfortable and convenient stay with notable highlights in its location, breakfast, cleanliness and staff service. Some areas like WiFi, parking and room amenities could benefit from improvements to enhance the overall guest experience.
Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Durban Umhlanga Ridge is highly recommended for its prime location in Umhlanga, providing easy access to the Gateway Shopping Centre, restaurants, the Virgin Active gym and serene beaches. It is convenient for both business and leisure travelers, being close to the airport and main highways. The hotel is appreciated for its cleanliness, spacious rooms and excellent service. Guests particularly enjoy the garden seating area and swimming pool, though some note the bustling environment can be a bit noisy.
The breakfast offerings at the hotel receive significant praise, referred to as excellent and world-class with a variety of fresh selections catering to various dietary preferences. The overall pleasant ambiance and impressive service from the breakfast staff are highlights, though some mention issues like long queues and high prices. Dinner experiences vary with many guests appreciating the quality and deliciousness of the food along with excellent service, despite some concerns regarding menu limitations and slow service.
Rooms are generally favored for their comfort, modern decor and cleanliness. They are described as spacious and visually appealing with family rooms being particularly appreciated for their suitability for children. A few minor issues such as insufficient towels and smaller-than-expected rooms are noted but do not significantly detract from the overall positive experience. Extensive cleanliness throughout the hotel, including rooms and common areas, reinforces its welcoming and modern feel.
The staff are frequently commended for their exceptional service, characterized by helpfulness, professionalism and a warm, welcoming attitude. Their friendliness and efficiency, especially at the reception, enhance guest experiences. While there are a few reports of less favorable interactions, the overall positive and consistent friendliness of the staff stands out.
WiFi services receive mixed feedback, generally praised for being stable and quick in rooms, but noted to be weaker and inconsistent in common areas. The gym also receives mixed reviews with some guests noting basic facilities and non-functional equipment, while others find it adequately equipped and useful.
The pool areas, including a rooftop pool with great views, are well-received for their attractiveness and cleanliness, despite occasional overcrowding and a desire for more sun loungers. The hotel provides secure parking options, appreciated for safety and convenience, although some guests are dissatisfied with the additional parking fees.
Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Durban Umhlanga Ridge is also recognized for its family-friendly environment. Spacious family rooms and a fun kids' area contribute to a memorable stay for families, despite a few logistical issues like towel provision and additional charges.
Overall, Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Durban Umhlanga Ridge enjoys acclaim for its prime location, cleanliness, comfort, exceptional staff service and family-friendly amenities, making it a solid choice for visitors to Durban Umhlanga Ridge.
City Lodge Hotel Umhlanga Ridge generally receives positive reviews across various aspects, making it a well-regarded choice for travelers.
The hotel's central location is highly praised, offering easy access to Gateway Shopping Mall, nearby restaurants and major roads, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. This prime positioning is a standout feature, enhancing the overall convenience and accessibility for guests.
Breakfast at the hotel is widely enjoyed, described as excellent, delicious and accompanied by good service. Though some guests find it a bit pricey and wish for more variety, the quality of the food and the attentive service are consistently appreciated.
Dinner experiences are more mixed with some guests commending the high-quality food and pleasant staff, while others note limited vegetarian options and room for improvement in variety and meal quality. Nonetheless, the staff's friendliness and the hotel’s prime location provide ample dining alternatives nearby.
The rooms are spacious, clean and comfortable with modern decor and kid-friendly amenities like TV shows for children. However, guests mention areas for improvement such as outdated elements, lack of essential amenities, occasional noise and inconsistent cleanliness.
Cleanliness generally receives positive feedback with many noting well-maintained and tidy rooms. There are occasional issues with housekeeping standards, but the cleaning staff's friendliness and efficiency are often highlighted.
The hotel staff is frequently described as friendly, welcoming and professional, significantly enhancing the guest experience. Guests appreciate the warmth and efficiency of the front desk and reception team. However, some experienced slow service in the restaurant, indicating areas for improvement.
WiFi connectivity receives mixed reviews. While many guests find it strong and fast, others mention occasional weak and unstable connections. Nonetheless, the overall feedback suggests a generally reliable internet experience.
The pool area is a notable highlight, praised for its refreshing experience and scenic views, though occasional late-night use by guests is mentioned.
Parking facilities are appreciated for their security and accessibility, despite minor criticisms about small bays and some congestion. The parking’s proximity to the freeway adds to the hotel's convenience.
For families, the hotel offers kid-friendly amenities, game areas and a safe, peaceful atmosphere. The layout is convenient for family navigation and specific rooms like Room 44 receive positive remarks for comfort.
Beds at the hotel are generally well-regarded for their comfort, contributing to restful sleep. While some guests have differing preferences regarding firmness, the clean and comfortable bedding garners many positive mentions.
Lastly, as a three-star establishment, City Lodge Hotel Umhlanga Ridge meets basic expectations with clean rooms, comfortable beds and attentive housekeeping. Some reviews suggest areas for improvement, including facility upgrades and addressing issues like cold bathing water, to enhance the overall experience.
In summary, City Lodge Hotel Umhlanga Ridge offers a convenient, comfortable stay with standout location, friendly staff and good amenities, though there are areas identified for improvement to ensure an even better guest experience.
The Royal Palm Hotel & Apartments by BON Hotels presents a compelling option for travelers with its prime location and ample amenities. Nestled in a convenient and peaceful environment, the hotel is strategically situated near major attractions, shopping centers, restaurants and the beach, making it an excellent base for exploring the area. The nearby Gateway Mall and numerous dining options within walking distance enhance the convenience factor significantly.
Guests often laud the spacious, clean and comfortable rooms, which are well-equipped and maintained by a friendly and efficient housekeeping team. The modern facilities and overall cleanliness contribute positively to the guest experience. Families, in particular, appreciate the large, cozy rooms, which offer great value for money and cater well to children and teens. Additionally, secure and free parking facilities add an extra layer of convenience, although some guests mentioned the need for improved signage and navigation around the parking area.
The hotel staff are typically described as friendly, polite and accommodating, enhancing the overall ambiance and guest satisfaction. Front desk and housekeeping personnel receive specific praise for their professionalism and helpfulness. Nevertheless, some occasional lapses in service quality and responsiveness are noted, suggesting areas for improvement in consistency and management.
Dining experiences at the Royal Palm Hotel & Apartments by BON Hotels are somewhat mixed. Breakfast receives commendation for its delicious offerings and variety, although there are mentions of limited options and high prices with guests recommending better catering to dietary needs. Dinner, served at the Thyme Restaurant, also attracts mixed reviews; while some guests enjoy the buffet options and service, others have noted issues with food quality, service speed and the overall dining experience.
While free WiFi is available, many guests encounter connectivity issues, particularly in the rooms, highlighting a need for more reliable internet service. On the other hand, the clean and safe environment, combined with friendly staff, contribute significantly to a positive and comfortable stay.
Overall, the Royal Palm Hotel & Apartments by BON Hotels provides an attractive accommodation choice, especially for those looking for a central location with easy access to various amenities and attractions. The hotel’s strong points lie in its spacious and clean rooms, helpful staff and advantageous positioning, making it a suitable option for both leisure and family travelers. However, there are clear areas for improvement, particularly in dining services, WiFi connectivity and parking assistance, which, if addressed, could significantly enhance the guest experience.
The Holiday Inn Express Durban - Umhlanga by IHG, is widely celebrated for its prime location, nestled near the beach and major malls like Gateway Shopping Centre and Oceans Mall. The hotel offers easy access to key attractions, highways and the serene environment of Umhlanga, making it a perfect retreat for both leisure and business travelers. Guests are particularly impressed with the stunning sea views and the high level of cleanliness maintained throughout the property.
The breakfast experience generally garners positive remarks with guests appreciating the variety and quality of food, despite calls for more diverse options and dietary accommodations. The in-house restaurant, The Butcher Block, is lauded for its delicious offerings, though some guests noted the lack of dinner and room service options as a drawback.
Rooms are praised for their cleanliness and comfort, featuring modern layouts and comfortable beds, although some reviews point out issues like outdated furniture and small room sizes. Interlinked family rooms and spectacular sea views are a hit with guests, yet there are suggestions for room upgrades and the addition of more convenient amenities.
Staff at the hotel stand out for their exceptional service with many guests emphasizing their friendliness, professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile. Specific staff members are frequently commended for their outstanding service, contributing significantly to a pleasant stay experience.
The hotel provides free WiFi, which is generally reliable and fast though some guests experience occasional connectivity issues. The gym and pool receive mixed reviews with the pool being appreciated for its cleanliness and refreshing environment despite critiques on maintenance, size and operational hours. Parking is noted for its safety and convenience, although the additional costs and limited spaces are areas of concern.
Holiday Inn Express Durban - Umhlanga is seen as a family-friendly hotel, offering a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Families enjoy the various amenities, although the small size of family rooms and the lack of certain conveniences like microwaves are common points of critique.
In summary, the Holiday Inn Express Durban - Umhlanga by IHG, provides a comfortable and convenient stay with its prime location, clean and modern facilities and exceptional staff service. Some areas like room size, dietary options and additional amenities could benefit from improvements to enhance the overall guest experience further.
Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch is celebrated primarily for its exceptional location and modern aesthetics. Situated in the heart of Umhlanga, it offers close proximity to the beach, shopping centers like Gateway Mall and a variety of restaurants and bars, providing both leisure and business travelers with easy access to amenities. The hotel is lauded for its safety, beautiful sea views and tranquil environment with additional highlights being its cleanliness, modern rooms and well-maintained facilities.
The breakfast experience garners positive reviews for its delicious, freshly prepared dishes and extensive buffet variety, including kid-friendly items. Guests appreciate the quality and cleanliness, though some suggest improvements in variety and price value. Dinner receives mixed feedback with commendations for its delicious food and varied options. However, some guests note slow service and limited menu flexibility.
Rooms are praised for their stylish decor, cleanliness and comfort, though some find them small and report occasional service delays. The friendly and accommodating staff significantly enhance the guest experience, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere across the board. Cleanliness is a standout feature with guests consistently noting the super clean rooms and fresh linens.
Complimentary WiFi is generally reliable and strong, though some guests encounter initial access issues. The gym is well-regarded for its quality, cleanliness and 24-hour access, while the outdoor heated pool receives positive remarks for its pleasant temperature and cleanliness, despite some concerns about towel availability and opening hours.
Parking presents challenges with its complicated logistics and additional costs, which some guests find frustrating. Despite this, the family-friendly environment stands out with special activities for children and thoughtful amenities, creating a warm and enjoyable stay for families. Lastly, the hotel's comfortable beds are frequently praised, contributing to a restful and satisfying guest experience.
The Protea Hotel by Marriott Durban Umhlanga is celebrated for its exceptional location, providing easy access to the beach, a variety of restaurants, shopping centers like Oceans Mall and Pearls Mall and key attractions such as Ushaka Marine and the boardwalk. Its proximity to the airport, stunning ocean views and safe parking further enhance its appeal for both beachgoers and visitors looking to explore the vibrant surroundings.
Guests commend the breakfast offerings at the hotel, highlighting the delicious, diverse selection with fresh fruits and well-prepared hot dishes. The friendly and helpful staff contribute to the pleasant breakfast experience. However, some guests believe that the breakfast could benefit from more variety and dietary options with a few considering it overpriced.
While the hotel lacks an in-house dinner restaurant and room service, its central location amidst numerous dining options makes this less of an issue. Guests appreciate the convenience of nearby eateries and the vibrant neighborhood atmosphere.
The rooms receive positive feedback for their spaciousness, cleanliness and modern decor. Guests enjoy beautiful ocean views, comfortable beds and good room amenities, despite occasional issues such as limited TV channels, unpleasant smells and inconsistent housekeeping services.
Cleanliness is a strong point with guests frequently praising the hotel as extremely clean, modern and well-maintained. The friendly and attentive staff, particularly at the front desk and housekeeping, enhance the guests' experience, making them feel welcomed and well looked after. However, there are occasional reports of lapses in room cleaning services.
The staff at the hotel are frequently commended for their friendliness, professionalism and exceptional service. Guests highlight individual staff members for their welcoming and helpful demeanor, contributing to a warm and accommodating environment.
The wifi experience receives mixed reviews with some guests finding the connection poor and spotty. There is a general consensus that improvement is needed to better meet the needs of business and leisure travelers.
The pool area, although clean and eye-catching, is often described as small and crowded, detracting from the relaxing experience. Nevertheless, the hotel's close proximity to a clean and safe beach offers a convenient alternative for seaside enjoyment.
Parking at the hotel is viewed positively for its safety, security and reasonable rates, though some guests find the parking area tight and navigation challenging. Additional parking fees and the need for better communication regarding these costs are noted concerns.
The hotel is family-friendly, offering spacious rooms that comfortably accommodate families. The attentive and friendly staff make the stay pleasant for families with children, despite minor issues such as insufficient drinking water and a small pool. Overall, the hotel stands out as an excellent choice for family vacations.
In summary, Protea Hotel by Marriott Durban Umhlanga delivers a largely positive experience with its prime location, comfortable accommodations and welcoming staff, making it a highly recommended choice for visitors seeking convenience and vibrant surroundings in Umhlanga.
Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel is a highly recommended 5-star boutique hotel that offers guests a luxurious and comfortable experience. The hotel is located in a stunning location with breathtaking views of the ocean and is close to the airport, major malls and routes. The breakfast is consistently described as excellent and exceeding expectations with a great variety of options to choose from. The dinner experience is fantastic with delicious and amazing food, although there were a few errors with some dishes. The rooms are spacious, beautiful, clean and comfortable with modern and pleasing interiors, comfortable beds and luxurious amenities. The hotel is also very clean and well-maintained with exceptional customer service from the friendly and accommodating staff. The pool area is aesthetically pleasing and provides a breathtaking view and the beds are beautifully designed and super comfy. While some guests feel that the hotel falls short of its advertised five-star status, the facilities and services available are top-notch and capable of wowing anyone. Overall, guests can enjoy endless luxury and comfort at the Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel.
Despite some hiccups in accommodating business travelers, First Group Breakers Resort - Official offers spacious and clean rooms that some guests appreciated. However, poor WiFi connectivity and limited amenities left a bad taste in the mouths of several guests. The hotel failed to communicate beforehand about renovations, which led to certain areas being closed off. While it's uncertain whether business travelers will return, it's clear that more attention needs to be paid to their needs to make their stay as productive as possible.
The Riverside Hotel is widely praised across various categories, making it a strong choice for travelers visiting Durban. Its prime location is a standout feature, nestled in a serene neighborhood yet offering convenient access to the heart of the city and the beach. Guests enjoy the stunning views from certain rooms, which showcase the lagoon, ocean and cityscape of Durban. Safety and accessible on-site facilities, including secure parking and diverse dining options, further enhance the overall experience.
The breakfast offerings at The Riverside Hotel receive high marks for variety and flavor with an excellent buffet setup that includes delicious omelets and well-organized service. While vegetarians and non-pork eaters may find options limited and tour groups can sometimes monopolize the buffet, the breakfast is generally well-regarded and considered worth the price.
Rooms at the hotel are described as spacious, clean and comfortable, featuring modern amenities suitable for families. Many guests appreciate the daily cleaning and the peaceful ambiance of the accommodations. However, there are occasional maintenance issues such as old beds and minor repairs needed, which some guests have noted.
Cleanliness is a mixed area with many guests commending the spotless and well-maintained state of their rooms and the premises. However, there are also reports of inconsistencies, particularly regarding bathroom hygiene and daily housekeeping standards.
The hotel's staff consistently earns high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests often highlight the exceptional service provided by individuals like Mannie in the restaurant and Cyril the bartender. While some guests felt that certain reception staff could improve their attitude, the overall impression of the staff is overwhelmingly positive.
The family-friendly environment of The Riverside Hotel is another notable aspect with dedicated amenities such as a kids-friendly pool and play area. Families find the hotel accommodating, though some suggest the family rooms could be larger. Beds receive mixed reviews with most guests finding them spacious and comfortable, despite occasional issues with older or harder mattresses.
In summary, The Riverside Hotel offers a blend of centrality, comfort, beautiful views and excellent service, making it a highly recommended destination for travelers seeking to experience the best of Durban. With some attention to maintenance and housekeeping, the hotel could further enhance its already strong reputation.
Suncoast Towers is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Durban on the iconic Durban Promenade, offering 5-star accommodations with 37 rooms and suites featuring panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and easy beach access. The hotel provides modern amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, mini bars and 24-hour in-room dining. Guests can enjoy the luxurious Suncoast Spa, swimming pool and stunning views. For business travelers, the hotel offers a sophisticated boardroom and a virtual office, as well as proximity to the adjacent Suncoast Casino for entertainment. Dining options include the on-site Jeera Restaurant and The Hotel Bar, with in-room dining service available. Suncoast Towers also provides a range of services and amenities, including a fitness center, free uncapped Wi-Fi, Suncoast Casino access and a visually therapeutic spa experience at the Suncoast Spa. Hotel staff are available to assist with car rentals, transfers, shuttle services, and other guest needs.
Summary of reviews
Overall, the Suncoast Hotel & Towers hotel is highly recommended by guests who value its stunning beachfront location and beautiful views. The ease of access to the beach is appreciated by many with some suggesting an extended beach service would be a great addition to the already impressive hotel amenities. The hotel's delicious food also wins over many guests. If you're looking for a perfect combination of beach, stunning views and great dining, look no further than the Suncoast Hotel & Towers hotel.
Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani is a fantastic hotel for families looking for a fun and relaxing vacation. The hotel offers a swimming pool, bar and restaurant, as well as a well-equipped entertainment room to keep children entertained. Although some families found the family rooms to be small and overpriced, many guests had a wonderful stay and made unforgettable memories with their little ones. The welcome drinks for kids were a nice touch and the hotel's location is perfect for exploring the area. Just be aware of school kids playing in the passages at night. Overall, Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani is a great choice for families looking for a fun and relaxing vacation.
Hilton Durban is a highly recommended hotel that excels in various aspects, making it a standout choice for travelers visiting the city. Its prime location in the heart of Durban provides unmatched convenience for both leisure and business guests. Positioned near the International Convention Center, it offers easy access to key landmarks, shopping malls, and cultural sites, including the beach and local markets. Guests consistently appreciate the hotel’s stunning sea views and its proximity to major highways, enhancing their overall experience.
The dining experience at Hilton Durban receives widespread acclaim, particularly for its breakfast and dinner offerings. Guests highlight the exceptional quality and variety of the breakfast buffet, which includes popular Indian dishes, providing a satisfying start to the day. Dinner at the hotel also impresses, with notable mentions of the diverse and high-quality buffet that features thematic nights and a delightful curry selection, ensuring a notable culinary experience.
Visitors commend the hotel rooms for their spaciousness, cleanliness, and stylish decor, contributing to a comfortable and luxurious stay. The rooms' well-maintained interiors, coupled with breathtaking views, ensure an inviting atmosphere. While occasional mentions of room odors exist, the overall sentiment underscores the excellent condition of the accommodations. The comfort of the beds is particularly noteworthy, with guests frequently praising their quality and support, pledging restful nights.
The hotel’s staff is frequently praised for their friendliness and professionalism, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The team's commitment to enhancing guests' experiences through prompt and courteous service is a significant asset, contributing greatly to the hotel’s positive reputation. The hotel's five-star rating is well earned, with many guests expressing their satisfaction with the luxurious ambiance and high-quality service that rival those of globally renowned hospitality establishments.
For business travelers, Hilton Durban offers tailored amenities such as private business sections and a remarkable business lounge, making it an excellent choice for work-related stays. The hotel’s facilities, alongside its seamless blend of convenience and comfort, create an ideal environment for both professional and leisure activities.
Overall, Hilton Durban consistently delivers an exceptional experience marked by its excellent location, superb dining, comfortable accommodations, and exemplary service. The hotel successfully combines luxury with a homely feeling, establishing itself as a top choice for visitors seeking both rest and enjoyment in Durban.
Overall, 'The Edward' is a fantastic hotel for those seeking a beachfront vacation. The hotel offers stunning ocean views that guests have raved about and the proximity to the beach is unbeatable. Although some wished for beachfront rooms, even those situated near the beach provide an amazing central view. Falling asleep and waking up to the sound of the ocean is a dream come true for guests. Despite the lack of air conditioning in the sea-facing rooms, guests still highly recommend them. If you're looking for a getaway by the ocean, 'The Edward' is an excellent choice.
The Capital Zimbali receives high praise across a variety of categories, making it an attractive destination for both leisure and business travelers. Its exceptional location, just minutes away from King Shaka Airport, offers tranquility, stunning sea views and beautiful surroundings, providing a perfect escape for relaxation. The well-secured private domain and convenient access to local amenities further enhance the appeal. The onsite dining options, particularly for vegetarians, coupled with excellent service and professional staff, add to the positive experience.
The breakfast experience is a standout, frequently lauded for its rich variety, quality and deliciousness. Guests highlight the impressive buffet spread and excellent service, complemented by stunning views from the breakfast area. While the dinner experience has mixed reviews, specific venues like the Copper restaurant and buffet dinners with live music are particularly well-regarded.
Rooms at The Capital Zimbali are consistently praised for their spaciousness, beautiful décor and modern furnishings. The cleanliness of the rooms and public spaces is frequently highlighted, though minor maintenance issues have been noted. The hotel staff receive acclaim for their friendliness, professionalism and helpfulness, significantly enhancing the guest experience.
The hotel's amenities, including a great Wi-Fi service, well-reviewed spa, expansive and well-maintained pool area and private beach, are frequently mentioned positively. The beach, in particular, is described as clean and stunning, adding a therapeutic and relaxing element to the stay.
Families find The Capital Zimbali to be an ideal holiday spot with numerous activities designed for children and family-friendly facilities. The comfortable beds contribute to a restful stay, despite minor issues with pillows and occasional bedding cleanliness.
For business travelers, The Capital Zimbali meets all the necessary standards with functional business centers and well-equipped conference rooms, ensuring a blend of work and relaxation. Overall, The Capital Zimbali offers a superbly enjoyable stay with its excellent facilities, professional service and beautiful surroundings, making it a top choice for a memorable getaway.