Family Fun in Durban: Where to Stay, Play, and Explore
When South Africans think of an easy, reliable family holiday, Durban almost always tops the list.
With its warm Indian Ocean waters, family-focused beaches, short flight times, and wide range of accommodation options, it’s a destination that works just as well for toddlers as it does for teens. Add great-value and flexible packages, and planning becomes refreshingly simple.
Whether you’re drawn to the laid-back pace of the South Coast and Blue Marlin beaches, the buzz of Ballito, the classic luxury of The Oyster Box, or the excitement around the new Club Med opening mid-year, holidays in Durban South Africa offer variety without complicated logistics.
This guide breaks down where to stay, what to do, and how to plan a family vacation in Durban that fits your budget and your travel style.
Quick snapshot: 4 key takeouts before you read on
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Durban is a year-round family destination, with warm weather, safe swimming beaches, and excellent indoor attractions.
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Accommodation suits every type of family, from self-catering resorts to luxury hotels and new all-inclusive holiday packages travellers will love.
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Beaches and attractions are child-friendly, especially along the South Coast and Ballito, with lifeguards and calm swimming areas.
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Booking with Thompsons simplifies budgeting, as we’ll match you to the best holiday package to suit your budget and needs.
What is the best month to go to Durban?
Durban can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the best months for families are April to June and September to November. These shoulder seasons bring warm temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer crowds – which often means better value for family travel.
December and January remain popular during school holidays, while winter months are mild and sunny, making outdoor activities comfortable even when other parts of South Africa are cooler.
Where to stay in Durban: areas families love
South Coast & Blue Marlin beaches
The South Coast is ideal for families looking for space, calm waters, and a relaxed pace. The Blue Marlin Hotel, located right on the beach, offers family-friendly accommodation with easy access to clean sands, lifeguard-supervised swimming areas, and tidal pools perfect for young children. With self-catering options and direct beach access, parents can easily manage meals, naps, and downtime while the kids enjoy the sun and surf.
Ballito (North Coast)
Ballito offers a great balance between beach life and modern convenience. Families enjoy walkable promenades, safe swimming beaches, shopping centres, and medical facilities close by. It’s a popular choice for families looking for a Durban holiday package that offers comfortable accommodation, easy access to beaches and attractions, and plenty of activities for all ages.
Umhlanga & The Oyster Box
For families wanting to add a special touch to their stay, Umhlanga delivers. The Oyster Box is one of Durban’s most recognisable hotels, offering excellent service, family-friendly dining, and easy access to beaches and attractions.
Club Med South Africa (opening mid-year)
The arrival of Club Med is set to transform family travel to Durban. With all-inclusive holiday packages Durban families can rely on, accommodation, meals, kids’ clubs, and activities are bundled into one easy plan – ideal for parents who want a holiday without constant decision-making.
How to choose the right family accommodation in Durban
The best place to stay in Durban depends on how your family likes to holiday.
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Travelling with young children?
Resorts with kids’ activities, easy beach access, and self-catering options work best. The South Coast and Blue Marlin beaches are especially popular for relaxed family stays.
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Holidaying with older kids or teens?
Ballito and Umhlanga are great choices, thanks to nearby beaches, cinemas, shopping centres, and restaurants – perfect for mixing beach time with indoor activities.
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Want a hassle-free option?
All-inclusive holiday packages in Durban, such as the new Club Med opening mid-year, bundle meals, activities, and entertainment into one upfront cost, making budgeting far simpler.
No matter your travel style, Thompsons will match you to the best holiday package to suit your budget and needs.
What Durban attractions are best for families with young children?
Durban has a strong mix of fun and educational attractions that are easy to slot between beach days.
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uShaka Marine World for aquariums, water slides, and marine shows
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Mitchell Park Zoo, ideal for younger children
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Durban Botanical Gardens for picnics and open spaces
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Mini Town, where kids can see Durban recreated in miniature
These attractions are close together, making it easier to plan shorter outings without tiring younger travellers.
What to do indoors in Durban?
Indoor activities are handy for hot days, rainy weather, or when kids need a change of pace.
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Gateway Theatre of Shopping for cinemas, family restaurants, and entertainment zones
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Museums like the Natural Science Museum and Phansi Museum
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Indoor play centres in Ballito and Umhlanga
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Cultural attractions that combine learning with air-conditioned comfort
These options make Durban a dependable choice for family travel throughout the year.
What are popular beach activities for families in Durban?
Durban’s beaches are designed with families in mind.
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Swimming at lifeguard-protected beaches
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Exploring tidal pools along the South Coast
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Beach walks and sandcastle building
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Surf lessons for older children
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Dolphin spotting early in the morning
Thanks to warm ocean temperatures, swimming and water activities are possible for most of the year.
Making budgeting easier with Durban holiday packages
One of the biggest advantages of booking Durban holiday packages is cost control. Flights, accommodation, and sometimes meals and activities are bundled together, helping families avoid unexpected expenses. Durban holiday packages for family travel also reduce planning time – a big win for busy parents.
Plan your Durban family holiday with confidence
From the relaxed beaches of the South Coast and Blue Marlin areas to Ballito’s energy, the timeless appeal of The Oyster Box, and the upcoming Club Med, Durban continues to deliver for South African family holidays. It’s easy to reach, easy to enjoy, and packed with activities that work across age groups.
When you’re ready to plan your next family vacation in Durban, chat to Thompsons. As travel experts, we’ll help guide you by answering your questions, recommending the right area and accommodation, and matching you to the best-value holiday package for your family’s needs.
