The Oyster Box Gallery
A national treasure, we are South Africa’s most cherished hotel. Standing majestically on Umhlanga’s beachfront, overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic lighthouse, discover our timeless elegance.
Enjoy a multitude of dining options, including our famous curry feast and High Tea, and indulge in our award-winning spa amid tropical gardens.
Setting the Standard
Old world charm with modern day comfort
With 86 luxurious rooms, suites and villas to choose from, The Oyster Box meets the individual needs of every visitor. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, a family group or solo, each room is superbly designed to provide the utmost comfort and style at your home away from home.
Dining at The Oyster Box is an extraordinary experience.
Sublime cuisine using the freshest seasonal ingredients will tempt and delight - of course incredible oysters are on the menu - even for breakfast accompanied by Champagne should you wish! Our numerous restaurants and bars offer something for everyone, with fresh seafood, incredible steaks and our famous curry feast. Our delicious and indulgent High Tea is also a firm favourite with plenty of treats to tempt you. Dine together overlooking magnificent views, dine privately with a group of friends or dine at the Chef's table and watch the magic happen first hand - there's so much choice.
The Ocean Terrace - Incredible Ocean views
The beautiful Ocean Terrace restaurant, with gorgeous views across the Indian Ocean, serves a Bistro-style menu and is perfect for casual, al fresco and family dining. With something to suit every palate favourite dishes include freshly baked pizzas from the wood-fire pizza oven, sustainably sourced seafood and a host of perennial favourites such as fish and chips. The Ocean Terrace also serves a delicious English Breakfast daily, as well as an a la carte menu for lunch and dinner.
Also on offer in the Ocean Terrace, the incredible Curry Buffet, including authentic Tandoori Chicken, continues to attract fans from far and wide. Using delicate hand-blended combinations of spices and fresh herbs, the extensive selection of Curries includes, meat, fish and vegetarian option - making each curry a masterpiece!
The Ocean Terrace is also the perfect backdrop for a relaxed sundowner overlooking the rim flow pool and sea.
The Grill Room - Perfection for the palate
The legendary Grill Room has been renowned for its fine dining and outstanding cuisine for almost 70 years.
Under the culinary leadership of Executive Chef, Kevin Joseph, the menu is an inspired combination of classic favourites, created by Bea Tollman, president and founder of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, the restaurant’s Signature Dishes and contemporary creations, inspired by current global trends.
Classic Grill Room touches include the authentic Gueridon service, where food is prepared and presented at the individual diner’s table and the Classic 1920’s Hors d’ Oeuvres Trolley, with an extensive range of 18 ‘old world’ appetizers.
With over 50 years of experience, Maître‘d Hendry Pakiri, still presides over the elegant dining room.
The Palm Court - Lush green palms and Natural sunlight
Inspired by The Oyster Box’s original, architecture with four magnificent tole and ceramic chandeliers purchased from the Savoy Hotel in London, natural sunlight and towering Palms, The Palm Court is the venue for the legendary High Tea each afternoon. It’s also a favourite meeting spot for casual dining and the ideal place to enjoy the Evening Indulgence treat.
High Tea is a lengthy, leisurely affair with live piano music providing a welcome addition to the occasion. All pastries and baked goods are prepared on the property by our wonderful pastry team. The high tea table is a visual and taste spectacle of sumptuous treats, with everything from freshly baked scones, pastries, quiches and cakes, to finger sandwiches and savouries.
The Evening Indulgence, served in the Palm Court from 18h00 to 21h00, makes for a perfect post-dinner or late afternoon treat.
Extraordinary Breakfast Buffet
Start your morning in style with our Full English Breakfast, served daily in Ocean Terrace and Palm Court from 7:00am – 10:30am.
The generous breakfast buffet, coupled with fresh Oysters and a selection of hot and cold dishes, not to forget plenty of bubbly, can be enjoyed inside the restaurant or, weather permitting, on our spectacular terrace.
Incredible Curry Buffet
The Curry Buffet in the Ocean Terrace Restaurant continues to attract fans from far and wide. Set in the casual, Mediterranean-inspired Ocean Terrace, with gorgeous views across the Indian Ocean, the impressive curry selection, of at least 11 curries daily, includes meat, fish and vegetarian options. Using delicate blends of spices and fresh herbs, each curry is a masterpiece in itself.
From the delicate flavours of the Singapore Fish Curry, using the freshest fish of the day, to the spicy, hot Lamb Vindaloo and smooth-textured Butter Chicken. Vegetarian options delight as Bean and Botie sit side-by-side with, Vegetable Korma and Sugar-Bean Curry. The city’s famous Chicken and Prawn Curry and the Oyster Box’s signature Traditional Durban Lamb Curry remain firm favourites.
Accompanied by fresh, home-made condiments including lime and vegetable pickle, home-made Chutneys, Raitas, Sambals and freshly baked Naan breads, Papadums and Roti, the Curry Buffet, compels diners to return time and again.
Two Tandoori ovens guarantee authentic, freshly prepared Tandoori chicken, also available on the Buffet.
The Chef's Table - Take your place at the table
If you’re a foodie looking for something a little ‘out of the ordinary’, need a unique event menu, or are keen to impress somebody special - then don’t miss the opportunity to take a front row seat with Executive Chef Kevin Joseph and his ace Team, for an extraordinary dining experience at The Chef’s Table in The Kitchen at The Oyster Box.
Your evening begins in the elegant Oyster Bar with pre-dinner drinks and live music from our resident musician, before being taken ‘behind the scenes’ where your culinary journey begins, with a tour of the working kitchen and your amuse bouche of Champagne and Canapes.
As the drama of this busy kitchen in ‘full service’ mode unfolds, watch as the Chefs prepare a delicious 5-course paired menu before your eyes. The Chef’s Table is available for groups of between six and 10 guests, from from Monday to Sunday for Dinner only.
Wine Cellar Private Dining
For a more intimate dining experience, the Wine Cellar, with its glass ceiling, is sunken just below the Oyster Bar and is unique for dinner parties, corporate functions, tastings or special events and offers a Chef’s Table for up to 10 guests.
Bespoke menus are created for every occasion and the resident Sommelier will present a selection of wines from the Diners Club Diamond award-winning wine list, which boasts the finest selection of South African and international vintages.
Fine Wines - Savour an award-winning wine experience from our Cellar
Showcasing the quality of wines that we produce in our country, The Oyster Box’s extensive, award-winning wine list comprises predominantly of South African wines, whilst also catering to the palates of our international visitors. We have a range of Grand Cru class Bordeaux bottles that have been privately cellared for our use, as well an international selection from Italy, New Zealand, Australia, Burgundy and Bordeaux.
The list is structured according to grape varietal and region and includes wines from all the main wine producing regions in South Africa. Notable are David Nieuwoudt Ghost Corner Sauvignon Blanc, which won ‘Best in Show’ in the Decanter World Wine Awards and an Italian Varietals section, recently added, to showcase the diversity of wines that South Africa produces.
The Oyster Box’s wine list has been awarded 'Diamond' in the Diner's Club Awards since 2010 and received ‘Three Flutes’, the competition’s highest accolade in the ‘Long Wine Lists’ category, in the South African Wine List of the Year Awards in 2012. In 2013, The Oyster Box wine list was rated ‘Outstanding’ in the Top 20 SA Wine Lists competition.
Breathtaking panoramic views in a stylish setting
The Oyster Box is an impressive venue in its own right, and the choice of three bars are no exception for guests and locals alike. Each with an individual identity, The Oyster Bar, Lighthouse Bar and Chukka Bar offer spectacular interiors, incredible views, cocktails to die for, live music and wonderful menus.
So whether you're relaxing with a loved one to enjoy cocktails at sunset, partying with friends into the night, or meeting colleagues over a morning coffee or lunchtime dining, there is the right venue to suit the occasion.
The Lighthouse Bar
The Lighthouse Bar is one of Durban’s hottest spots and offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and the iconic red and white Umhlanga lighthouse.
Highlights
The Oyster Bar
With its long marble bar The Oyster Bar is one of the hotel’s most popular meeting places. Whether for coffee, a business meeting, pre-dinner drinks with friends, sundowners or cocktails, this venue buzzes with an energy and activity all of its own.
Highlights
The Chukka Bar
Occupying the same spot for over 50 years, the Chukka Bar, is brimming over with old world charm, character and memories. Filled with Polo memorabilia, an intimate bar and comfortable lounging area, the Chukka Bar is a firm favourite with locals.
Highlights
We proudly offer a number of services and amenities to cater for all guests, including your four-legged ‘family members’, with thoughtful touches placed in-room to ensure your stay is a memorable one.
Relax at one of the two pools on the property or enjoy direct access to the Umhlanga beach, where we will arrange beach chairs, towels and an umbrella to keep you comfortable whilst lazing in the sun. Durban’s sub-tropical climate means that you can enjoy the outdoors all year round.
The Cinema
The latest film releases in our private cinema
An intimate, 24-seater cinema/screening room is available to hotel guests. Each month a new schedule is set, running a new movie five times a day (10h00, 14h00, 18h00, 20h00 and 22h00).
For those who would like to choose their own movie, we have a wide selection of classics, comedy, adventure, drama and foreign films. Sink into plush black leather seats with state-of-the-art flat screen Dolby surround sound and enjoy complimentary popcorn and candy as you escape into a world of celluloid fantasy.
Kids Holiday Club
For the most fun under the sun
Children between the ages of four and 12 years, have access to the supervised Holiday Club during their stay. The children’s Playroom offers a range of games, activities and facilities, including use of the X-Box, Play Station, DVD’s and a selection of board games.
Other vacation activities include story-telling, face painting, art and craft activities, pizza-making and movie screenings. Special programmes are offered during peak periods such as school holidays, Easter, Christmas and New Year.
For mom and dad, an outsourced babysitting service is offered by the hotel so that you can enjoy some ‘adult time’ during your stay.
The Holiday Club is open daily from 10h00 to 19h00
Pools and Gardens
Wander through the gardens and relax in the pools
The Oyster Box is set in lush surroundings, with flourishing sub-tropical gardens flanking one side of the property and the warm Indian Ocean, the other.
A total of 14 pools and ponds can be found on the property. All the Villas and a number of rooms have gorgeous garden views and face onto one of the two large fresh-water swimming pools.
Health and Fitness
Calming, Invigorating, Energising
Whether you’re looking a high-energy workout, a relaxing walk along the beach or promenade or a rejuvenating Pilates or Yoga session, the Oyster Box offers an array of possibilities for bodies and spirits.
Fitness Centre
Open 24 hours, the fully-equipped Fitness Centre in The Spa complex includes treadmills, exercise bicycles, a Cross-trainer, Power plate, Multi Exercise tower, Weights, Medicine balls, Yoga / Exercise mats, Pilates Balls, LED TV’s with DSTV and Music and a Refreshment Station. A private Yoga or Pilates instructor can be arranged on request, however Pilates DVD’s are available at the hotel reception for individual use.
Family
The Oyster Box has long been treasured as a place where memories are made. For family get-togethers, weddings, celebrations, high-days and holidays…each one a memory in itself! Situated just 15 minutes from Durban, The Oyster Box provides a host of activities and facilities to suit the entire family’s needs (pets included) and make each and everyone feel right at home.
With two swimming pools, beautiful gardens brimming with bird-life and monkeys, as well as direct access to miles of protected swimming beaches and beach-side walking paths, families can take full advantage of The Oyster Box’s exceptional location and service.
A host of child-friendly touches are offered to families on check-in. Subject to room category and availability, children under 12 stay free and receive a Backpack filled with a selection of essential holiday items such as fishing nets, beach balls and colouring-books. In addition, each child is given a wrist-band which entitles them to a host of complimentary goodies during their stay, including a soft-drink, toffee-apple, milk-shake, ice-cream and candy-floss.
A special child-friendly turn-down is placed on each pillow at bed-time and there’s milk and biscuits, as well as complimentary popcorn, sweets and soft drinks and access to the extensive DVD library for in-room viewing or the 24-seater, in-house movie theatre. Children-focused menus are available in all our restaurants and on the breakfast buffet.
For excursions and tours, our Concierge will be able to assist with arrangements and make suggestions for kid-oriented outings and special places of interest. On request, car seats are provided for transfers to sights and shopping centres.
For mom and dad, a babysitting service is offered by the hotel so that you can enjoy some ‘adult time’ during your stay. The Oyster Box offers a variety of dining venues and bars to make your holiday time special too!
Thoughful touches - Making your stay extra special
As a guest of The Oyster Box your wish and enjoyment is truly our pleasure. Today at The Oyster Box we are delighted to continue the tradition of offering the most thoughtful and gracious luxury experience possible for our guests – the legendary style of service which made The Oyster Box the symbol of class and experience excellence which it remains today.
Female Travellers - Ladies First
For female guests travelling alone we can provide specially allocated rooms that enhance security for peace of mind.
Business Centre - Looking after your business needs
Our state of the art, 24 hour complimentary Business Centre, located on the first floor adjacent to the cinema, is available to all hotel guests. There are two desks, each with a computer, printer and a refreshment station offering thoughtful details such as dried fruit and mineral water, as well as tea and coffee on request. The Business Centre offers complimentary internet and the entire hotel has complimentary wireless Internet if you prefer to work from your room. The Business Centre also has a fax, black and white photocopier and secretarial services as available on request. Shipping and packaging, laminating and binding can be arranged directly with our concierge deck at an additional cost.
B | Africa Spa Products - Natures best body care
A unique range of exclusive body care products and professional spa treatments, prepared by blending native African plant extracts, the natural goodness of the sea and eco-friendly production technologies.
The B | Africa product line has been created in honour of Bea Tollman, founder and president of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, who says: “The unique natural locations of each of the Red Carnation properties are encapsulated in our B | Africa products and treatments, which harness the essential, life-giving properties of Mother Nature’s rich bounty to calm, detoxify, nourish and energise body, mind and spirit.
Discover More
B | Africa is the signature product range in the ultra-luxurious Spas at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa in Cape Town, The Oyster Box in Durban and Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat in the Cederberg Mountains. Journey to our properties to enjoy the particular and unique combinations of the natural and indigenous elements in each habitat, the inspiration for B | Africa.
In addition to being used in The Red Carnation Spas, B | Africa is also used as in-room amenities such as shampoo, conditioner and bath salts, allowing hotel guests to experience these refreshing and restorative spa products in the comfort of their rooms.
Spa Facilities
Bespoke Weddings - Tailored to you
The hotel offers a range of venues for both private ceremonies and bigger reception functions. The beautiful Victorian Gazebo and small amphitheatre in the garden, with seating for 100 people, is a memorable place to start your special day. While the stunning Pearl Room, with hand-blown Venetian crystal chandeliers, echoes the opulence of a bygone era and can comfortably seat up to 120 guests including a main table.
Our Wedding Co-coordinator will assist with every detail of your ‘Big Day’, to ensure it’s everything you ever dreamed of…and more!
Intimate Destination Weddings
Enchanting Elopement Package
The Oyster Box is KwaZulu-Natal’s prime wedding venue. Personal and meticulous attention is given to each aspect of the wedding, from planning to implementation. The Oyster Box’s track record combined with a highly experienced banqueting team, ensures that the success of every wedding is ensured.
With its spectacular setting right on the beach, The Oyster Box is an exceptional venue for all things business-wise. Offering all the facilities and services expected of an international hotel, The Oyster Box manages to remain personal and intimate at the same time. The hotel’s proximity to King Shaka International Airport, the city of Durban, The Ridge and the north coast, makes it an attractive option for corporate and business visitors.
Whether it’s for a large conference or workshop or intimate meetings or seminar, our selection of venues and technology support are available to suit the exacting demands of the corporate sector as well as the individual business traveller. Five unique venues, each with its own distinctive character brings an element of individuality to even the most ordinary business event.
We have many more special offers. We can help you decide which hotel or destination is best for you. Please click on the Please Call Me button if you can't find what you are looking for. We will contact you.
We can design your perfect holiday to anywhere in the world. Click below to contact us and we will create the holiday of your dreams!