If you’re looking for the most iconic 5-star hotel in Durban, you’ve probably heard the name: The Beverly Hills Hotel Umhlanga.
The main factor that makes this beachfront hotel in Umhlanga Rocks worth its price is its outstanding location, which I would give a 9 out of 10. It puts you just a short distance from the beach and only a 5-minute walk from the Ocean Mall, which is located directly across from it and is an unmatched shopping destination in Umhlanga Rocks.
⭐️ RATING: 8.7/10 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: Umhlanga Rocks Durban | ✅ Book it!
The beachfront itself offers complete peace of mind with 100% safety ensured by vigilant security personnel on constant patrol.
While service is commendable at 7/10, occasional minor delays may occur. Overall, for travellers prioritizing a secure, beachfront experience with immediate access to premium shopping, this hotel represents excellent value – I recommend checking current rates and securing your booking.
I have spent time searching for more information and reading other guest reviews beside my own one so people can not get confused. I compare my experience with reviews from other guests, and I also spoke to some individuals and their friends who stayed there in 2026. This guide is not intended to be misleading; it aims to help you decide whether or not to book your stay.
Let’s get into it.
Quick Facts: The Beverly Hills Hotel Umhlanga
- Star Rating: 5 Star Luxury Hotel in umhlanga Rocks
- Location: 54 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, KZN
- Google Reviews: 3,095+ with 4.5 average rating
- Opened: opened its doors December 1964. and was the first five-star hotel in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Rooms: 89 sea-facing rooms and suites
- Known for: Pink facade, beachfront location, famous breakfast buffet, celebrity guests
Where Is The Beverly Hills Hotel Located?
The hotel is in Umhlanga Rocks, about 20 minutes north of Durban City Centre and 15 minutes from King Shaka International Airport.
This is important: Umhlanga is Durban’s “posh” beachfront area. It’s cleaner, safer, and more walkable like the Durban Golden Mile.
From the hotel you can walk to:
- Gateway Theatre of Shopping: 8 min drive
- uShaka Marine World: 15 min drive
- Umhlanga Beach + Promenade: 2 min walk
- Ohlanga Nature Reserve: 10 min drive
If you want a Durban beach holiday without the chaos of the city centre, this is the spot.
Rooms & Suites at The Beverly Hills Hotel
There are 89 rooms split into 4 categories. most face the ocean or gardens.
- Standard Room King Non Smoking: The spacious double room provides air conditioning, a mini-bar, a balcony with sea views as well as a private bathroom featuring a bath. The unit offers 1 bed. From R5 158 per night
- Deluxe Ocean View Room: 35sqm. King bed. Balcony with ocean view. Most popular. From R5,200 per night
- Junior Suite: 60sqm. Separate lounge. Ocean view. From R6,500 per night
- Executive Suite & Presidential Suite: 90-180sqm. Butler service, jacuzzi. From R12,000 to R25,000 per night
What guests say in reviews:
- Pros: Beds are huge and comfortable, bathrooms are marble and spotless, balconies are big, soundproofing is good
- Cons: Some superior rooms feel small for the price. Ask for a renovated room when booking.
Pro tip from 2026 reviews: Email the hotel directly and ask for “a recently refurbished ocean view room on a high floor”. You’ll get better views.
Dining: Restaurants & The Famous Breakfast Buffet
This is where The Beverly Hills is famous.
1. The Dining Room
Fine dining. Jacket recommended for dinner. A la carte + tasting menu. Think seafood, steak, South African wine list.
2. The Garden Court & Poolside
Casual. Great for lunch and cocktails with an ocean view.
3. The Breakfast Buffet
This is legendary in Durban. It’s included for some packages, or R495 per adult for non-residents in 2026.
What’s on it: Made-to-order omelettes, smoked salmon, kippers, full English + SA breakfast, sushi, cheese, pastries, fresh fruit, and their famous pink champagne on weekends.
Guests call it “the best breakfast in Durban”. Go early 7:30am to avoid queues.
Facilities: Pool, Spa & Beach
- 2 Outdoor Pools: One heated, one adult-only infinity pool overlooking the ocean
- Beach: Private beach access with loungers and towels. Lifeguards in season
- Spa: Full-service spa with couples rooms. Book 2 weeks ahead in holidays
- Gym: 24hr gym with ocean views
- Other: Concierge, room service 24hr, free wifi, valet parking
It’s not a “resort” with water slides. It’s a classic luxury hotel. Quiet, elegant, adult-focused.
Who Is The Beverly Hills Hotel Best For?
Book it if you are:
- Couples on a romantic getaway
- Celebrating anniversary/birthday. They do it well
- First-time Durban visitors who want “the” iconic hotel
- People who want beach + luxury + service
Best Things To Do Near The Beverly Hills Hotel in Umhlanga Rocks
Best Things To Do Near The Beverly Hills Hotel in Umhlanga Rocks
If you are staying at the iconic 5-star Beverly Hills Hotel in Umhlanga Rocks, you are in the best location. Everything is within walking distance. Here are the best things to do nearby:
Walk on Umhlanga Promenade & Main Beach
The hotel is literally 2 steps from the famous Umhlanga promenade. Perfect for a morning walk, jogging, or swimming at Umhlanga Main Beach.
Shop at The Pearls and Oceans Mall
Oceans Mall is just opposite the hotel – less than 5 minutes walk. The Pearls Mall is also 5 minutes away with restaurants and shops. these are my favorite spots when i visit umhlanga.
Visit Umhlanga Village & Nightlife
5 minutes walk to Lagoon Drive with pubs, coffee shops, and nightlife. night life in umhlanga is really different from other part of Durban.
Dine at Top Restaurants
You are surrounded by Umhlanga’s best restaurants – from The Grill Room at the Beverly Hills Hotel itself, to Havana Grill, Little Havana, and restaurants in Oceans Mall.
Visit the Umhlanga Lighthouse
The iconic red-and-white lighthouse is 3 minutes walk from the hotel. Best spot for photos, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Enjoyed this post? Let me know in the comments! Got a question about the hotel or area? Ask me below and I’ll reply personally.