Durban has long been a popular hotspot for South Africans seeking sultry, relaxed beach holidays. The city even recently made it into the #7 slot on The New York Times “Top 52 Places To Go In 2015.” Being an east-facing town with consistently clear, warm weather, its impossible not to see stunning ocean sunsets year round. And what better way to enjoy a sunset than with a cocktail in hand? Here are our picks for the best places for sundowners in Durban.

Moyo uShaka Beach Bar

This bar connected to the Moyo restaurant is definitely about the atmosphere and has even better cocktails. To get here, you’ll need to walk all the way down to the end of the uShaka pier, but once you do, you’ll have a fantastic panoramic view of the Indian Ocean and the Durban skyline. The bar features fantastic Africa themed cocktails such as the Out of Africa with cherry liqueur and vodka, or its delicious African Sunset and Springbok shooters. It also has the same lively fun atmosphere that the Moyo brand is known for.

Roma Revolving Restaurant

This restaurant features a 360-degree view of the city and constantly revolves around so every table gets the same view. It’s located on the 32nd floor of the John Ross House and 105 meters up in the air, making for quite possibly the best view of the city. It’s hard to go wrong with a cocktail in hand sitting high above as the sunlight reflects off the buildings and harbor below. The food here specializes in Italian and seafood, and is known to have some of the best dessert in the city as well. And if you want to sit outdoors, just head up another level to Gino’s Skyview Bar.

Joe Cool’s

Get a view facing palm trees and the beach at this laid back restaurant. Cheap drinks and casual pub food are the name of the game here, and of course you have the beautiful ocean view to go with it. Diner’s can choose to sit on either the lower or upper deck, either of which will be a great place to watch the sun go down. For sports fans, it’s one of the most popular spots in the city for catching rugby games and is regularly packed with fans during the season. The bar is also popular for its beach parties in the summer that are known to get a little crazy.

Bel Punto Bar

If you’re staying around Umdloti Beach, the Bel Punto Bar can’t be beat. It’s known for its crowd of people heading here for sundowners and specializes in an extensive wine list. The Mediterranean feel and large outdoor dining area and terrace give spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. And this chic spot isn’t just known for drinks, it’s also one of the best places for seafood or modern Italian food in the city. So get ready to suck down some fresh Knysna oysters or grilled prawns while relaxing away the evening.

The Lighthouse Bar

Located in the 5-star Oyster Box Hotel, this fabulous bar routinely wows guests trying to live it up in a swanky environment after a long week at work. The bar also overlooks the beautiful red and white Umhlanga lighthouse, upping the ante for the beach vibe. There’s a diverse array of spirits and premium drinks, and the bartenders are some of the best in the city, too. Go for the Umhlanga Schling served with pineapple if you’re feeling like something tropical. The outside terrace is fantastic for enjoying a warm evening, but you can also cozy up at the long indoor bar if there is too much of a breeze.

Elements Cafe Bar

Situated in the Beverly Hills Hotel in Umhlanga Rocks, this breezy (literally) bar is another great place to sip on some cool white wine while watching the sun go down over the water. There isn’t that much on the menu outside of light eats, so you might want to make reservations elsewhere if you want a big meal with your drinks.  The decor of the white interior seamlessly matches the white sands in the distance and gives way to fantastic views of its pool and ocean. While there, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins swimming close to the shore.

 

 

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