Addington Beach
A pristine, family-friendly beach on Durban's Golden Mile, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring historical shipwrecks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Addington Beach
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine, family-friendly beach on Durban's Golden Mile, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring historical shipwrecks.
"The perfect beach for the family to spend the day and soak up the sun."
🌊 Swim Safely
Look for lifeguards on duty for safe swimming conditions.
🚗 Parking Convenience
Ample parking is available at Ushaka, making beach access easy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ovington Court Shipwreck
Addington Beach
Explore the remains of an 80-year-old shipwreck visible at low tide, a unique historical marker on the shore.
Surfriders Durban
On Addington Beach
Enjoy delicious food with ocean views at this beachfront eatery, a local foodie gem.
Addington Beach Promenade
Along Addington Beach
Take a refreshing walk or cycle along the promenade, enjoying sea breezes and vibrant beach life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Family-Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Swim Safely
Look for lifeguards on duty for safe swimming conditions.
🚗 Parking Convenience
Ample parking is available at Ushaka, making beach access easy.
🍽️ Beachfront Dining
Grab a bite at Surfriders Cafe for great food with ocean views.
🚶♀️ Promenade Strolls
Enjoy a walk or cycle on the promenade, perfect for a scenic outing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Swim Safely
Look for lifeguards on duty for safe swimming conditions.
🚗 Parking Convenience
Ample parking is available at Ushaka, making beach access easy.
🍽️ Beachfront Dining
Grab a bite at Surfriders Cafe for great food with ocean views.
🚶♀️ Promenade Strolls
Enjoy a walk or cycle on the promenade, perfect for a scenic outing.
☀️ Sun Protection
The sun can be intense; remember sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Addington Beach is widely praised for its calm, family-friendly waters and pristine cleanliness, making it ideal for swimming and leisurely strolls along the promenade. Visitors enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the unique historical sight of the Ovington Court shipwreck. However, some guests have encountered unhelpful or rude lifeguards, detracting from an otherwise positive experience.
"Superb Sunday 10am swim. Yes, it's hot, yes, the sand can burn
But the water was calm and awesome with playful waves and little crowd. Excellent pre-brunch activity with promenade walkway."
Ebrahim Ally
"Located in front of Ushaka with its large flat shoreline and relatively small incline makes it quite safe to swim and for the kids to play. There is lots of parking available at Ushaka and grab a bite at surf riders cafe. This is the perfect beach for the family to spend the day and soak up the sun."
Mobeen Khan
"Absolutely Beautiful.Pristine clean.
Beach ⛱️🏖️ as busy buzzing with people cyclists, couples with children and holiday makers.
Went for a morning walk.
Proudly South African
Beautiful Summers day with a slight breeze 🌞
Really enjoyed my walk on the Promenade."
Prea Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Addington Beach is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available at the nearby Ushaka Marine World. Public transport options like taxis and buses also serve the area.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at Ushaka Marine World, which is located right in front of Addington Beach, making it convenient for visitors.
Absolutely! The Addington Beach promenade is a popular spot for cycling and walking, offering scenic views and a pleasant way to reach the beach.
The beach is easily accessible from the main beachfront road and the promenade. Ushaka Marine World also provides direct access.
Yes, Durban's public transport network includes routes that stop near Addington Beach, making it accessible for those not traveling by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Addington Beach is a public beach and does not have an entry fee. You can enjoy the sand and sea for free.
Addington Beach is open 24/7, but lifeguard services are available during daylight hours for safe swimming.
General beach rules apply, including respecting lifeguards' instructions and keeping the area clean. Specific event restrictions may apply during competitions.
No booking is required for general access to Addington Beach. However, if you plan to visit attractions like Ushaka Marine World, separate tickets are needed.
Addington Beach occasionally hosts sporting events like triathlons and surf competitions. Check local listings for event schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, walk along the promenade, cycle, and even explore the Ovington Court shipwreck at low tide.
Yes, Addington Beach is known for its calm waters and relatively small incline, making it safe for swimming and for children to play.
Lifeguards are typically on duty during daylight hours to ensure visitor safety. Always swim in designated areas.
While direct facilities on the beach are minimal, nearby Ushaka Marine World offers restrooms, showers, and dining options.
The Ovington Court shipwreck is visible at low tide, offering a unique historical sight for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Surfriders Cafe, located on Addington Beach, offers delicious food with ocean views.
Yes, Surfriders Durban is a popular restaurant situated directly on Addington Beach, serving 'Just Good Chow'.
Surfriders Durban offers a menu described as 'Just Good Chow,' with a focus on fresh, flavorful dishes.
While there aren't many dedicated snack vendors directly on the sand, nearby cafes like Surfriders and facilities at Ushaka Marine World offer refreshments.
Yes, the wide shoreline and promenade make it a pleasant spot for a picnic, especially during cooler parts of the day.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunrise shots, the Ovington Court shipwreck, and vibrant beach life along the promenade.
Yes, Addington Beach is a fantastic location for sunrise photography, offering beautiful light over the ocean.
Certainly! The shipwreck is a unique subject, best photographed at low tide.
Beach scenes, ocean views, and lifestyle shots along the promenade are popular. The shipwreck offers a historical photography angle.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With ample parking at Ushaka Marine World nearby and the pleasant promenade for strolls, convenience is key. You can easily spend a whole day here, enjoying the sun and sea. Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, or grab a bite at the family-friendly Surfriders Cafe.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
The beach is also a venue for events like triathlons, indicating its suitability for swimming and other aquatic activities. Local surf shops like The Surf HQ provide updates on conditions, so you can plan your session accordingly.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own picnic to save on food expenses, or opt for affordable local eateries. The promenade is perfect for free activities like walking and people-watching.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ovington Court Shipwreck
Seeing the shipwreck is a highlight for many, providing a stark contrast to the lively beach atmosphere. It's a reminder of the ocean's power and the stories hidden beneath the waves. Remember to check the tide times to ensure you can see the wreck clearly during your visit.
This unique feature adds an element of discovery to a day at Addington Beach, making it more than just a typical seaside experience. It's a chance to step back in time and imagine the events that led to the ship's demise.
Dining Delights at Surfriders Durban
The restaurant, helmed by Chef Samantha Smallshaw, focuses on creating flavorful dishes that complement the relaxed beach vibe. Whether you're craving a light snack or a more substantial meal, Surfriders Durban aims to satisfy. Its prime location makes it a convenient and appealing choice for beachgoers.
Many visitors praise Surfriders Durban for its excellent food and unbeatable location. It's often recommended as a must-visit spot for those looking to combine a beach day with a quality dining experience.
The Addington Beach Promenade Experience
This well-maintained walkway is a hub of activity, with cyclists, runners, and families enjoying the open space. It connects various points along the beachfront, making it easy to explore different sections of the coastline. The gentle sea breeze and the lively atmosphere add to the overall charm of the experience.
Many reviewers highlight the promenade as a key attraction, appreciating its cleanliness and the opportunity it provides for exercise and enjoying the Durban beachfront. It's an integral part of the Addington Beach experience, offering a pleasant way to soak in the coastal ambiance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit