Umhlanga is one of my favourite spots to unwind. From the seaviews to the seafood, no matter your mood, Umhlanga has something for you. Here’s my itinerary for a perfect day in Umhlanga:

Kick Off Your Morning with Breakfast at Mary & Joe
Start your day with a relaxed breakfast at Mary & Joe, a local favourite known for its fresh coffee and hearty breakfast options. Whether you prefer a classic eggs benedict or a stack of fluffy pancakes, this spot will fuel you for the day ahead.
Mid-Morning Beach Stroll with an Iced Drink
Take a scenic walk along the Umhlanga Promenade, breathing in the fresh ocean air. Stop by a beachfront café to grab an iced drink- think iced lattes or tropical smoothies- and enjoy the views. This is also the perfect time to take a quick dip if the waves are calling!
There’s just something about the Umhlanga beach that melts away worries of the world.
Experience the Variety at The Village for Lunch
Have your pick with lunch at the village. You could choose to walk around and see what grabs your attention but some of my favourites are:
- Ocean Basket: Like the name says, Ocean Basket has everything from fish and chips to sushi platters.
- Steak & Ale: If you’re in the mood for a juicy burger or a hearty steak, this pub-style eatery won’t disappoint. They also have amazing customer service which really won me over.
- El Patron: El Patron offers a variety of meals at great prices. They have pizza, burgers and even pastas.
Treat Yo Self at Ocean Mall
Ocean Mall is a huge mall that you could explore or simply just treat yourself to something sweet. Some great options for those who love sugary treats are Romano’s Ice Cream which offers gelato in a variety of flavours. You could also visit Hey Sweetie and indulge in both local and imported snacks.
Unwind with Cocktails and a View
You could head to the Pearls Mall (which has a fantastic view of the beach) for drinks or if you’re okay with a bit of a splurge, visit the Oyster Box hotel and go to the Lighthouse Bar. This classy setting is perfect for cocktails while you watch the sun set.
Dine Like a King
To wrap up your day, you can have dinner at any of the many options in the village but my recommendations are:
- Butcher Block: While Butcher Block is known for expertly grilled steaks, I’ve tried their hake and chicken schnitzel and am a fan of both. Basically, it doesn’t look like Butcher Block goes wrong with anything.
- Little Havana: A stylish bistro offering Cuban-inspired dishes with a South African twist. Their chimichurri steak or peri-peri prawns will leave you wanting more.
Whether you prefer casual cafés, fine dining, or beachfront treats, Umhlanga offers a foodie adventure at every turn. This is the kind of place where every bite becomes a memory and every meal feels like a celebration.