The 10 Best Bars In Durban South Africa

Durban, South Africa, is a wonderful blend of culture and beautiful architecture nestled in the subtropics. Whatever you’re reason for visiting, if you feel like having a drink, here’s our guide to the best bars in the city.

Billy The Bums

Billy The Bums specializes in serving great burgers and cocktails. The self-proclaimed cutting edge of mixology offers a fun-filled night for those who love to party. The burgers are prepared with a lovely sear on the outside and a hint of pink on the inside. Their expertly prepared cocktails are served on a large patio: choose from the classic mojito or a frozen margarita and enjoy the party atmosphere.
Address & telephone number: Billy The Bums, 504 Lilian Ngoyi Rd., Durban, South Africa, +27 31 303 1988

Joe Cool’s

Located on the beach front offering a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean, Joe Cool’s is a long established and hugely popular hang-out spot for Durban’s elites. The beautifully decorated establishment has seven fully stocked bars across decks where you can order some of the best cocktails and shooters in town. The place may need a little refurbishing, but the cocktails are excellent.
Address & telephone number: Joe Cool’s, 137 O R Tambo Parade, Durban, South Africa, +27 31 332 0977

Harvey’s

Serving some of the best cocktails and wines in Durban, Harvey’s is a sophisticated eatery. Located in Kwazulu-Natal, the multiple award-winning establishment serves hugely popular signature cocktails and mocktails. Try a citrus berry martini – an energizing drink made from raspberry syrup, grapefruit juice and fresh lemon juice.
Address & telephone number: Harvey’s, 189 Ridge Road, Umhlanga Rocks, Kwazulu-Natal South Africa, +27 31 561 4977

Unity Bar & Brasserie

If you are on the hunt for the best place to drink beer, then Unity Bar & Brasserie is what you’re looking for. There’s a vibrant atmosphere and friendly and knowledgeable staff. The beer list is sourced from That Brewing Company and there’s also an extensive wine and cocktail list.
Address & telephone number: Unity Bar & Brasserie, 117 Silverton Road, Durban, South Africa, +27 31 201 3470

Lighthouse Bar

Located on the premises of The Oyster Box hotel, Lighthouse Bar is a colorful establishment with a stunning view over the Umhlanga Beach. From the bar you’ll also be able to see the Umhlanga lighthouse. Watch a beautiful sunset with live music in the background at this romantic rendezvous spot. Lighthouse Bar’s signature drink, the Umhlanga Schling, is a must-try. Ingredients particular to Durban, such as cane sugar and cane spirit, are used to make the unique drink. You can also watch live sports on the large plasma screen TVs.
Address & telephone number: Lighthouse Bar, 2 Lighthouse Rd., Umhlanga, Durban, South Africa, +27 31 514 5018

Beach Bums

Located along the shores of Casaurina Beach, Beach Bums is a family-friendly bar where you can enjoy a perfectly blended cocktail with friends. At night the bar becomes lively and serves delicious dishes prepared by expert chefs served indoors or outdoors. Enjoy your meal and cocktail outdoors underneath palm trees.
Address & telephone number: Beach Bums, 65 Casuarina Rd., Genazzano, South Africa, +27 32 943 1132

Bel Punto

Bel Punto is a sophisticated establishment with an indoor dining area as well as a large terrace with a beautiful view of the Indian Ocean. Choose a bottle of wine from their extensive wine list, or ask the bartender to create a cocktail especially for you. The food menu serves a variety of Italian specialties.
Address & telephone number: Bel Punto, 1 South Beach Rd., Umdloti Beach, Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa, +27 31 568 2407

Moyo

Moyo is one of the best locations in all of Durban for those looking to enjoy some splendid cocktails. Moyo (which means heart) is situated right at the end of one of Durban’s famous piers, offering a panoramic view of the Golden Mile as it gently curves from the harbor to Moses Mabhida Stadium and beyond. At Moyo they’re also experts in cooking African dishes, which you can order to complement your cocktail while listening to tasteful African jazz playing in the background.
Address & telephone number: Moyo, 1 Bell St, uShaka Marine World, Point, Durban, South Africa, +27 11 452 8770

Republik

Republik encourages environmentally responsible dining by using high quality, hand-crafted, natural and free-range produce. They offer a make-your-own-burger menu and drinks from the South African microbrewery list.
Address & telephone number: Republik, Cnr. Broadway & Kensington, Swapo Rd., Durban North, South Africa, +27 31 573 1429

Zack’s

Zack’s has a splendid view, enabling guests to watch Durban’s rich and famous moor their luxury yachts, and the huge container ships move in and out of the city harbor. There’s live entertainment by local musicians who play from mini-rock shows to afternoon jazz and they also host regular open mic events.

About the author

Corlena Bailey

I am a marketer, a writer and an administrator in my own right. After completing university, I have had the privilege to work for various reputable organizations and gained a wealth of experience. I have tackled several forms of writing throughout my career. After completing a copywriting course with American Writers & Artists Inc. (AWAI), I decided to enter the field of copywriting in order to enhance my portfolio and establish an online presence. Being a natural-born writer, I completed my first upper middle grade novel called Flowers Wilt But Pi Is Constant. I enjoy writing of course, along with spending time on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and other social media networks, doing voluntary work, watching anime, listening to music, playing with my baby nephew, Dominik and chilling with friends.