The hype
Guests love the location and the massive breakfast spread, but the aging infrastructure (especially the lifts) tests patience.
Blue Waters
$50-85/ night
Book this if You want the classic Durban beachfront experience with a killer breakfast buffet and don't mind a few retro quirks.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable ocean views from almost every room's balcony
- The 'sumptuous' Versailles Restaurant breakfast buffet that locals rave about
- Heated rooftop infinity pool that makes for perfect Instagram shots
Quick Take: A grand old dame of the Golden Mile that trades modern polish for nostalgia, great views, and a bit of wear and tear.
Reviewed by @newkieonthe_go: I stayed here for a few nights to explore Durban. The ocean view is incredible, but I skipped swimming because of pollution reports. It’s super windy, so I stuck to sightseeing. Good base if you want a view but plan to stay dry!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The '4-star' rating feels generous; expect 3-star maintenance with 5-star views.
- You prioritize ocean views over modern furniture
- You are traveling with family and need a pool + beach combo
- You love a hearty, old-school hotel breakfast
Cleanliness & Maintenance
6.5
- Housekeeping: Generally responsive, but reports of missed spots (under beds) and late service times.
- Bathroom hygiene: Hit or miss. Some guests report sparkling tiles; others find leaks, old grout, and weak water pressure.
- Maintenance: The building is showing its age. Peeling paint on balconies and slow elevators are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel grade. Clean but can feel a bit worn/thin in older rooms.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh, but some corridors and older rooms have a lingering musty or 'old carpet' smell.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Loud fridge compressors in older rooms
- Street traffic and promenade noise on lower floors
- Thin walls letting in corridor conversations and plumbing sounds
Before you book
Good to know
- Parking has a strict height restriction of 1.85m—SUVs with roof racks won't fit.
- You need a R200 cash deposit to borrow an iron from reception (no irons in standard rooms).
- The hotel is dry (alcohol-free) in some public areas, but the bar serves drinks.
What to pack
- SA plug adapter (Type M) as outlets can be limited
- Flip flops for the pool and public shower areas
Room Genie
Best picks
- High floor (10+) 'Deluxe King Sea Facing' for the best views and less street noise
- Corner rooms often have slightly more space and dual-aspect views
Rooms to avoid
- Lower floors (1-4) facing the street due to traffic noise
- Rooms near the elevator bank to avoid the 'ding' and chatter of waiting guests
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a renovated room on a high floor (10th or above) facing the ocean, away from the elevators to minimize noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the rooftop infinity pool is heated year-round, which is a rare perk for the area.
Does the hotel have parking?
Yes, secure undercover parking is available for R100/night, but it's not reservable in advance.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, and it's a highlight—a massive buffet with hot and cold options.
Can I walk to the beach?
Absolutely, you are right across the street from North Beach and the promenade.
Is there free Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available, though speeds can vary on higher floors.
Are pets allowed?
No, the hotel has a strict no-pets policy.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Florida Lounge' offers afternoon tea and cake with a view—a quiet escape from the busy pool.
- ✨
If the main lifts are jammed, check if the service elevator is being used for luggage; sometimes staff will wave you in.
- ✨
Ask for a 'North Sea Facing' room for views of the coastline stretching up to Umhlanga.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'fridge compressor' noise in some rooms is a known sleep-killer.
💡You have to go down to reception to get an iron—they aren't standard in the rooms.
💡The bathroom fixtures can be a bit 'retro' (read: old taps and showerheads that spray wide).
💡Room service stops dead at 11pm, so stock up on snacks if you're a night owl.
💡The 'renovated' rooms are nice, but the corridors still feel very 1980s.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Blue Waters is located and what's nearby.