Best places to eat Umdloti KZN
- Brand Viljoen
- Mar 11, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 27, 2025
🍽️ Best Places to Eat in Umdloti, Umhlanga & the North Coast – A Family Dining Guide from Johannesburg to the Sea
Planning a family holiday from Johannesburg to the sunny shores of KwaZulu‑Natal? Whether you're visiting Umdloti, Umhlanga, or greater Durban, this guide reveals the best places to eat on the North Coast — with delicious meals, ocean views, and relaxed settings that suit the whole family.
🌊 Where to Eat in Umdloti
Umdloti is a coastal gem perfect for families who love dining with their toes in the sand. It’s small, walkable, and packed with scenic charm.
Top family-friendly Umdloti restaurants:
Bel Punto – An award-winning Italian restaurant known for its seafood, pasta, and spectacular views over the ocean (tripadvisor.com).
SandBar Restaurant & Cocktail Bar – A relaxed spot ideal for casual meals with kids, right on the beachfront (tripadvisor.com).
Bush Tavern – Family-friendly pub food with an ocean breeze, live music, and spacious outdoor seating (dining-out.co.za).
Foam & Caffé Java – Popular for early breakfasts, cappuccinos, and light lunches — all within walking distance of most accommodation (eatout.co.za).
These eateries are perfect for families from Gauteng looking to enjoy relaxed beachside meals without breaking the bank.
🌴 Where to Eat in Umhlanga
Just 10 minutes south of Umdloti, Umhlanga offers more upscale and trendy options, while still catering to families with children.
Top family-friendly Umhlanga restaurants:
Fish Umhlanga – Fresh seafood with a family-friendly menu, perfect for early dinners before sunset walks along the promenade.
RocoMamas Gateway – A vibrant burger spot at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, with indoor seating for energetic kids (wheree.com).
Olive & Oil – Mediterranean cuisine in a family-friendly setting in the heart of Umhlanga Village (sa-venues.com).
Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom – Several restaurants inside this coastal resort between Umdloti and Umhlanga, including steakhouses and grills (en.wikipedia.org).
🌇 Where to Eat in Durban
Durban’s restaurant scene is full of rich flavours and experiences — ideal for a family day trip from Umdloti or Umhlanga.
Top family-friendly Durban restaurants:
Cargo Hold Restaurant – Dine next to a shark tank inside uShaka Marine World — an unforgettable experience for kids (wanderlog.com).
Blue Zoo Restaurant – Surrounded by gardens in Mitchell Park, this tranquil spot is ideal for outdoor family brunches.
Max’s Lifestyle (Umlazi) – For families wanting a vibrant cultural experience with authentic South African cuisine (thetimes.co.uk).
Florida Road & the Golden Mile – These iconic stretches are home to several family-friendly pizzerias, curry houses, and ice cream cafés (thetimes.co.uk).
✈️ Why North Coast Restaurants Are Perfect for Joburg Families
Direct flights from Johannesburg to King Shaka International Airport make quick weekend escapes easy.
Coastal restaurants offer scenic views, safe settings, and nearby attractions like tidal pools, play areas, and beaches.
Dining experiences are casual, spacious, and accommodating to children — especially in Umdloti and Umhlanga.
It’s easy to book accommodation within walking distance of top-rated eateries (www.pernaperna.com)