Despite its laid-back approach to life, Durban has a pretty impressive nightlife scene that promises a good night out! From chilled cocktail lounges to banging nightclubs, the nightlife in Durban caters to all tastes.
And lucky for you, we’ve got all the hottest clubs, pubs and lounges listed below.
Don't forget to check what’s happening in Durban Today
Nightclubs in Durban
Whether you're looking to dance the night away to a playlist of the latest commercial music or you're keen for a night of exclusive clubbing, the Durban nightlife scene does not disappoint.
Cape To Cairo Nightclub
A converted historical Port building, the Cape to Cairo Nightclub is one of Durban’s mega clubs. Featuring 8 dance floors and 6 resident DJ's, this club held the title of best nightclub in KZN for 6 years.
You can expect professional service and ample space to boogie the night away. Located on Mahatma Gandhi Road, the club is central to the city. Each bar is themed to a different feel, providing a worldly experience which will have you forgetting where you are.
- Contact Number: (031) 368 3517
- Address: 100 Point Road, Point Waterfront
- More Info: Website
Joe Cool’s
Situated on Marine Parade, Joe Cool’s is one of South Africa’s most famous beach bars where a cosmopolitan mix of tanned, beautiful people in the latest fashions meet.
By day it's a restaurant filled with sun-worshippers lunching on the seafood, grills and pizzas on offer, but by night it transforms into the beach's biggest jol. Striking the perfect balance between relaxed and ready-to-party atmosphere, it's the ultimate beach party in SA.
Whether you are looking to enjoy a lazy lunch or restaurant dinner, a casual chill, nightclub vibe or themed parties - Every day is cool at Joe Cool's.
- Operating Hours:
- Mon - Sun: 8am - 4am
- Contact Number: 031 332 9697
- Address: 167 Lower North Beach, Marine Parade
- More Info: Facebook Page
Absolute Florida
Absolute redefines velvet rope laid back exclusivity, positioning itself as the flagship for all things fabulous in Durban's high-end party scene.
The drinks, the dancing, DJ's, and the special events all make for a night at Absolute unlike any other.
- Operating Hours:
- Mon - Sat: 8pm - 4am
- Contact Number: 082 893 7596
- Address: 258 Florida Rd, Windermere
- More Info: Facebook Page
- Latest Events: Absolute Florida
Tiger Tiger
Tiger Tiger is the perfect place for party animals, hosting big name DJ's and themed events with many giveaways.
With state of the art sound equipment, six bars to choose from offering a variety of drinks specials and two dance floors, Tiger Tiger is the place to go wild.
- Operating Hours:
- Fri - Sat, 8pm - 4am
- Entrance Fee: General R50
- Contact Number: (031) 303 9712
- Address: 67 Isaiah Ntshangase Road, Durban,
- More Info: Website
Ultra Bar
Ultra Bar is Durban's go-to nightclub, with its lavish decor and classic architecture it promises a night of opulence.
The club has 5 dance floors and state of the art sound and lighting equipment. This multi-level club has different themed levels. It is a club worth exploring, with its cosy nooks for some private small talk and large dance floors, there is something that will appeal to everyone.
- Address: 178 Stamford Hill Road, Morningside
- More Info: Website
Origin Nightclub
Housed inside the beautiful Winston hotel, the Origin is your entertainment hub. They have 5 dance floors and 9 bars to keep your thirst satisfied.
With ample space to move around the venue features lounge areas, a balcony, rooftop terrace and various chill out areas. One of the biggest clubs in Durban, it's a local favourite.
- Operating Hours:
- Sat, 8:30pm - 6am
- Contact Number: (031) 201 9959
- Address: 9 Clark Road, Berea, Durban
- More Info: Website
Club Altitude
Club Altitude is found on Windemere Avenue and is known for its wonderful atmosphere — a house-party feel rather than a night club.
Even if you aren’t part of the LGBT community, you will still have a good time. With friendly staff and an even friendlier owner, Durban’s trendy cosmopolitan nightclub is for anyone who is different and fabulous.
- Operating Hours:
- Mon - Sat, 7:30pm-4am
- Contact Number: 074 157 6937
- Address: 25 Silver Ave, Berea
- More Info: Website
Wonder Lounge
The Wonder Lounge on Windemere street is a gentlemen's club with a professional feel. Staff are welcoming and bottle service is impeccable. It is Durban’s premier lap dancing venue.
Be entertained by both local and international dancers. They cater for all types of functions from bachelor parties to corporate events.
- Operating Hours:
- Tues - Sat, 7pm - 2:30am
- Entrance Fee: R150
- Contact Number: (031) 303 8835
- Address: 510 Windermere Road, Morningside
- More Info: Website
Bars, Lounges & Popular Hangouts in Durban
From classy rooftop bars to vibrant roadside pubs, Durban has got it all! Take a look at our pick of the best bars in Durban.
Dropkick Murphy's
Dropkick Murphy’s is a local bar with a rustic feel. Opened in early 2013, chef Neil Coventry specialises in no-nonsense comfort food.
Famously known for their chilli poppers and house cocktails, it’s a great spot to hang out with some mates.
They also offer outdoor seating and reservations are welcome.
- Operating Hours:
- Fri - Sat, 12pm - 2am
- Sun - Thur, 12pm - 1am
- Contact Number: (031) 825 1858
- Address: 219 Florida Road, Durban
- More Info: Website
Panorama Bar
The Panorama Bar is exactly that — a panoramic, undisturbed view of the Indian Ocean with a drink in hand.
Enjoy reasonably priced drinks on the deck of the bar, overlooking the pristine waters. If you’re lucky enough you could witness one of the many lightning storms the tropical climate attracts.
Found within the structure of the Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani Hotel, the Panorama Bar boasts an irresistible menu. The poolside setting makes for very romantic meals and when it's lit up at night, it’s easy to forget you’re in Africa.
- Operating Hours:
- Tues - Sun, 9am - 11pm
- Contact Number: (031) 362 1300
- Address: 63 Snell Parade, Durban
- More Info: Website
Blue Dolphin Restaurant
The Blue Dolphin Restaurant has a great child-friendly beach bar vibe. Ample outdoor shaded seating after a day on the beach makes it the perfect spot for a beer break.
Known for their authentic pizza, the menu will not disappoint.
- Operating Hours:
- Mon - Sun, 10am - 12am
- Contact Number: (031) 327 7000
- Address: 9 Sandile Thusi Road, Durban
- More Info: Website
Unity Bar & Brasserie
Craft beer enthusiasts do not want to miss a visit to Unity Bar and Brasserie.
Their locally sourced produce, free-range poultry and meats from surrounding farms guarantees fresh foods and beverages. Situated in the suburbs, the bar is easily accessible and most patrons walk there.
- Operating Hours:
- Fri - Sat, 12pm - 12am
- Mon - Thur, 12pm - 10:30pm
- Contact Number: (031) 201 3470
- Address: Silvervause Centre, Durban
- More Info: Website
The Chairman
Durban's much loved cafe and bar, The Chairman, is a sophisticated jazz bar. With the interesting decor, the music isn't the only thing that fills the venue with life.
Cosy seating and a relaxed classy environment make it the perfect spot for drinks with colleagues after a long week at work.
- Operating Hours:
- Thur - Sat, 7pm - 2am
- Contact Number: 072 658 0746
- Address: 146 Mahatma Gandhi Road, Durban
- More Info: Website
Moyo Pier
Moyo Pier is the ideal place to enjoy sundowners. Located at uShaka Marine World's beach.
The restaurant is at the end of the pier with 360 degree views of the ocean and Durban landscape. A favourite among locals, but who wouldn't love sipping away on a cocktail while the ocean waters are below you gently washing your stress away with the tide.
- Operating Hours:
- Mon - Fri, 11am - 11pm
- Sat - Sun, 8am - 11pm
- Contact Number: (031) 332 0606
- Address: uShaka Marine World, 1 Bell Street, Durban
- More Info: Website
Max's Lifestyle
Max's Lifestyle is a restaurant found in Umlazi, it is rich in township culture with an upmarket and friendly feel.
The most popular days to visit are Sundays as they have top DJs entertaining the crowd. The food has a South African theme, where a braai (meat on a fire) is the main attraction. A safe and loved venue, it has become a tourist hotspot.
- Operating Hours:
- Daily from 7am - 12am
- Contact Number: (031) 906 1393
- Address: 328 Mbe Road, Durban
- More Info: Website
Republik
The motto behind Republik is "For The People", they aim to provide healthy nourishing foods to their patrons. Creating a happier world by spreading their good nature and cheery attitude.
The menu is simple and clean making your choices easy, but it promises your return as you will want to try everything.
- Operating Hours:
- Tue - Sat, 8am - 10pm
- Mon, 12pm - 10pm
- Contact Number: (031) 573 1429
- Address: Shop 8, Shopping Centre, Corner Broadway and Kensington, Swapo Road, Durban
- More Info: Website
Bus Stop Bar & Grill
This vibey food and cocktail bar offers exotic drinks, American-style culinary delights and speciality 200g burgers made from freshly ground beef.
If you’re looking for a way to spice up your evening with great food and an insatiable atmosphere, then a visit to this Bus Stop is a definite must!
- Operating Hours:
- Mon - Sat: 12:00 - late
- Contact Number: 031 303 1988
- Address: 504 Lillian Ngoya Road, Morningside
- More Info: Website
Taco Zulu
Situated on the uber trendy Florida Road, this upbeat Mexican grill house and cocktail bar is loved by the locals. With its carnival atmosphere, friendly service, contemporary Mexican cuisine and legendary cocktails, Taco Zulu is a must do!
Creating a new take on Mexican cuisine, the menu aims to showcase a diversity of flavours completed with a service style that creates a unique, fun and vibey dining experience.
The beverage menu incorporates Mexican classics with an extensive cocktail list that includes classic Mexican flavours such as tequila and mezcal.
- Operating Hours:
- Mon - Sat: 11:30am - 10:30pm
- Sunday: 11:30am - 9pm
- Contact Number: 031 303 9584
- Address: 237 Florida Road, Windermere
- More Info: Website
Zack’s | Wilsons Wharf
Zack's is an independent Café open seven days a week from 8 am till late, offering an extensive menu that caters for every taste, and a colourful, but deadly, cocktail menu with a loyal fan base that keeps coming back for more.
The cafe offers live music, from mini rock shows to afternoon jazz and regular open mic evenings which offer budding local musicians a platform to strut their stuff!
So, whether you're looking for great food, exotic cocktails or a night of entertainment, get down to Zack's where it's more than just good food!
- Operating Hours:
- Mon - Sun: 8am - late
- Contact Number: 031 305 1677
- Address:
- Wilsons Wharf, 14 Boatmans Road
- More Info: Website
Lighthouse Bar
Located at The Oyster Box Hotel, the Lighthouse Bar offers spectacular interiors, incredible views, cocktails to die for, live music and wonderful menus.
From the bar you’ll see the Umhlanga Lighthouse. If you’re looking for the perfect spot to watch a beautiful sunset in Durban with live music in the background and a cocktail in hand, then the Lighthouse Bar was made for you!
- Operating Hours:
- Mon - Sun: 10am - 12am
- Contact Number: 031 514 5000
- Address: Oyster Box Hotel, 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks
- More Info: Website
A night out in Durban isn’t always about trendy beats and basslines, there’s so much more on offer. From live music, chilled bars and tacos all ‘round, a night out in Durban caters to a handful of flavours!
Our vision at Vibescout is to provide the most relevant, current and comprehensive information.
If you feel we've missed something amazing or have any suggestions regarding our system, we would love to hear from you! Contact: info (at) vibescout.com