Things to do in Durban
Check out the jazz at The Chairman
A hole-in-the-wall jazz bar, The Chairman (www.thechairmanlive.com) has seen a long list of local and international acts taking to its stage over the years. More hipster warehouse than Ronnie Scott's, it's a perfect place to lose an evening or two. There' are delicious African-style snacks on offer, too.
Go for a deep dive
Durban has an abundant number of dives scattered over a wide area north and south of the city. The Durban Undersea Club (tel: +27 31 368 1199; www.duc.co.za) is based at Vetch's Pier and offers all manner of water-based japery, including boating, surf ski and something called underwater hockey.
Hit the greens
Durban has a large number of golf courses to suit all abilities. Durban Country Club (tel: +27 31 313 1777; www.dcclub.co.za) overlooking the Indian Ocean, is built on a sand dune with a Cape Dutch-inspired club house and offers one of the most attractive courses on the continent.
Listen to the bird song at Umgeni River
With over 800 birds and 200 species within its site in an old quarry, the Umgeni River Bird Park (tel: +27 31 5794601; www.umgeniriverbirdpark.co.za) is a must-visit for the budding ornithologist. Tours are available, and the Free Flight bird show takes place at 1100, Tuesday through Sunday.
Take to the waves
Durban's beaches are a surfer's heaven - North Beach, Dairy Beach, the Bay of Plenty and Snake Park are separated by piers but offer a huge variety of surf spots, with soft sandbars, grinding reefs, dredging beach breaks and long tubing point breaks. The Surfing Site (www.thesurfingsite.com/) can help you out with all the info you need.
