Rising from the southern end of Umhlanga Rocks Beach is the elegant Umhlanga Lighthouse. Visit this historic town landmark to take beautiful photographs and investigate its powerful light beam. Afterward, enjoy picnics and recreational activities on the town beach and take leisurely walks along a waterfront boardwalk. The 69-foot-tall (21-meter) Umhlanga Lighthouse has been protecting sailors off the coast of Umhlanga since 1954.
Stand at the base of the lighthouse and admire its whitewashed façade topped by a red-painted platform. The lighthouse’s vivid colors have long provided inspiration for artists and photographers. On a clear and sunny day you’ll have the chance to take superb pictures with the glistening Indian Ocean in the background. Visit after sunset to see the lighthouse’s revolving light, which projects for nearly 30 miles (50 kilometers). Note the additional red light warning ships at anchor that they might be drifting.
Surrounding the lighthouse is a small, well-maintained park with several benches. Come to this pleasant place for a picnic while you watch the waves crashing onto the rocks along the shoreline.
Stroll along O’Connor Promenade, a beachfront boardwalk that stretches in both directions from the lighthouse. Walk south to Durban View Park or north to Umhlanga Pier to enjoy sweeping views of the coastline. Note how the Umhlanga Pier resembles a whale’s skeleton. Follow the promenade to Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve, where trails lead through a lush coastal forest.
The lighthouse and promenade provide access to Umhlanga Rocks Beach. Relax on soft golden sand and check out the areas of rocky shoreline. Take a refreshing swim in the mild waters of the Indian Ocean and watch surfers ride the rolling waves.
Umhlanga Lighthouse is just a short walk from Umhlanga’s town center. Parking is available on Lagoon Drive, which runs parallel to the beach. Public buses also operate between Umhlanga and Durban.
