Umhlanga puts its festive face forward as December season kicks off

Tourism businesses in Umhlanga are ready to welcome holidaymakers, despite earlier concerns about beach closures that threatened the peak festive season.

“It’s been a tough year, but December is here—and if there’s one thing Umhlanga does well, it’s ensuring every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories,” said iconic restaurateur Derryck Myers, owner of the 40-year-old Butcher Boys steakhouse.

“All the restaurants in the village have added festive touches, and with our street patrollers in place, we’re ready for late-night dining and the best chilled vibes in Durban,” he told IOL.

His comments come after temporary beach closures raised alarm among tourism stakeholders. However, eThekwini Municipality has since confirmed that Umhlanga beach has reopened—a move welcomed by the local hospitality sector.

“Every year, Umhlanga seems to be affected by beach closures,” said ward councillor Bradley Singh of the Democratic Alliance. “This year, we engaged the city early and flagged the necessary maintenance work. Unfortunately, delayed payments to contractors disrupted progress. We’re hoping these issues will be resolved quickly so businesses can make the most of the festive season.”

Umhlanga is a critical economic engine for eThekwini, generating nearly half of the city’s rates revenue, with property values totalling approximately R100 billion.

Terri MacLarty, chairperson of the Umhlanga Ratepayers and Residents Association, said that maintaining the precinct’s prosperity requires all hands on deck.

“There are challenges, and we understand the frustration when things don’t go well. But it’s essential for all stakeholders to work together. Umhlanga must not be used as a political football. The councillors, businesses, residents and the city all need to act collectively in the interests of the area,” she said.

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