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Waterfront · Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal
Farol e píer de Umhlanga
The red-and-white lighthouse from 1954 and the pier shaped like a whale skeleton, linked by the promenade along the Indian Ocean shore, in central Umhlanga.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Farol e píer de Umhlanga
The Umhlanga lighthouse was lit in 1954 to guide ships entering the port of Durban. It is a 21‑metre concrete tower, white at the base and red at the top, set on the beach rocks. Besides the rotating light, it has a fixed red light: if a anchored ship sees it, it knows it is too close to shore.
From the lighthouse the promenade runs along the coast in both directions, passing hotels, gardens and beaches. To the north, the Umhlanga pier, known as Whalebone Pier, extends into the sea with a frame of curved beams resembling a whale’s skeleton. From the end of the pier you can see the surf and, with luck, dolphins.
The surrounding beaches, such as Main Beach and Bronze Beach, have lifeguards and shark-protection nets. Between the rocks at low tide, pools form with fish and crabs.
Sunrise over the lighthouse is one of the town’s most photographed moments.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 2 hours.
Best time
At sunrise, when the light hits the lighthouse and the promenade fills with walkers.
How to get there
They are in central Umhlanga, on Lighthouse Road, a few minutes’ walk from the seafront hotels.
Tip
Walk from the lighthouse to the pier and continue north to the lagoon if you have time.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Farol e píer de Umhlanga
When was the Umhlanga lighthouse first lit?
In 1954.
Why is the Umhlanga pier known?
For its structure of curved beams that resembles a whale skeleton.
How tall is the Umhlanga lighthouse?
About 21 metres.