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We celebrate generous hospitality

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A warm welcome

With its dramatic location on the KwaZulu-Natal coastline, just metres from the golden sands of Umhlanga beach, The Oyster Box has for generations been hailed as one of South Africa’s finest seaside hotels. A member of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, The Oyster Box offers timeless elegance and five-star luxury, blending the charm and nostalgia of a bygone era with contemporary comforts. Alongside 86 rooms, suites and villas, The Oyster Box offers an array of restaurants, an award-winning spa, two swimming pools, extensive events facilities, and an intimate private movie theatre.

A curated art collection

Our vibrant art collection brings together a wide selection of work by South African artists and emphasises the distinctive creativity of KwaZulu-Natal. There are over one hundred paintings by twelve artists, all living and working in KwaZulu-Natal province. Their narrative style is of vital importance in understanding South African history and specifically Zulu culture. A poignant historical counterpoint to this contemporary collection is a series of forty-three woodblocks by the late Cecil Skotnes, illustrating the life of Shaka Zulu, who reigned as king of the Zulus from 1816 to 1828. Intricate, creative ceramic and mosaic murals by Jane du Rand, a ceramicist based in Australia, can also be discovered throughout…

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Curry Buffet Background

Our differences

From the remarkable seaside location to the lush tropical gardens, the array of restaurants and bars to the award-winning spa, there are so many reasons to fall in love with The Oyster Box. But we’ve narrowed it down to just 10…

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A love story

The Red Carnation Hotels story is a love story which started over sixty years ago. At the heart of this love story is our Founder and President, Bea Tollman - a woman and leader greatly respected and much adored by all those who have the pleasure of knowing her.

A love story

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Oyster Box Lighthouse Bar Cocktail Service
Oyster Box Lighthouse illustation

Extraordinary experiences

At The Oyster Box you’ll find an array of events, activities and experiences to fill your days. From sipping on seasonal cocktails in The Lighthouse Bar to embarking on an unforgettable spice journey in the company of our talented local chefs, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of KwaZulu-Natal.

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Chef at the Oyster Box Hotel
Illustration of cutlery, fish knif a fork and a butter knife

Culinary adventures

The Oyster Box has long been famous for the culinary adventures on offer. The generous Curry Buffet offers an unforgettable taste of KwaZulu-Natal’s signature dish, while the elegant High Tea in the Palm Court adds a contemporary spin to a timeless tradition. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner, or celebrating a milestone with loved ones, the restaurants of The Oyster Box offer a venue for every occasion.

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The power of passion

"The Oyster Box has been making memories for visitors for as long as anyone can remember. The original cottage was built around 1863 as a navigational beacon for passing ships and, in 1952, was sold to a local family who opened a tea garden that became a restaurant, then a hotel.  Following its purchase in 2007 by the Tollman Family, the hotel underwent a two-year rebuild, transforming it into what it is today.


Family-owned to this day, the Tollman’s personal touch is instilled in the team and exceptional service is the hotel’s hallmark. I am so proud to lead this team who work with such genuine care to create memorable guest experiences. My personal favourite experiences include a feast at the Curry Buffet, our legendary High Tea, and our award-winning Spa, nestled in lush sub-tropical gardens.


The hotel’s location makes for easy adventuring. A five-minute walk brings you to the 18,000-year-old Hawaan Coastal Dune Forest, home to a variety of wildlife. The popular Promenade doubles up for exercise and magnificent sunrises.


As committed custodians of the planet, we have integrated the best use of water, energy and the treatment of waste. The recent establishment of two bee colonies on the roof provides honey for both guests and the kitchen.


However you choose to spend your time at The Oyster Box, we hope you will find your own special place in our story and personally discover why so many guests are compelled to return."


- Roberto Rosa, General Manager