Island Hotel Durban

The hotel's unique setting where a lagoon meets the sea provides a picturesque and relaxing backdrop, making it feel like an island retreat. This landmark establishment is particularly renowned for its exceptional Indian cuisine, especially the bunny chows, which many consider the best in the region. Guests consistently highlight the delicious food, the friendly staff, and the recently upgraded facilities as key aspects of their stay. The hotel offers a relaxed, unwinding habitat, making it an ideal choice for food enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors and families looking for a comfortable outing. It also appeals to those simply wanting to chill and enjoy the serene environment. To make the most of your visit, be sure to sample the highly praised bunny chows and confirm all booking details upon arrival to ensure a smooth check-in experience.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities that contribute to a varied guest experience. The bar and dining hall are frequently praised for being excellent and well-maintained, providing inviting spaces for guests. There is also a dedicated sports bar for those looking to enjoy a more casual atmosphere. For relaxation and pampering, a spa is available on-site, with guests reporting very good service. However, some guests noted issues with the Wi-Fi, stating it was often intermittent and primarily accessible only in the reception area rather than in the rooms as advertised. Additionally, the television channels in the rooms are limited, offering only a few basic options. A specific concern was raised about the acoustics in the main hall, which some found to be less than ideal, and the absence of an indoor smoking area was mentioned by some guests.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed. While many reviews commend the hotel for its overall cleanliness and note that rooms are neat and some units have been upgraded and are well-kept, several significant issues were reported. Some guests experienced rooms with an unpleasant odour or a stale smell, and there were complaints about mosquitoes and leaking toilets. A lack of hot water was also mentioned by some, along with non-functional air conditioning. Furthermore, the absence of towels upon arrival or during the stay was a recurring concern, and some bathrooms were not cleaned properly. Older sections of the hotel, particularly the lodge rooms, were described as old and in need of refurbishment, with old carpets on the stairs contributing to a less pleasant atmosphere. Some guests also found the rooms to be noisy.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience is a major highlight for most guests, with the food quality receiving overwhelmingly positive reviews. The authentic Indian cuisine, particularly the bunny chows and various curries, is consistently praised as delicious, flavorful, and among the best in the region. Specific dishes like mutton bunny, prawn curry, fish and chips, and biryani are frequently recommended, often noted for their large portions and fresh preparation. While the food itself is highly regarded, some guests experienced slow service in the restaurant, with delays in taking orders or receiving bills. Breakfast received mixed feedback; while some found it satisfactory, others were disappointed by the limited choice and the inclusion of spicy chilli sausages without alternative options. A few reviews also mentioned that some dishes, like certain curries or bunny chows, occasionally lacked gravy or had tough meat. The restaurant atmosphere was described as basic or "old school" by some.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a unique and picturesque location where a lagoon meets the sea, creating an "island hotel" scenario that guests find relaxing and inviting. This setting provides a serene backdrop and is described as remote yet secure and well-maintained. The hotel is conveniently close to the beach, allowing for easy access to the ocean. For guests arriving by car, ample, safe parking is available directly at the doorstep, which is a significant convenience. However, some guests expressed concerns about the safety of the surrounding area after 4 PM, suggesting caution during evening hours. There were also mentions of litter in the swamp nearby, indicating a need for environmental upkeep in the immediate vicinity. Despite these minor points, the overall location is highly valued for its tranquility and accessibility.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Many guests highlighted the attentive service provided by various team members, from reception to the bar and dining areas, contributing to a very positive experience. The check-in process was generally described as smooth and efficient. Staff members were often noted for being accommodating and going above and beyond to assist guests with requests. However, there were isolated instances of negative interactions, including some guests feeling ignored by reception regarding bookings or being accused of stealing towels. While most service encounters were positive, a few reviews mentioned that wait staff in the restaurant could sometimes be slow or seemed disorganized, indicating areas where efficiency could be improved. Overall, the dedication and welcoming nature of the staff are frequently commended.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard amenities, the hotel offers a few specific details that guests should be aware of. There is often live entertainment on Saturdays, providing a vibrant atmosphere for dining and dancing. Guests should note that the hotel charges a small fee for takeaway containers, which some found unexpected. There were also concerns raised by guests regarding the distribution of tips to the wait staff, with some believing that the tips added to card payments might not be directly reaching the servers. Additionally, some guests reported issues with the billing process, specifically that a detailed itemized bill was not always provided for food and drinks. For those planning an extended stay, it's worth noting that some guests experienced difficulties with booking confirmations and subsequent refunds, requiring careful follow-up.