7 Top-Rated Accommodations in Richards Bay, South Africa in 2025
If you’re planning a coastal holiday in Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, look no further than the picturesque town of Richards Bay.
Whenever I’m in the area, I always make a point of spending a little time in Richards Bay. There’s so much to do in this pretty town I can’t resist.
And with the stunning beaches and wide range of accommodations in Richards Bay, a seaside getaway is unforgettable.
There’s even more to enjoy in the area than just the beaches, restaurants and activities right in town. Just 75 km away is Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park, known for its epic wildlife sightings!
Richards Bay provides a unique blend of adventure and relaxation that will leave you with a lifetime of memories.
▶ TLDR? Book here ➡️
🏆 BEST RICHARDS BAY ACCOMMODATION!
Our pick is this Waterfront 2 Bedroom Apartment because of its ideal location and excellent reviews 🏖️. ⭐ Rated 8.8 out of 10!
Choose from a range of options. This coastal gem has something for everyone, from tranquil beach retreats to thrilling outdoor exploits.
Let’s dive into the accommodation in Richards Bay. There’s a truly relaxing and memorable coastal vacation waiting there for you.
Best Accommodations in Richards Bay South Africa
Richards Bay is a beautiful spot for a weekend getaway, or for a stop-over while travelling through South Africa.
Whether Richards Bay is your destination, or you’re just passing through, you have some fantastic options when it comes to where to stay.
1. Waterfront 2-Bedroom Apartment
⭐️ Rating: 8.8 out of 10 with 44 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: the location, privacy, BBQ facilities, laundry
🏨 Check Price and Availability
This spacious and spotless apartment is in a fantastic spot, within walking distance of the waterfront and local restaurants.
The apartment has all the comforts of home. You’ll be able to wake up, take your coffee out onto the terrace, and enjoy your personal view of the marina and gardens.
The location was stunning and close to everything. So peaceful and relaxing definitely did not want to leave!
– Neerissa (Read more reviews)
Or start your day with a swim in the on-site pool – fenced for safety, in case you have your little ones along. They’ll love the playground.
You won’t even have to drive to the beach, as you have your own private piece of it right here. There’s even hiking close by.
On top of all that, you’ll love your host, who’ll never let you want for anything. Plus, wifi and parking are free for the taking!
2. Rooibos Retreat
⭐️ Rating: 9.1 out of 10 with 171 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: its sustainability, electric vehicle charging station, the views
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The feel of nature right in Richards Bay. Discover the serene and tranquil atmosphere at the Rooibos Retreat, located in the upscale suburb of Meerensee.
This newly renovated accommodation offers a range of amenities. These include an outdoor pool, a garden to relax in, and free Wi-Fi for guests.
Everything was absolutely amazing😍very clean. Everything was beyond what I had expected. The experience was great. The service was on a 100%. The staff was super nice too.
– “T” (read more reviews)
Enjoy the delicious included breakfast, or sleep in and relax. With your own fridge, kettle, and coffee maker, you won’t even have to miss out on your morning caffeine.
The Rooibos is just 8 km from the local driving range and country club. Actually, the central location is close to everything!
3. Umuzi Guesthouse
⭐️ Rating: 9.1 out of 10 with 86 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: on-site spa, pet-friendliness, executive cottage option
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Nothing says relaxing vacation like a spa treatment or two. Umuzi’s spa offers a full range of your favourite services, from mani-pedis and facials to deep tissue massage.
You can even indulge yourself by having a masseuse come right to your room.
Our hosts…welcomed us warmly, and ready to help, and provided us with everything we needed.Everyone was friendly and hands-on including the staff, Futhi and Nokwazi. The place was clean and beautiful.
– Veronica (read more reviews)
We are definitely coming the second time.
It’s an ideal place to stay with the kids – Umuzi keeps games and toys on hand just for them. There’s even a children’s swimming pool for their enjoyment.
And don’t forget the furry family members! Dogs are welcome, and pet bowls and baskets are available for your convenience.
If you feel like you need to leave the property, be sure to see the staff. They’ll be happy to help you arrange a variety of activities.
Choose from walking tours, diving excursions, or a round of golf. Or stay and enjoy the on-site watersports.
4. Mwelele Villa
⭐️ Rating: 9.7 out of 10 with 4 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: 4 bedrooms, bbq facilities, hot tub
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If you’re travelling with your family or a group of friends, this private villa is perfect. With 4 bedrooms, a laundry room, and plenty of parking, you’ll have everything you need for a great holiday.
The home is spacious and well-appointed, with a fireplace, wifi, a gym, and a fully equipped kitchen. The outdoor space is beautiful and includes outdoor furniture, a garden, and a braai (bbq) area.
Try to find time to make use of the villa’s cinema room, too, while you’re here!
Exceptional. Everything about the property is exquisite. Top quality furniture and finishes throughout the house makes it a home away from home. I would definitely recommend this property to anyone.
– Williams (read more reviews)
With everything this self-catering accommodation in Richards Bay offers, you may not even want to venture out.
But try to tear yourself away and enjoy the nearby golf course, or take a tour through one of the area’s epic game reserves.
5. BON Hotel Waterfront Richards Bay
⭐️ Rating: 8.2 out of 10 with 1,167 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: restaurant/bar, babysitting available, room service
🏨 Check Price and Availability
If you enjoy a stay at a 4 Star hotel and all that comes with that, BON is a great choice in Richards Bay.
Take advantage of such decadent amenities as room service, housekeeping, and the on-site restaurant and bar.
We were very previliged to stay at the BON Hotel.
– sonia (read more reviews)
The rooms are big and comfortable and clean. I enjoyed the sea view. Both Dinner and Breakfast were very good. I love the interior of the entrance and the dining room. Staff was friendly and very helpful.
Unwind and relax with room service, laundry service, and daily housekeeping. You can even request babysitting services so you can indulge in a romantic evening out.
Make use of the site-wide wifi, and the outdoor pool, and rest assured knowing that you can hire an airport shuttle when it’s time to return to reality.
6. Gecko Inn Guesthouse
⭐️ Rating: 8.8 out of 10 with 285 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: special diet meals on request, the outdoor fireplace, packed lunch for outings
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Gecko Inn has been a long-time favourite for visitors to Richards Bay. Just a short walk to the local sports complex, it’s perfect if you’re in town to see the big football match!
You’ll have a hard time deciding where to spend your time. You could your lovely and comfortable room, or enjoy everything the Gecko’s outdoor spaces have to offer.
Breakfast was excellent with a lovely wide spread to choose from, set a quiet little suburb the lodge provides you with the perfect quiet background allowing to to enjoy all there swimming, games room and bar at your leisure and don’t forget the onsite gym for those health nuts, all in all a wonder get away experience.
– selandra (read more reviews)
Hopefully, you have time to take advantage of everything available to you here. Indulge in some room service, have a quick workout in the fitness center, then dive into the outdoor pool.
Cap your day off with a cocktail under the stars. Try to tear yourself away from this amazing property, though.
There is a lot to see in and around Richards Bay, within easy travelling distance of the Gecko Inn. Enjoy!
7. Hacienda Palms
⭐️ Rating: 9.3 out of 10 with 35 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: the privacy, full kitchen, pet-friendliness
🏨 Check Price and Availability
Hacienda Palms is an entire apartment just for you. It has 2 bedrooms with queen size beds, and another with 2 twins – enough for the whole family, furry friends included.
Your home away from home has everything you could want in a holiday accommodation and is close to the beach and to restaurants.
The host made sure we are well taken care of, made us feel very welcome, and offered assistance were required since i had special requests. The property facilities were what we expected and more.
– Mbavhalelo (read more reviews)
Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or a base to explore the area from, this Hacienda will exceed your expectations. And your host is just a phone call away!
It’s close to all your favourite water sports, such as canoeing diving, and fishing. Travel less than 2 miles to play a round of golf!
You can also look forward to putting the barbeque and outdoor furniture to good use. A rainy day is no problem, either. Turn on Netflix or your favourite cable program, and cozy up on the sofa for a relaxing afternoon.
Visiting Richards Bay: FAQs
You can see that Richards Bay is in an amazing spot. The natural harbour, the beaches, and the surrounding game reserves make it an ideal spot to stop and spend a few days.
Here are answers to a few questions you might have:
✥ What are the best attractions near Richards Bay?
There’s a lot to see and do in the area! Go to Alkantstrand Beach, visit the Boardwalk Mall, or snorkel around Pelican Island.
You’ll want to spend a day at the nearby Enseleni Nature Reserve, too. See wildlife like giraffes and hippos, do some epic birdwatching, and hike the nature trails.
✥ What else is Richards Bay known as?
You may also hear Richards Bay called by its Afrikaans name Richardsbaai. And it had previously been known as Mhlathuze Lagoon.
✥ Who is Richards Bay named after?
Admiral of the Fleet Sir Frederick William Richards was an Irishman who was appointed Commodore of Africa’s West Coast in 1878.
The Commodore was assigned to Mhlathuze Lagoon during the Anglo-Zulu War in 1879. On July 13, 1879, he named the lagoon Richards Bay, after himself.
✥ What is the new name of Richards Bay?
Richards Bay is one of the many central business districts and townships comprising the municipality called the City of Mhlathuze.
✥ Can you swim in Richards Bay?
Yes! The main beach for swimming in Richards Bay is Alkantstrand Beach. Alkantstrand is an Afrikaans word meaning ‘both sides of the beach’.
It has been awarded the coveted Blue Flag, a testament to its cleanliness and safety. Alkantstrand is protected by lifeguards, and has restroom blocks, plus braai and picnic areas.
Alkantstrand Beach is also a great place for kayaking, canoeing, and surfing. There are popular eateries nearby, too, for your convenience.
✥ Are there wildlife viewing opportunities around Richards Bay?
Absolutely! You can choose between:
Enseleni Nature Reserve – 17 km from Richards Bay
Thula Thula Private Game Reserve – 45 km from Richards Bay
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve – 75 km from Richards Bay
Richards Bay Map
Summing It Up – Accommodations in Richards Bay
Richards Bay offers a remarkable array of accommodations and activities that cater to every traveller’s needs.
From decadent villas to cozy guesthouses, there’s a perfect place for you to escape to. Or to unwind after exploring the area’s exciting attractions.
Embrace the natural beauty, indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine, or simply soak up the sun on pristine beaches. Richards Bay has it all.
Don’t miss the opportunity to create unforgettable memories in this fantastic South African destination.
Happy travels!
Read more about South Africa:
✓ What in the World is the National Bird of South Africa?
✓ Soar with the Clouds: Top Hot Air Balloon Rides in South Africa
✓ The Three Rondavels: Best Tips and Tricks for 2025
✓ South Africa – Wildlife Sanctuary: For the Love of the Animals
