Zimbali Lodge By Dream Resorts, Umhlali ~ Reviews, Room Choices & Prices 2025

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Key details

About the Resort

1 Lodge Lane, Zimbali Coastal Estate, Umhlali, South Africa, 4390

Zimbali Lodge By Dream Resorts is renowned for its luxurious accommodations and stunning natural surroundings. Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Umhlali, South Africa, the resort features a harmonious blend of elegance and comfort. It is particularly noted for its proximity to 3.5 km of pristine beach, providing guests with easy access to the ocean. The resort is also recognized for its legendary hospitality and attention to detail, creating a paradise-like atmosphere for visitors.

Location

Conveniently located 20 km from King Shaka International Airport, Zimbali Lodge offers easy access to various attractions in the area. Its positioning near landmarks such as Willard's Beach and the Ballito Cable Ski Park ensures guests can explore the beauty of the KwaZulu Natal North Coast. The surrounding area is characterized by its exceptional surfing and fishing beaches, enhancing the allure of the resort's location.

Rooms

The resort offers a variety of spacious accommodations including suites and apartments designed with comfort in mind. Many rooms feature private balconies that provide views of the surrounding gardens and forests, enhancing the serene atmosphere. Amenities such as air conditioning and high-speed internet access ensure a pleasant stay for guests, while elegant bathrooms equipped with free-standing Victorian baths add a touch of luxury.

Eat & Drink

Guests can enjoy delightful culinary experiences at the onsite restaurants which offer a variety of cuisines. Special emphasis is placed on fresh, local ingredients, enhancing the flavors of each dish. Breakfast options cater to diverse tastes, providing a perfect start to the day, while the ambiance of the dining facilities complements the extraordinary dining experience.

Leisure & Business

The resort features an array of leisure activities for guests to indulge in during their stay. Facilities include multiple pools, offering both relaxation and active play options for families. Additionally, guests can engage in nature walks, allowing them to explore the stunning indigenous coastal forests that surround the property.

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Select your room type

The resort provides a range of accommodations, including double rooms, family rooms, and suites, all with breakfast, free cancellations, and exclusive deals.

Double or Twin Room View

Max:

2 persons

32 m²

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Garden view

Shower

Heating

room details

Check Prices

Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite

Max:

2 persons

73 m²

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Garden view

Shower

Heating

room details

Check Prices

Standard King Room

Max:

2 persons

32 m²

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Garden view

Shower

Heating

room details

Check Prices

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Getting around

Explore available ways to reach your dream destination

City Centre

Umhlali 7.7 km

Airports

King Shaka International (DUR) 16.9 km

Pietermaritzburg (PZB) 116.9 km

Facilities

Enjoy a range of amenities at the resort designed for your comfortable stay and remarkable experiences.

Relaxing Poolside

“The pool area was a perfect spot to unwind, and the atmosphere was tranquil, making our leisure time enjoyable.” view full review

Delicious Breakfast!

“The breakfast spread was diverse and delicious, catering to all tastes and ensuring a great start to our days.” view full review

Spacious Comfort

“Our room was impressively spacious and comfortable, allowing us to relax and enjoy our stay to the fullest.” view full review

Helpful Amenities

“The amenities provided were very helpful, especially the prompt response to our special requests which were executed perfectly.” view full review

General

No smoking on site
Parking
Safe deposit box
VIP check-in/ -out
Concierge desk
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Private beach
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Hiking
Cycling
Tennis court
Golf course

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Valet parking
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Poolside snack bar
Picnic area/ Tables

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Board games
Children's menu
Water slides
Children's play area

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Infinity pool
Heated swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Pool with view
Shallow end

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Washing machine
Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Location

1 Lodge Lane, Zimbali Coastal Estate, Umhlali, South Africa, 4390

Map view

1 Lodge Lane, Zimbali Coastal Estate, Umhlali, South Africa, 4390

City landmarks

Golf Course

Zimbali Coastal Resort

850 m

D176 Esenembi Road

Ballito Cable Ski Park

890 m

Tinley Manor Beach

1.5 km

Zimbali Beach

1.5 km

SPCA Road

Ndlondlo Reptile Park

2.2 km

Mall

Life Style Ballito

1.5 km

Beach

Willard's Beach

2.7 km

Night club

Crush Night Club

1.3 km

Alberlito Netcare Hospital

1.7 km

Holla Trails

1.9 km

Lifestyle Shopping Centre

2.1 km

77 Greylands Road 809 Greylamds

Crocodile Creek

3.2 km

Store

The Waterberry Coffee Shoppe

2.6 km

Beach

Ballito Beach

2.4 km

Shopping Area

Quarter Boutique Shopping Centre

2.4 km

Mall

Boulevard Centre

2.5 km

Boulevard Shopping Centre

2.5 km

Beach

Thompsons Beach

3.4 km

Asgard Estate

Dolphin Coast Reptile Park and Educational Centre

3.2 km

Crocodile Farm

3.2 km

Golf Course

Umhlali Country Club

3.7 km

Beach

Salt Rock Beach

3.7 km

Museum

Thompson Bay Rock Pool

3.7 km

Beach

Hole In The Wall

3.6 km

Thompson's Bay Beach

3.8 km

Spa Centre

Simbiosis the spa at Simbithi

4.4 km

Golf Course

Simbithi Country Club

4.6 km

40 Ocean Dr

Shakas Seat Guesthouse

5.0 km

Casuarina Beach

4.9 km

Nearby

Golf Course

Zimbali Coastal Resort

700 m

Restaurants

Vicolo

1.5 km

DevProp Global Sales Centre 1 Albertina Way Zimbali Wedge

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback from previous guests about their experience. <br />

70%

liked the resort and would come back

Stunning views

Beautiful garden

Inconsistent service

Overpriced dining

7.0/10

Very good

Rooms

6.2

Location

9.0

Service

7.3

Dining

5.6

Christopher

United States, December 2024

6.6/10

I had a mixed experience at the hotel. The location is absolutely stunning, with beautiful views and a peaceful environment. However, the rooms had some issues with cleanliness and odors, which impacted my wife’s allergies. The service was friendly but could have been better managed, especially in the dining area. Overall, while the price was decent for the location, some improvements are definitely needed.

Rooms

5.0

The rooms were fairly basic for the price and unfortunately had a wet smell, likely from being closed up. They also felt quite cold and lacked sunlight.

Service

7.0

The staff was very helpful, but the bar service was slow, and we noticed music only playing if we reminded them.

Location

10.0

The location is unique and strikingly beautiful, with peaceful surroundings and a great sea view.

Dining

5.0

The dining experience was hit or miss; while some dishes were good, we also experienced some food that didn’t agree with us.

Facilities

6.0

The facilities were decent, but nothing stood out as exceptional.

Avery

United Kingdom, December 2024

7.6/10

I had a mixed experience at this hotel. On the plus side, the views from the rooms were absolutely stunning and the garden area was breathtaking, creating a really relaxing atmosphere. However, the service could use some improvement as not all the staff seemed enthusiastic or helpful. Overall, while the beauty of the surroundings was impressive, some aspects of the stay left me wanting more.

Rooms

9.0

The rooms were spacious and featured a lovely bay window along with a huge bathroom. The views were stunning, making it a nice place to unwind.

Service

6.0

The service was a bit hit or miss; while some staff members were exceptionally friendly and willing to help, others seemed disinterested.

Location

9.0

The location was beautiful, with gorgeous scenery that made for a peaceful retreat. I really enjoyed the quietness and the lovely surroundings.

Dining

6.0

The dining options could have been better; although the meals were decent, I found them to be slightly overpriced and not particularly exciting.

Facilities

8.0

The garden area and pool were well-maintained and stunning, really enhancing the holiday vibe.

Stunning views

Inconsistent service

Justin

United Kingdom, November 2024

7.0/10

I had a mixed experience at this hotel. The location was stunning with breathtaking views, and the pool area is truly beautiful. However, the rooms left a lot to be desired; they were not clean and smelled bad. The service was friendly and helpful, but the dining options didn't meet my expectations. Overall, while the views and pool area were fantastic, the condition of the rooms and the dining experience were not ideal.

Rooms

5.0

The rooms were not clean and had a bad smell; they felt very run down.

Service

8.0

The staff was friendly and really helpful during my stay.

Location

10.0

The hotel has a stunning location with breathtaking views, right on the beach.

Dining

5.0

The dining options were below par; it needs improvement for a five-star facility.

Facilities

9.0

The pool and garden area are truly breathtaking and well-maintained.

Edwin

United States, November 2024

7.4/10

My recent stay at the hotel had its ups and downs. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, but they needed a bit of an upgrade and were too dusty, which really affected my wife's allergies. The service was very friendly overall, and the staff was willing to help, though not everyone seemed enthusiastic. I loved the location, as it was a perfect escape from city life with beautiful views. However, the dining experience was a mixed bag since one of the restaurants was closed during our stay.

Rooms

7.0

The rooms were spacious and comfortable, but they were quite dusty, which impacted my wife's allergies. They could use a bit of an upgrade.

Service

8.0

The service was friendly and helpful. The staff made us feel welcome, although some did not seem very happy to assist.

Location

9.0

The hotel had a perfect location for unwinding and escaping city madness, surrounded by beautiful views.

Dining

7.0

One of the restaurants was closed during our stay, which was disappointing, but the other dining options were quite good.

Facilities

6.0

The facilities were decent overall, but there is room for improvement.

Charlie

United Kingdom, September 2024

6.4/10

I recently stayed at this hotel and found the location to be beautiful and serene, nestled in what felt like a jungle paradise. The service was pleasant, although I felt it could have been a bit more polished. My room, unfortunately, had a damp smell and some mold, which was disappointing for the price. Overall, there were some positives but also significant improvements needed for a perfect stay.

Rooms

5.0

The rooms had a damp smell and were somewhat basic for what I paid. I noticed some mold in places, which was not pleasant.

Service

6.0

Service was helpful and friendly, but it seemed like they could benefit from more training to meet expectations.

Location

9.0

Set in a gorgeous, serene location with beautiful surroundings, it was a peaceful retreat with a lovely sea view.

Dining

7.0

Dining was a nice surprise, though I was a bit disappointed they don't serve breakfast at the lodge anymore.

Facilities

6.0

Facilities were decent but didn’t quite stand out; just the basics were covered.

Brad

United States, September 2024

7.0/10

I had a mixed experience at this lodge. On the positive side, the rooms were spacious and offered a lovely view, and the staff provided excellent service, especially Musa and Terence. However, I noticed a musty smell in our room and that the dining options were quite limited, which was disappointing. Overall, while the lodge had great potential, some aspects definitely need improvement.

Rooms

7.0

Our room was quite spacious with a lovely bay window, making it feel nice and private. However, it had a musty smell that wasn’t ideal.

Service

9.0

The service was fantastic! Musa the Barman and Terence were particularly friendly and efficient, making our stay enjoyable.

Location

8.0

The location was peaceful with beautiful surroundings and a great sea view, though the entry area felt a bit unwelcoming.

Dining

5.0

The dining experience left much to be desired, with limited and somewhat bland options that didn’t feel filling.

Facilities

6.0

Facilities were decent, but some aspects seemed underutilized, especially when it came to dining provisions.

Thomas

United States, September 2024

6.8/10

I had a pretty mixed experience at the hotel. The location is beautiful and peaceful, nestled in the rain forest, and the rooms were clean and private. However, my last night was ruined by bed bug bites, which is concerning. The service was friendly but could use some improvement, and the dining options didn't quite meet my expectations given the price.

Rooms

7.0

The rooms were super clean and provided a good sense of privacy, set amidst the forest. Unfortunately, I woke up with bed bug bites on my arm the final night, which was alarming.

Service

6.0

While the staff was very friendly and welcoming, I found the service could improve, especially as they insisted I take leftovers with me instead of being accommodating.

Location

9.0

The hotel is set in a beautiful and peaceful location, surrounded by rain forest which provided a refreshing escape from city life.

Dining

5.0

The dining options were limited and a bit overpriced for what was offered, falling short of my expectations for a five-star facility.

Facilities

7.0

Facilities were decent, but without overly luxurious amenities that I had hoped for given the price.

Luna

United Kingdom, August 2024

7.8/10

I had a relaxing stay at this hotel, enjoying the breathtaking views from my room and the stunning pool area. The location was incredibly serene, nestled in a beautiful forest setting. However, the rooms felt a bit dated and lacked a cozy atmosphere. The service was efficient but sometimes overwhelmed, which affected the overall experience.

Rooms

6.0

The rooms had stunning views but felt dated and a bit dark.

Service

7.0

The staff was friendly and responded to requests, but they seemed a bit understaffed and overwhelmed at times.

Location

9.0

The hotel is in a beautiful almost jungle setting, making it feel very serene and private.

Dining

7.0

The breakfast was lovely, although the lunch menu was somewhat limited.

Facilities

9.0

The pool area was stunning, and the gardens were breathtaking.

Bob

United States, August 2024

7.6/10

I had a lovely stay at this hotel, as the rooms were spacious and offered a beautiful view overlooking the golf course. The location was nice, surrounded by greenery and close to some great dining options. The staff was really friendly, though my experience with dining was somewhat disappointing due to the lack of breakfast options. Overall, it felt like decent value for money, but there were a few areas that could be improved.

Rooms

8.0

The rooms were spacious, modern, and clean, with a beautiful view of the golf course. However, they didn't quite match the photos I saw during booking.

Service

9.0

The staff was very friendly and accommodating, especially Nombuso, who was a joy to interact with. They even called me after 2 AM to confirm my booking, which was a nice touch.

Location

9.0

The hotel is located in a picturesque area with beautiful views of the forest and ocean, making it a peaceful retreat. It's also easy to get around to nearby restaurants.

Dining

5.0

Dining was a bit of a letdown since they didn’t offer breakfast anymore, which we weren’t aware of when booking. However, the meal I had was quite good, especially the pork belly.

Facilities

7.0

The facilities are nice but could use some updating. The pool area was a nice feature, but it felt like they could have offered more amenities.

Liam

United Kingdom, July 2024

6.8/10

The hotel is located in a lovely area with breathtaking views, but it wasn't quite as fresh as the photos suggested. The pool and garden area were stunning, providing a perfect relief from city life. However, the room had an unpleasant cooking smell upon entering, which was a bit of a letdown.

Rooms

6.0

While the views from the room were stunning, I found the overall freshness of the room didn't quite match the photos I had seen. Unfortunately, there was a bad cooking smell when I entered, which was a significant drawback.

Service

7.0

The service was friendly and helpful. However, I noticed they seemed unprepared and understaffed, which sometimes affected how quickly they could assist.

Location

8.0

The hotel is in an excellent location, ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoying some tranquility. However, it's not near the beach, which could be a downside for some.

Dining

5.0

Dining was decent, but I was a bit disappointed that my wife had to pay for her coffee. The buffet breakfast had some items that could be improved, like the cold coffee and diluted juices.

Facilities

8.0

The pool area along with the garden was breathtaking and provided a lovely place to unwind. However, there could have been more amenities offered in the common areas.