SA's First Club Med Resort to Launch

Road Trip Potential for Locals & Europeans: SA’s First Club Med Resort

Not long to go, KwaZulu-Natal is set to open South Africa’s first club med, marking a major milestone for Mzansi’s tourism and hospitality industry. It’s an exciting time as locals get to have a taste of luxury right on their doorstep. Travellers from around the country can get into their car or book a flight and experience an all-inclusive holiday that many don’t get to experience overseas. 

It’s a much needed boost for local tourism to the Dolphin Coast according to the eTheKwini Municipality, as many foreign travellers tend to swarm Cape Town shores over the holidays. Tourist experts seem to think that attracting European tourists will boost developments in the area. 

Olivier Perillat-Piratoine, Club Med Southern Africa’s managing director had this to say, “Kwa-Zulu Natal is ready to reclaim its place on the global tourism stage. We’re in the midst of creating a new tourism hub for South Africa outside of the polarised travel landscape.” 

It comes as no surprise that something like this is happening because he thinks the appeal is there for tourists of all kinds, whether you want the beach or bush experience.

Getting There

When it comes to planning road trips, people driving from Johannesburg can account for a 6 hour 41 minute drive (624 km) to Tinley Manor Beach. If you do decide on that route, don’t forget to account for the latest toll fees, plan your route in advance, service your car, and map out rest stops for safety. 

Club Med Opening Date

Where is club med in South Africa? 

On the 4th of July, KwaZulu-Natal’s club med resort will open on the 4th July 2026 in Tinley Manor. Located north of Durban,  the resort will be roughly 30 minutes away from King Shaka Airport and just under 4 hours away from popular safari hotspots, giving tourists the option to hop from beach to safari. 

Olivier told iol media, “We have been pioneering the hospitality industry for nearly 75 years. That comes in terms of opening new destinations where no one goes, but it also comes in disrupting and transforming the hospitality landscape. Club med created the all-inclusive landscape.” 

The project was a success. And according to Chris du Toit from the Collins group, he said that after 4.5 million man-hours, they came under the budget (R2 Billion development) and are super proud to have built a development that met environmentally-friendly ways. 

South African Tourism and All-Inclusive Resorts

The group estimates between 600 and 650 permanent jobs will have been created, with the hopes of catering to 1000 tourists landing on Durban shores weekly. 

The resort development is also designed to show a proud Zulu heritage behind the province and the coastal ways of living. The resort, based on tradition and textiles, offers a glimpse into local culture thanks to the thoughtful craftsmanship. From colours to beadwork and handcrafted decor, there’s a welcoming spirit present. 

What does it mean to be all-inclusive?

The words “all-inclusive” can vary from one resort to another, but the general definition would highlight how travellers staying at the resort would only pay one fee for the entire stay. This fee includes things like certain activities, food and drinks, tips and taxes, and their accommodation. 

Key features at the resort

This family-friendly resort offers:

• Water sports and beachfront activities for all ages.
• A hub or food court with multiple restaurants, bars, and entertainment zones. 
• Kids clubs that cater to children between the ages of four months to 17 years old. 
• Convention centre that holds nine conference rooms.
• Kayaking, paddling, and fishing for children.
• Clubhouses are for adults only.
• Traditional boma spaces for dining. 

10 Fun Things to Do in Durban 

Once you arrive, there is plenty to do and see in the North of Durban (hope you brought your swimsuit and paddle board).

1. Take the family to Ushaka Marine World. 
2. Explore local markets and walking tours.
3. Visit the Tala Game Reserve. 
4. Experience whale and dolphin watching boat tours.
5. Take a dip in the warm waters at Ballito beach
6. Go for a walk on the Umhlanga promenade. 
7. Book an open safari game drive at some of Durban’s more exclusive resorts.
8. Feel the fun with pedal boat rides from Durban’s Waterfront.
9. Embrace culture and heritage at the PheZulu Cultural Village.
10. Discover Durban’s oldest market and shop traditional clothes, Indian spices, African artwork, and much more. 

Whether you’re using a local guide or online tool to book your activities, you’re bound to find something outside the resort that caters to the families needs. 

The Bottom Line

Get the family together for a road trip to remember, whether someone wants the beach or the bush, you can officially experience both. The latest developments are coming to Durban’s coastline and it’s an exciting venture for all involved. While we’re still a while away from summer, there’s nothing quite like a holiday or a quick getaway if you’ve accumulated some leave. 

That said, your wheels are depending on you as much as you depend on your wheels. Be sure to make that service, manage your car online with MotorHappy, and don’t forget car maintenance post-travel.