2 Best Sights in KwaZulu-Natal and Durban, South Africa

Sibaya is expansive—in size, appearance, and number of activities—but worth seeing for its grandiose, Zulu-themed design. The buildings themselves, for example, echo a giant and opulent Zulu kraal (compound/dwelling). Huge bronze statues of Zulu warriors and buffalo at the entrance provide a truly African welcome. Wherever you are at Sibaya—all 48 hectares (119 acres) of it—a breathtaking view of the ocean is only a window or a balcony away. As you might expect, there are plenty of dining options, and there’s a 36-room hotel as well as a lodge with 118 rooms. Nevertheless, it's quite a way out of town, north of Umhlanga and about halfway between the city center and Ballito. If you have only a few days, don't spend them here.

Part of the rejuvenation of Durban's Golden Mile, this casino is done in the art deco style for which Durban is famous. Colorful lights make it a nighttime landmark, but it's established itself as a daytime hot spot as well. There are deck chairs beneath umbrellas on a grassy sundeck and a pretty beach. A paved walkway dotted with benches is a pleasant place to sit and watch cyclists, inline skaters, and joggers.