Durban is South Africa's sunny playground on the Indian Ocean. Its famous Golden Mile of beaches, warm water and laid-back surf culture make it a favorite with South Africans, and its vibrant mix of Zulu, Indian and European influences gives the city a flavor all its own.

Walk or bike the beachfront promenade, catch the surfers riding the waves, and spend a day at uShaka Marine World, one of the largest aquariums in Africa. Stroll the lush Durban Botanic Gardens, the oldest in Africa, and experience Zulu culture through music, dance and crafts. Don't leave without tasting bunny chow, a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry and a Durban original.

To get there, fly into Johannesburg and take a domestic flight of about an hour. Durban is also a great gateway to the Drakensberg Mountains and the game reserves of KwaZulu-Natal. I'll combine your beach time with a safari or the rest of your South Africa itinerary.