The Edward (also known as The Edward Hotel or formerly Protea Hotel by Marriott Durban Edward) is a historic 4-star beachfront hotel on Durban’s Golden Mile in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Key Details
- Address: 149 OR Tambo Parade (also referred to as Marine Parade), North Beach / South Beach area, Durban, 4001.
- Phone: +27 31 337 3681.
- Official website: southernsun.com/the-edward (part of the Southern Sun group).
- Email: Available via the contact page on the official site (protected format; contact through the site or phone for direct inquiries).
- GPS: Approximately 29°51’15.97″ S | 31°02’18.11″ E.
- General Manager: Nicole Munro (as listed on the official site).
- Check-in / Check-out: 14:00 / 11:00.
- Rooms: 131 stylish rooms and suites, many with ocean or city views. Options include Standard (often city views), Superior (beachfront views, many with balconies), Executive, Family rooms, Suites, and a Presidential Suite. Rooms typically feature air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite/DStv, free uncapped WiFi, minibars or mini-fridges, tea/coffee facilities, safes, and modern bathrooms.
It opened its doors in 1911 and is known as a classic Art Deco / Victorian-elegant property (sometimes called the “Grand Dame of Durban”). It has hosted princes, presidents, celebrities, and other notable guests over more than a century. The building has a distinctive cream-colored Art Deco facade and has undergone refurbishments while retaining classic wooden features, rich fabrics, and period character.
Location and Nearby Attractions
It sits right on Durban’s iconic Golden Mile, roughly 100 metres (about 328 feet) from the beach/promenade, with easy access to North Beach and the beachfront. It is well-positioned in the “golden triangle” area near major attractions:
- uShaka Marine World (approx. 1–1.5 km / short drive or walkable in some descriptions).
- Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) – convenient for business travellers (around 1.5–2 km).
- Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World.
- Durban Funworld and the beachfront promenade (very close; walking distance).
- City centre / CBD (roughly 5–15 minutes).
- King Shaka International Airport (approx. 28–32 km / 30–40 minutes by car).
The location scores highly for sightseeing, dining, recreation, and beach access (often rated around 9.1/10 for location on major platforms).
