IN an age where we can share our self-portraits or selfies within seconds, the importance of the perfect backdrop cannot be understated.

While each selfie is carefully composed, the backdrop often times can make all the difference.

To help with your choice, Caxton Durban has composed what we consider the best selfie spots in and around Durban.

Here are five of our suggestions to help both locals and visitors.

1. North Beach photo frame (Durban Beachfront)

Giant photo frames are not new and are a staple feature at most destinations around the world and Durban is no different. The North Beach photo frame offers the perfect backdrop for visitors and locals alike with Durban’s Golden Mile in the background.

2. The Whalebone Pier (uMhlanga)

It may seem like overkill but the uMhlanga Whalebone Pier has several features in and around the pier that make the selfies so much fun.

There’s the whale tail benches, the mosaic-patterned tiles showcasing sea life found along the coastline of KwaZulu-Natal and the recently completed mural by Giffy under the pier which are all Instagramable in their own rights.

Then of course is the Umhlanga Lighthouse, one of 45 in the country and one which turned 70 years old this year.

3. Kloof bench bridge (Kloof-Upper Highway)

This may be a biased choice as we love murals, however the Kloof bench, or the Elizabeth Bridge, was once just your run of the mill bridges.

However, two years ago, The Kloof Project, a non-profit organisation, was granted permission by the eThekwini Municipality to brighten up the space with beautiful art murals.

There are several choices for a backdrop and each mural is stunning.

4. uShaka Pier (Durban beachfront)

Whether it’s sunrise or sunset, there is no beating the views or backdrops of the uShaka pier, one of 15 piers along the Durban beachfront.

You’ve got the Indian Ocean behind you and a wonderful vantage point to see the rest of the Durban beachfront.

5.The Cube (Morningside)

Full disclosure, this is a bit of an iffy one because the destination of The Cube itself is not the main attraction; what is a great attraction is the views of Durban that steal the show.

The grassy area is a great place to chill out, relax and view the ocean, the Moses Mabhida Stadium, or the rest of Morningside.

This is also one of the stop-off points for the Durban Ricksha Bus tour which stops by daily.

Honorable mentions: Durban canal boat cruise and Durban Ricksha Bus

The Point Waterfront Canal is one of the gems in Durban. There are a few options for people to participate in, including stand-up paddle boarding, gondola rides, the yellow paddle boats and what we are focusing on, canal boat cruises.

The luxury pontoon boat seats up to 12 people.

The 30-minute relaxing cruise takes you along the Durban Point Waterfront Canals with general information shared by tour guides on the developments around the canals and their history. The cruise is suitable for all ages and is a great friend and family experience.

The double-decker bus will take you on a tour of Durban while you absorb the sites around the city, including the Victoria Street Market, Francis Farewell Square, the beachfront, Wilson’s Wharf and the Cube viewpoint.

The top section of the bus guarantees the best views.

For bookings, contact 031 322 4209 or purchase your ticket at the North Beach Tourism office on Marine Parade (North Beach).

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