Durban has a pathetic excuse for winter — it is mild and sunny and coincides with South Africa's biggest surfing event. And while those chilling around the rest of the country would love to be able to pop down to the beach in June, you — the Durbanite — might, on occasion, like to do something a little different.

If you missed the Durban July, don't despair, South Africa's playground is full of activities.

So, here's a list of things to do on those balmy Durban days when you're (secretly) just a little bit tired of the beach…

Wildlife wonders

For many, the word 'Durban' is synonymous with the word 'sharks'. Not surprisingly then, the Sharks Board features on our list of wildlife wonders. And no, this has nothing to do with rugby.

The Sharks Board (www.shark.co.za), which is in charge of maintaining the shark nets and conducts research into shark behaviour, is open to the public between 8am and 2pm on a daily basis. After an informative half an hour presentation, you can watch the daily servicing of the shark nets or a shark dissection. Cost: adults R25, children R12.

If this sounds just a little bit too technical (or gruesome) for you, take a trip to uShaka Sea World. Part of the uShaka Marine World (www.ushakamarineworld.co.za), this shipwreck-themed aquarium is one of the five largest in the world. Complete with a 1200-seater dolphin stadium, a seal pool and a penguin rookery, the aquarium provides an unparalleled glimpse into the marine world. For the adventurous, there are interactive activities in the dive tank, a snorkel reef and, for the kids, a touch pool. It is open from 9am to 4pm. Cost: adults R98, children R66.

Not shy of the scary creatures, Durban also has a number of crocodile farms. Crocodile Creek (032 944 3845), situated near Tongaat, a few kilometres past Umhlanga, is home to over 7000 Nile crocs, alligators, snakes and other reptiles. Take a guided tour, meet an original croc hunter and, if you’re up to it, touch a croc. The farm includes a number of fantastic bush and hill trails as well as exciting treetop walkways.

On to more reptilian things, Fitzsimons Snake Park (031 337 6456) is home to exotic and South African species of snake. With approximately 120 different indigenous species, including mambas, cobras and puff adders, this park is sure to provide plenty of thrills. Visitors can watch the snakes being fed on weekends. Cost: adults R12, children R6.

Not all scales and fangs, Durban also has animal attractions of the feathered variety. Amanzimtoti Bird Sanctuary is an idyllic escape, with its large shimmering lake, rolling hills and lush indigenous forests. Take a walk along the 30 minute self-guided trail which winds its way up through the forest and catch a glimpse of up to 150 bird species, including the Giant Kingfisher and Greenback Heron. Entrance is free.

Cultural tour

Begin your cultural tour at the KwaMuhle Museum, also known as the 'apartheid museum'. Housed in what was once the notorious Department of Native Affairs, the museum sheds light on the oppressive administration imposed on the black population in Durban during the twentieth century.

At the Warrior's Gate Memorable Order of Tin Hats (Moth) Museum (www.moth.org.za) you will find a collection of military relics, medals and badges commemorating those South Africans who participated in the two World Wars. Entrance is free.

If you're up for a day trip, take a journey to the KwaZulu-Natal battlefields and immerse yourself in the history of the region. Visit Isandlwana, where the British suffered its biggest military defeat ever at the hands of a native military foe (24 000 Zulu impis) or Rorke’s Drift, where 100 British troops held off 4000 impis.

Art lovers will find an impressive collection of current and historical art at the Durban Art Gallery. Established in 1892, the gallery houses art and artefacts from KwaZulu-Natal, as well as English masterpieces and the works of celebrated South African artists such as Andrew Verster and Penny Siopis. The gallery promotes art through a series of workshops and films. It also regularly hosts travelling exhibitions of works which do not belong to the gallery.

A slightly more active art experience, the African Art Centre (www.afriart.org.za) is a place where local artists and craftspeople can sell and promote their work. The centre which showcases everything from painting to beadwork to pottery also frequently holds exhibitions.

Action Adventures

Cut out the sea — and along with it surfing, diving, fishing and kite-surfing — and Durban's sporting landscape changes considerably. There is however, plenty of fun to be had on dry land.

Shongweni Resource Reserve, situated 30 kilometres north of Durban is a recognised natural heritage site. It has a variety of game, including rhino, buffalo and giraffe, as well as over 200 species of birds and interesting rock formations. You can fish or canoe at the reserve dam, or explore one of the picturesque hiking trails. Permits can be bought at the gate for a small fee (approximately R20 per person).

If you want to get your adrenalin pumping then the Single Track Africa (http://singletrack.co.za) is for you. It offers a number of thrilling mountain bike rides through the sugar cane fields and coastal forests. They supply the bikes, helmets and water bottles and along the way you can stop off to see some Zulu dancing and sample the local beer. Quad bikes can be arranged for those who would prefer not to cycle. Cost: R250 for half day, R350 for full day.

Have some good, not-so-clean fun at Action Paintball (031 777 1990), located roughly 30 kilometres from Durban at Settler's Rest in the Botha's Hill area. With 63 semi-automatic guns to choose from and four different ranges, life will suddenly become a lot more colourful. For R30 per person, you'll get a gun, goggle-mask and 25 rounds. You can play for up to three hours and once you’re done make use of the braai or picnic facilities.

After all that fast-paced action and cultural education, it is time to sit back and relax. Pack a picnic and head for the Durban Botanical Garden. Enjoy a concert at the lake or simply unwind among the cycads, orchids and palms. Alternatively, visit KwaZulu-Natal's first and only wine farm — The Stables Wine Estate. Settle down next to the vineyards, a glass of wine in one hand, and enjoy one of The Stables' delicious platters of local cheeses, meats, olives and preserves.