Durban beaches update: 22 beaches safe for swimming this summer (20 November 2025)!

Great news for holidaymakers heading to KwaZulu-Natal! As of 20 November 2025, 22 beaches along Durban’s world-famous coastline have been declared safe for swimming after the latest round of water quality tests by the eThekwini Municipality. With warm Indian Ocean currents, golden sandy shores, and Durban’s vibrant beachfront culture, the city is ready to welcome swimmers, surfers, and families looking for the perfect summer escape.

Durban – South Africa’s iconic coastal playground
With its subtropical climate, celebrated Golden Mile, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle, Durban remains one of South Africa’s most popular beach destinations. From sunrise surf sessions and weekend park runs to bustling beachfront markets and oceanfront cafés, the city’s laid-back rhythm attracts travellers from across the globe.

To safeguard this valuable coastline, the eThekwini Municipality conducts continuous water quality monitoring and publishes regular safety updates. These efforts ensure clean, safe, and environmentally responsible beach experiences for all visitors.

Beaches currently open for swimming (as of 20 November 2025)
A total of 22 Durban beaches have successfully passed the latest safety checks and are open daily for swimming, with lifeguards on duty from 06:00 to 18:30.

Open beaches include:
Point Beach • uMgababa • uShaka • Addington • North Beach • Bay of Plenty • South Beach • Wedge Beach • Battery Beach • Brighton • Pipeline Beach • Toti Main Beach • Westbrook • Thekwini Beach • Laguna Beach • Country Club • Doonside Beach • mDloti Main • Winklespruit • uMhlanga Main • Bronze Beach • Reunion

These beaches offer excellent water quality, safe swimming zones, and that unmistakable Indian Ocean atmosphere that makes Durban a year-round favourite for swimming, surfing, and bodyboarding.

Beach temporarily closed
Anstey’s Beach remains temporarily closed due to elevated contamination levels. Swimming and surfing are currently restricted, but the beachfront is still open for sunbathing, strolling, and photography. The beach will reopen once water quality meets required safety standards.

Durban’s public swimming pools
Prefer a more controlled environment? Durban operates 40 public swimming pools across the metro. Ideal for families, fitness swimmers, and anyone looking for calm waters, these pools are clean, well-maintained, and monitored by trained lifeguards.