The eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that all 23 of Durban’s officially monitored beaches remain safe for swimming, following the release of the latest coastal water quality test results dated 14 January 2026. The announcement offers reassurance to residents, visitors, and late-summer holidaymakers enjoying Durban’s coastline after the peak festive season.
Although the December holiday rush has subsided, Durban continues to attract beachgoers thanks to its subtropical climate, warm Indian Ocean waters, and extensive sandy shoreline. From the world-famous Golden Mile to the quieter northern and southern beaches, the city remains one of South Africa’s premier coastal destinations for swimming, surfing, and family-friendly seaside activities.
Coastal water quality monitoring in Durban
To safeguard public health, the eThekwini Municipality operates a comprehensive coastal water quality monitoring programme. This includes regular sampling, laboratory testing, and transparent public reporting, particularly during high-use periods such as school holidays and long weekends.
The latest water quality assessments confirm that Durban’s bathing waters meet all required safety standards for recreational swimming, reinforcing confidence in the city’s coastal management systems.
Durban beaches currently open for swimming
Based on the most recent official assessment, all 23 monitored beaches in Durban are open for swimming. Municipal lifeguards are on duty daily from 06:00 to 18:30, providing additional safety for swimmers, surfers, and beach-going families.
Beaches currently open include:
- Point Beach
- uMgababa
- uShaka
- Addington
- North Beach
- Bay of Plenty
- Battery Beach
- Country Club
- Thekwini Beach
- South Beach
- Wedge Beach
- Brighton
- Westbrook
- mDloti Main
- Anstey’s Beach
- uMhlanga Main
- Bronze Beach
- Reunion
- Winklespruit
- Doonside Beach
- Laguna Beach
- Pipeline Beach
- Toti Main Beach
All listed beaches are considered suitable for recreational swimming under current conditions, subject to continuous monitoring and environmental changes.
Durban beaches currently closed for swimming
At present, no Durban beaches are closed due to water quality concerns.
Public swimming pools: A safe alternative
For those who prefer a more controlled swimming environment, Durban offers approximately 40 public swimming pools across the metropolitan area. These facilities are particularly popular with families, children, and fitness swimmers, especially during periods of rough sea conditions.
All municipal swimming pools are:
- Regularly maintained
- Supervised by trained lifeguards
- Continuously monitored for hygiene and safety throughout the summer season
While all beaches in Durban are currently safe for swimming, visitors are encouraged to follow basic safety precautions:
- Swim only at designated beaches during official lifeguard hours
- Obey beach signage and municipal safety notices at all times
- Exercise extra caution after heavy rainfall, which can temporarily impact water quality
Traveller takeaway
With all Durban beaches open, safe, and actively monitored, visitors can enjoy the city’s coastline with confidence. However, as coastal conditions can change, staying informed and following safety guidelines remains essential for a safe and enjoyable beach holiday in Durban.
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