last updated 30 January 2026
The eThekwini Municipality has officially confirmed that all 23 of Durban’s regularly monitored bathing beaches remain safe for swimming, following the release of the latest coastal water quality test results dated 29 January 2026.
According to the municipality’s most recent assessment, Durban’s beaches fully comply with South Africa’s national water quality and bathing safety standards, offering reassurance to both residents and visitors enjoying the KwaZulu-Natal coastline.
Durban’s coastline continues to offer excellent swimming conditions
Durban remains one of South Africa’s most popular beach destinations, thanks to its subtropical climate, warm Indian Ocean waters, and long stretches of sandy shoreline. From the iconic Golden Mile to quieter northern and southern beaches, current conditions are ideal for:
- Swimming and bodyboarding
- Surfing and paddle sports
- Family-friendly beach outings
- Coastal leisure and recreation
With consistent water quality monitoring in place, Durban’s coastline continues to deliver a safe and enjoyable seaside experience.
How Durban’s coastal water quality is monitored
To protect public health and ensure safe recreational use of its beaches, the eThekwini Municipality operates a comprehensive coastal water quality monitoring programme, which includes:
- Regular seawater sampling at designated bathing beaches
- Laboratory-based microbiological testing
- Transparent public reporting of results
The latest findings confirm that Durban’s bathing waters meet all national guideline requirements, underlining the municipality’s ongoing commitment to environmental management and coastal safety.
Durban beaches currently open for swimming
Based on the most recent official water quality results, all 23 monitored Durban beaches are open for recreational swimming. Municipal lifeguards are deployed daily from 06:00 to 18:30, adding an important layer of safety for swimmers, surfers, and beach-going families.
Beaches currently open include:
- Point Beach
- uMgababa
- uShaka
- Addington
- North Beach
- Bay of Plenty
- Battery Beach
- Thekwini Beach
- South Beach
- Wedge Beach
- Brighton
- Westbrook
- mDloti Main
- Anstey’s Beach
- uMhlanga Main
- Bronze Beach
- Winklespruit
- Laguna Beach
- Country Club
- Reunion Beach
- Pipeline Beach
- Toti Main Beach
- Doonside Beach
All listed beaches are currently regarded as safe for swimming, subject to ongoing monitoring and changing environmental conditions.
Are any Durban beaches closed?
At present, no Durban beaches are closed due to water quality concerns. The municipality continues to monitor conditions closely and will communicate any changes should they arise.
Public swimming pools: A safe alternative
For those seeking a more controlled swimming environment, Durban offers around 40 municipal swimming pools across the metropolitan area. These facilities are particularly popular with families, young 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
Essential beach safety advice for visitors
While current beach conditions are favourable, beachgoers are encouraged to follow basic safety guidelines:
- Swim only at designated beaches during official lifeguard hours
- Pay attention to beach signage and municipal safety notices
- Exercise extra caution after heavy rainfall, which can temporarily affect water quality
Traveller takeaway
With all Durban beaches open, safe, and actively monitored, visitors can enjoy the city’s coastline with confidence. As coastal conditions can change, staying informed through official municipal updates and following basic beach safety guidance remains essential for a safe and enjoyable beach experience in Durban.
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