The eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that the vast majority of Durban’s monitored beaches are currently safe for swimming, following the release of the latest coastal water quality test results dated 20 January 2026. According to the official assessment, 21 of the city’s 23 regularly monitored beaches meet required safety standards, reaffirming Durban’s reputation as one of South Africa’s leading year-round beach destinations.
Despite the end of the peak December holiday season, Durban continues to attract visitors thanks to its subtropical climate, warm Indian Ocean waters, and long stretches of sandy coastline. From the vibrant Golden Mile to quieter northern and southern beaches, conditions remain favourable for swimming, surfing, and family-friendly coastal activities.
Coastal water quality monitoring in Durban
To safeguard public health and ensure the safe recreational use of its coastline, the eThekwini Municipality operates a comprehensive coastal water quality monitoring programme. This ongoing initiative includes:
- Regular seawater sampling at designated beaches
- Laboratory-based microbiological testing
- Transparent public reporting, especially during high-use periods such as school holidays and long weekends
The most recent test results confirm that Durban's bathing waters comply with national safety standards, reinforcing confidence in the city’s environmental management and coastal monitoring systems.
Durban beaches currently open for swimming
Based on the latest official water quality assessment, 21 monitored beaches in Durban are open for recreational swimming. Municipal lifeguards are deployed daily from 06:00 to 18:30, providing an added layer of safety for swimmers, surfers, and beachgoing 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
- Doonside Beach
- Laguna Beach
- Pipeline Beach
- Toti Main Beach
All listed beaches are considered suitable for swimming, subject to ongoing monitoring and changing environmental conditions.
Durban beaches currently closed
At present, Reunion Beach and Country Club Beach remain closed due to water quality concerns. The municipality continues to monitor conditions closely, and updates will be issued once it is safe for these beaches to reopen.
Public swimming pools: A safe alternative
For visitors seeking a more controlled swimming environment, Durban offers approximately 40 municipal 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 public swimming pools are:
- Regularly maintained
- Supervised by trained lifeguards
- Continuously monitored for hygiene and safety throughout the summer season
Essential beach safety advice for visitors
While current conditions are favourable, beachgoers are reminded to follow basic safety guidelines:
- Swim only at designated beaches during official lifeguard hours
- Always obey beach signage and municipal safety notices
- Exercise additional caution after heavy rainfall, which can temporarily impact water quality
Traveller takeaway
With most of Durban's beaches open, safe, and actively monitored, visitors can enjoy the city’s coastline with confidence. As coastal conditions can change rapidly, staying informed through official updates and adhering to safety guidance remains essential for a safe and enjoyable beach experience in Durban.
Subscribe for updates:
Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa.
No comments:
Post a Comment