The eThekwini Municipality has released its latest coastal water quality results (27 February 2026), providing essential guidance for travellers planning beach time in Durban.
The newest data confirms that 20 of Durban's 23 regularly monitored bathing beaches currently comply with national recreational water safety standards. This means swimming, surfing and general beach activities are permitted along most of the city’s coastline. However, three beaches remain temporarily closed as a precaution while water quality concerns are addressed.
For visitors, the message is clear: Durban's beaches are largely open — but checking the latest official updates before you swim remains critical.
What the latest Durban water quality results mean for travellers
With its warm Indian Ocean waters, expansive sandy shoreline and year-round subtropical climate, Durban remains one of South Africa’s premier coastal destinations. Water quality, however, is influenced by environmental factors such as rainfall, runoff and ocean currents.
The number of open or closed beaches can change quickly depending on testing outcomes. Travellers should therefore:
- Consult official municipal updates before heading out
- Prioritise beaches with active lifeguard services
- Exercise caution following heavy rainfall
Swimming and surfing are currently permitted at designated open beaches, subject to ongoing monitoring.
How coastal water quality is monitored in Durban
The eThekwini Municipality operates a continuous coastal monitoring programme aimed at protecting public health and ensuring transparency. The programme includes:
- Routine seawater sampling at official bathing beaches
- Accredited laboratory microbiological testing
- Public release of verified results
Testing focuses on compliance with national recreational water quality guidelines. While most beaches in Durban currently meet required thresholds, monitoring remains ongoing and dynamic.
Beaches currently open for swimming in Durban
The following 20 beaches are currently considered safe for recreational swimming (subject to continued testing):
- Point Beach
- uMgababa
- uShaka
- Bay of Plenty
- Wedge Beach
- Brighton
- Winklespruit
- Westbrook
- mDloti Main
- Anstey’s Beach
- Pipeline Beach
- Toti Main Beach
- uMhlanga Main
- Bronze Beach
- Laguna Beach
- Thekwini Beach
- Addington
- South Beach
- Country Club
- Reunion
Lifeguards are on duty daily from 06:00 to 18:30 at these beaches, making them the safest option for families and casual swimmers.
Beaches temporarily closed
The following beaches remain closed as a precaution due to water quality concerns:
- Doonside Beach
- Battery Beach
- North Beach
Closures will remain in place until testing confirms full compliance with safety standards.
Prefer guaranteed swimming conditions? Consider municipal pools
For travellers seeking more predictable swimming conditions, Durban offers approximately 40 municipal public swimming pools. These facilities are regularly maintained, monitored and supervised by lifeguards - a particularly reliable alternative for families travelling with young children.
Safety advice for beach visitors
Coastal water conditions can change rapidly, especially after heavy rainfall. To reduce health risks:
- Swim only at lifeguarded beaches
- Obey official signage and municipal advisories
- Avoid entering the ocean for 24–48 hours after heavy rain
Traveller Takeaway
The latest results confirm that the majority of Durban's bathing beaches are open and compliant with national safety standards. However, the temporary closure of three beaches underscores the importance of consulting up-to-date municipal guidance before planning a beach outing.
Durban's coastline remains accessible and inviting — provided visitors stay informed and choose their swimming locations carefully.
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