last updated 13 February 2026
The eThekwini Municipality has released its latest coastal water quality results (12 February 2026), bringing important information for travellers planning time on Durban’s famous beaches.
According to the newest testing, 22 of the city’s 23 regularly monitored bathing beaches currently meet national safety standards, meaning swimming and beach activities are possible along most of the coastline. However, one beach remains temporarily closed while water quality concerns persist.
For visitors, the key takeaway is simple: Durban’s beaches are largely open, but choosing the right beach - and checking the latest updates - remains essential.
What the latest Durban water quality results mean for travellers
Durban’s warm Indian Ocean, long sandy shoreline and year-round sunshine continue to draw visitors. However, water quality along the coastline remains dynamic, with the number of closed beaches changing frequently based on ongoing testing. Travellers should therefore rely on the latest official updates when choosing where to swim.
Swimming, surfing and beach walks are currently possible at designated open beaches, with ongoing monitoring in place. Conditions can change quickly, particularly after rainfall.
How coastal water quality is monitored in Durban
The municipality operates a continuous coastal monitoring programme designed to protect public health and provide transparent updates. The programme includes:
- Routine seawater sampling at official bathing beaches
- Laboratory microbiological testing
- Public release of verified results
While most beaches currently meet national guidelines, testing continues to ensure safety standards are maintained.
Beaches currently open for swimming in Durban
The following 22 beaches in Durban are currently considered safe for recreational swimming, subject to continued monitoring:
- Point Beach
- uShaka Beach
- North Beach
- Bay of Plenty
- Wedge Beach
- Addington Beach
- South Beach
- Battery Beach
- Country Club Beach
- Brighton Beach
- Westbrook Beach
- mDloti Main Beach
- Anstey’s Beach
- Pipeline Beach
- Toti Main Beach
- uMgababa Beach
- Winklespruit Beach
- Reunion Beach
- uMhlanga Main Beach
- Bronze Beach
- Laguna Beach
- Thekwini Beach
Lifeguards are on duty daily from 06:00 to 18:30 at these beaches, making them the safest choice for swimming and family visits.
Beach still closed due to water quality concerns
The following beach in Durban remains temporarily closed as a precaution:
The closure will remain in place until testing confirms that water quality has returned to safe levels.
Public swimming pools: a reliable alternative
If you prefer guaranteed swimming conditions, Durban's network of around 40 municipal swimming pools offers a dependable option. These facilities are regularly maintained, monitored and supervised by lifeguards, making them especially suitable for families travelling with children.
Safety tips for visiting Durban’s beaches
Water quality along the coastline can change rapidly, particularly after heavy rainfall. Visitors are advised to:
- Swim only at lifeguarded beaches
- Follow official signage and municipal updates
- Avoid swimming for at least a day or two after heavy rain
Traveller takeaway
The latest results confirm that most of Durban's bathing beaches are currently open. However, the ongoing closure of one beach highlights why checking the latest updates before heading to the coast remains essential. Conditions continue to be monitored and may change as further testing takes place.
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