The long-awaited Blue Flag beaches have been announced! However, the city advises that even beaches without Blue Flag status are still safe for bathing – despite some false reports.
While Durban Central missed out, the KZN North and South Coasts are celebrating being officially recognised for outstanding beach management and environmental excellence at the 2025/26 Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards, held in Port Alfred on Friday, 31 October.
The Blue Flag programme, run locally by WESSA (the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa), recognises beaches that meet international standards for water quality, safety, facilities, and environmental education.
The region, extending from North to South Coast, scooped 12 full Blue Flag beaches, six Pilot Blue Flag beaches, and two Green Coast sites – a new programme that celebrates natural, less-developed coastal areas that promote nature-based tourism.
“Our Blue Flag and Green Coast programmes are more than symbols, they’re a promise. A promise of care, of commitment, of collaboration, of clean water, safe swimming, well-managed beaches, and a world-class coastal experience that celebrates South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage,” says WESSA CEO, Cindy-Lee Cloete, during her address.
An award-winning coastline
Among KZN South Coast’s standout achievers are Hibberdene Beach, holding Blue Flag status for 10 consecutive years, and Umzumbe Beach, recognised for 15 years of excellence.
Blue Flag Beaches: KZN North and South Coast
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (KZN South Coast):
• Hibberdene Beach
• Marina Beach
• Ramsgate Beach
• Southport Beach
• Trafalgar Beach
• Umzumbe Beach
• St Michael's Beach
Umdoni Municipality (KZN South Coast):
• Pennington Beach
KwaDukuza Municipality (KZN North Coast):
• Blythedale Beach
• Salt Rock Main Beach
• Thompson Bay Beach
• Willard Beach
Pilot Blue Flag Beaches in KwaZulu-Natal
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (KZN South Coast):
• Port Edward Beach
• Mtwentweni Beach
Umdoni Municipality (KZN South Coast):
• Rocky Bay Beach
• Preston Beach
• Umthwalume Beach
• Scottburgh Beach
Green Coast Awards
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (KZN South Coast):
• Trafalgar Marine & Surrounds
• Leisure Beach
Warning against fake ‘Red Flag’ reports
While the region celebrates its Blue Flags, eThekwini Municipality has issued a warning about a fraudulent website — redflagbeach.com — falsely claiming that Durban’s beaches are unsafe. The City confirmed the site is fake and has taken legal steps to have it shut down.
Officials have reassured residents and holidaymakers that Durban’s beaches are open, safe, and regularly tested for water quality. As summer kicks off, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the East Coast’s award-winning coastline, where the Blue Flags are flying high.
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