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Two Durban beaches temporarily closed

Country Club Beach and Reunion Beach are inaccessible at present.

Lauren Anthony
Written by
Lauren Anthony
City Expert, Time Out Durban
Durban Beach
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The eThekwini Municipality has announced that two beaches - Country Club Beach and Reunion Beach - have been temporarily closed as a precaution due to water quality concerns.

The closures are in place purely to protect public health and will be lifted as soon as water quality improves.

The good news is that 21 beaches across Durban remain open and safe for swimming, surfing, and other seaside fun.

Lifeguards are on duty, and water quality is constantly being monitored to ensure all bathers are safe.

These latest closures follow a series of temporary beach closures in December 2025, when elevated E. coli levels led to the shutdown of Blue Lagoon, eThekwini Beach, Country Club Beach, and Battery Beach.

After further testing, eThekwini Beach, Country Club Beach, and Battery Beach were reopened a few days later as water quality had returned to safe levels.

Durban Beach Update - 21 January 2026
eThekwini Municipality
Durban Beach Update - 21 January 2026
eThekwini Municipality

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Lots to do in Durban

Even with two beaches on pause, Durban is bursting with things to do:

  • Stroll, cycle or skate along the Durban beachfront promenade, especially magical at sunset
  • Dive into family fun at uShaka Marine World
  • Grab a bite at beachfront restaurants, cafés, and bars
  • Book a lesson with one of the many surf schools along the coast
  • Browse local markets and soak up that unmistakable summer energy

And if you’re keen to explore beyond the shoreline, Durban’s location makes it easy.

Head inland to the KZN Midlands or Drakensberg for cooler mountain adventures, or cruise up and down the KZN North and South Coasts for game reserves, nature trails, cultural experiences, animal parks, and adrenaline-filled activities.

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