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There’s no reason to get blue this summer…unless you’re searching for Blue Flag beaches! Fortunately, we’ve found the top spot for these pristine bathing spaces: The KZN South Coast!
The Blue Flag Awards Ceremony on 31 October in Port Alfred once again revealed the KZN South Coast to have the highest number of Blue Flag Beaches. This is an internationally recognised standard, locally managed by the Wildlife & Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), which promises you global standards for safety, water quality, environmental management, amenities, and conservation education.
Where are the Blue Flag Beaches?
- Hibberdene Beach (10-year recognition)
- Marina Beach
- Ramsgate Beach
- Southport Beach
- Trafalgar Beach
- Umzumbe Beach (15-year recognition)
- St Michael’s Beach
- Pennington Beach (awarded for the second consecutive year)
And the Pilot Blue Flag Beaches?
- Port Edward Beach
- Mtwentweni Beach
- Rocky Bay Beach
- Preston Beach
- Umthwalume Beach
- Scottburgh Beach
Beyond its Blue Flag accolades, the KZN South Coast also boasts the highest number of tidal pools in KZN, offering protected bathing for families and ocean lovers. There are also two of the world’s best dive sites right here: Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks, famous for their sharks, reefs, and spectacular marine life.
ICYMI: The best beaches in Durban
The ‘I Love Summer’ Beach Programme
To celebrate the festive season, the region is rolling out its vibrant I Love Summer beach series. This is a free-to-attend beach programme that includes beach volleyball, soccer, touch rugby, sandcastle competitions, treasure hunts, hula-hoop challenges, music, games, and prizes from Cell C and Coca-Cola.
- Venue: Margate/Lucian Main Beach
- Dates: 5 January 2026 | 8 January 2026 | 11 January 2026
- Time: 10am to 2pm
- Entry: Free
The KZN South Coast truly has your summer needs covered!
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