Durban’s Coastline Welcomes Summer with 22 of 23 Beaches Safe for Swimming

Travellers planning a beach holiday in KwaZulu-Natal can take comfort in the latest water quality update from the eThekwini Municipality, which confirms that 22 of Durban’s 23 beaches are currently safe for swimming. This announcement, based on rigorous coastal water tests conducted on 11 December 2025, provides clear guidance for visitors preparing to enjoy the city’s famed coastline during the busy festive season.

Durban remains one of South Africa’s premier seaside destinations, celebrated for its warm Indian Ocean waters, subtropical climate, and the iconic Golden Mile. The city’s wide sandy beaches, accessible promenade, and vibrant surf culture attract families, athletes, and holidaymakers year-round. The municipality’s ongoing water quality monitoring programme plays a vital role in safeguarding both visitor health and the marine environment, ensuring that beachgoers can enjoy safe swimming conditions.

Currently, the following 22 beaches are open daily for swimming, with lifeguards on duty from 06:00 to 18:30. Visitors are advised to swim only within designated zones for their safety:

Point Beach, uMgababa, uShaka, Addington, North Beach, Bay of Plenty, South Beach, Wedge Beach, Brighton, Pipeline Beach, Toti Main Beach, Westbrook, Thekwini Beach, Laguna Beach, Country Club, Doonside Beach, mDloti Main, Winklespruit, Reunion, Anstey's Beach, uMhlanga Main, Bronze Beach.

One beach, Battery Beach, located centrally along the Golden Mile, remains temporarily closed due to elevated contamination levels detected in recent tests. While all in-water activities such as swimming and surfing are restricted, the beachfront remains accessible for walking, relaxation, and photography. The municipality has committed to reopening Battery Beach once water quality meets safety standards.

For those preferring controlled swimming environments, Durban offers an alternative with 40 public swimming pools across the metro. These pools are maintained to strict safety standards and supervised by trained lifeguards, providing a reliable option for families and visitors seeking a secure aquatic experience.

This update aligns with the broader efforts by eThekwini Municipality to maintain Durban’s reputation as a safe and attractive coastal destination. It also reflects significant progress since the 2022 floods, which had previously impacted water quality and infrastructure. The municipality continues to invest in coastal management and sewer infrastructure upgrades to prevent contamination and protect the city’s valuable marine assets.

For African tourism professionals, this clear and timely water quality information is essential for advising clients and planning itineraries. The confirmation that nearly all Durban beaches are safe for swimming enhances the city’s appeal during the peak holiday season, supporting increased visitor confidence and satisfaction.

In summary, Durban’s coastline is well-prepared to welcome holidaymakers this summer, with 22 beaches open and safe for swimming, lifeguard services in place, and alternative swimming options available. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed, respect safety guidelines, and enjoy the vibrant beach culture that makes Durban a standout destination on the African coast.