Durban’s Beaches Shine with 22 Open for Swimming as Water Quality Remains a Top Priority

Durban, the jewel of KwaZulu-Natal’s coastline, continues to uphold its reputation as one of South Africa’s most beloved seaside destinations. With its golden beaches, warm Indian Ocean waters, and year-round subtropical sunshine, the city draws thousands of visitors seeking the ultimate coastal escape. The eThekwini Municipality is committed to ensuring that every beach experience is both safe and enjoyable, maintaining rigorous water quality monitoring and providing regular safety updates for locals and tourists alike.

As of 20 October 2025, a total of 22 Durban beaches have passed the latest stringent water quality tests and are officially open for swimming. These beaches are patrolled daily by lifeguards from 06:00 to 18:30, offering a secure environment for swimmers, surfers, and families. The open beaches include:

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

Whether your passion is swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, or simply strolling along Durban’s iconic promenade, these beaches promise clean waters, vibrant energy, and an authentic coastal experience. The city’s beaches are renowned for their public amenities, protective shark nets, and beacons indicating safe bathing zones, all of which contribute to Durban’s status as a top-tier beach destination.

Currently, Anstey’s Beach is temporarily closed for swimming due to elevated water contamination levels. While water activities are restricted, the beach remains ideal for sunbathing, scenic walks, and photography. The eThekwini Municipality will reopen Anstey’s Beach once water quality returns to safe standards, reflecting the city’s proactive approach to public health and environmental stewardship.

For those seeking alternatives to the ocean or when beach conditions change, Durban offers 40 public swimming pools across the metro. These facilities are perfect for families, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a refreshing dip in a controlled environment, ensuring that aquatic recreation remains accessible to all, regardless of the season or weather.

Durban’s enduring appeal is rooted in its tropical climate, pristine beaches, and unwavering commitment to safety and quality. The city’s beaches are not only a playground for locals but also a magnet for international visitors, thanks to their warm waters, robust waves, and seemingly endless stretches of sand.

Many of Durban’s beaches have achieved Blue Flag status, a testament to their beauty, cleanliness, and superior management practices.

As the summer season approaches, Durban’s beach scene is set to thrive, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, and community spirit. The city’s ongoing investment in water quality monitoring, lifeguard services, and public amenities ensures that Durban remains South Africa’s ultimate playground by the sea—where every visitor can enjoy the sun, surf, and sand with confidence.