South Africa awarded 62 Blue Flag beach designations for 2026/27 season

South Africa has been awarded 62 Blue Flag sites for the 2026/27 summer season, according to the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA). The awards, announced at the National Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards in Hermanus, recognize beaches that meet strict international criteria for water quality, safety, environmental management, accessibility, and education.

In KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), the number of recognized beaches has expanded, particularly along the South Coast where 11 beaches achieved full status. The Umdoni Municipality saw a significant increase, moving from one full Blue Flag in the previous season to five for 2026/27. Additionally, several KZN beaches have been designated as pilot sites as they work toward full accreditation.

In the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, 50 beaches received full status. Cape Town specifically saw eight beaches receive the award, including Bikini Beach, Camps Bay, and Muizenberg, while four others were named pilot sites. The Blue Flag programme is coordinated internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education and requires regular independent testing for bacteria such as E. coli to ensure water safety.