KZN South Coast Blue Flag Beaches

With 7 Blue Flag Beaches for 2026

THE KZN SOUTH COAST HAS THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF BLUE FLAG BEACHES IN THE PROVINCE.

Discover the sheer beauty of the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, where seven of the province beaches have proudly earned the prestigious Blue Flag accreditation for the 2025/2026 season. These stretches of golden sand and crystal waters meet the highest international standards for water quality, safety, accessibility and environmental management. Whether you’re planning a sun-soaked getaway or simply exploring South Coast gems, this updated list is your go-to guide for the finest seaside destinations down the coast.

The KZN South Coast Blue Flag Beaches 2025/2026

Pennington Beach – Umdoni Municipality
Hibberdene Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
Umzumbe Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
Southport Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
Ramsgate Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
Marina Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
Trafalgar Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
St Michael Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality

The KZN South Coast Blue Flag Pilot Beaches 2025/2026

Scottburgh Beach – Umdoni Municipality
Preston Beach – Umdoni Municipality
Rocky Bay Beach – Umdoni Municipality
Umthwalume Beach – Umdoni Municipality

What is a blue flag beach

The iconic Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised voluntary awards for beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats. In order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained.

KZN South Coast Blue Flag Beach Map

Blue Flag Beach Requirements

Water safety and sea water quality are the primary requirements for gaining Blue Flag status.

Bathing water quality must be tested regularly and displayed on the Blue Flag information board. A map showing the boundaries of the Blue Flag beach area and the location of key facilities and services must also be posted.

Blue Flag Beach Pilot program

St Michael’s and Scottburgh Beaches have been recognised under the Blue Flag Pilot Programme for the 2024/2025 season — a significant step toward achieving full Blue Flag status. This initiative highlights the commitment of local municipalities and community partners to improving beach management, environmental awareness, and visitor facilities along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. As pilot beaches, both sites are working to meet the international standards for water quality, safety, and environmental education set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and WESSA. Their inclusion in the programme reflects ongoing progress and dedication to maintaining clean, safe, and sustainable coastal destinations for residents and holidaymakers alike.

St Michaels Blue Flag Beach

St Michaels Beach, located on the vibrant South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is one of the province’s most popular Blue Flag beaches. Known for its golden sands, gentle lagoon, and excellent swimming conditions, it’s a favourite spot for both locals and visitors. The beach offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with safe bathing, lifeguards on duty, and a variety of nearby restaurants and cafés. Whether you’re surfing, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun, St Michaels Beach perfectly captures the laid-back coastal charm of the South Coast.

Ramsgate Blue Flag Beach

Ramsgate Beach, located in a lovely village along the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal has many features to it, this pristine blue flag beach is known for its stunning views, restaurants such as The Blue Lagoon and the well-known Waffle House and its family-friendly picnic areas.

uMzumbe Beach

uMzumbe Beach is one of the KZN South Coast’s most tranquil and unspoiled coastal gems. Nestled between Hibberdene and Pumula, this Blue Flag beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and relaxation. Surrounded by lush coastal vegetation and golden sands, uMzumbe is ideal for swimming, surfing, and long beach walks. The area is known for its friendly local community, laid-back atmosphere, and excellent surf conditions, making it a favourite for both locals and holidaymakers. With lifeguards on duty during peak times and several charming nearby accommodation options, uMzumbe Beach is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic, peaceful South Coast experience.

Trafalgar Beach

Trafalgar Beach is one of the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast’s most pristine and picturesque destinations, celebrated for its Blue Flag status and untouched natural charm. This beautiful beach offers a peaceful escape with its wide sandy shores, calm tidal pool, and clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The nearby marine protected area is home to fascinating fossilised reefs and rich marine life, making it a favourite spot for nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by coastal forest and walking trails, Trafalgar provides the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Its clean, well-maintained environment and safe swimming conditions make it a top choice for families and visitors looking to experience the best of the South Coast’s natural beauty.

Marina Beach

Marina Beach, often called the “Honolulu of the South Coast,” is one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most scenic and popular Blue Flag beaches. Located between Southbroom and San Lameer, this stunning stretch of coastline is known for its golden sands, clear blue waters, and lush tropical surroundings. The beach offers safe swimming conditions, lifeguards on duty, and excellent facilities, making it ideal for families and holidaymakers. Marina Beach is also a favourite for surfers, sunbathers, and nature lovers, with nearby rock pools and coastal trails to explore. Its natural beauty, combined with its cleanliness and relaxed atmosphere, has earned Marina Beach a reputation as one of the jewels of the KZN South Coast.

Hibberdene Beach

Hibberdene Beach is a vibrant and family-friendly Blue Flag beach located on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, known for its inviting waters and relaxed holiday atmosphere. As one of the region’s most popular coastal spots, it offers excellent swimming, snorkelling, and fishing opportunities, with lifeguards on duty and safe bathing areas protected by shark nets. The beach’s tidal pool and nearby picnic facilities make it perfect for families, while the town itself provides plenty of shops, eateries, and accommodation options just a short walk away. Surrounded by natural beauty and a welcoming community, Hibberdene Beach captures the essence of the South Coast lifestyle — warm, scenic, and full of coastal charm.

Pennington Beach

Pennington Beach is a serene and picturesque coastal escape on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, known for its pristine shoreline, lush coastal forest, and peaceful village atmosphere. This unspoiled beach is ideal for long walks, swimming, and fishing, with calm conditions and lifeguards on duty during peak seasons. Nature lovers are drawn to Pennington for its abundant birdlife and nearby hiking trails, while the rocky outcrops and tidal pools make it a great spot for family adventures. The area also boasts nearby golf courses and cozy seaside accommodation, offering the perfect balance between relaxation and recreation. Pennington Beach is a true South Coast gem — quiet, scenic, and filled with natural charm.

Southport Beach

Southport Beach is a charming Blue Flag beach on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, loved for its clean, calm waters and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Located just north of Port Shepstone, it offers excellent swimming and snorkelling conditions, with lifeguards and shark nets ensuring safety for the whole family. The tidal pool, shaded picnic spots, and nearby rock pools make it a favourite for both locals and holidaymakers. Southport’s natural beauty, combined with its well-maintained facilities and friendly village vibe, creates the perfect setting for a peaceful seaside getaway. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or enjoy a classic South Coast beach day, Southport Beach delivers it all.