Durban beachgoers will have fewer swimming spots to choose from this week. The eThekwini Municipality confirmed that as of 31 July, five popular beaches have been closed for swimming due to poor water quality.
The closures affect:
Reunion
Westbrook
Anstey’s Beach
Doonside Beach
Winklespruit
While visitors can still enjoy walking, sunbathing, and other seaside activities at these locations, swimming is strictly off-limits until further notice.
What’s Behind the Closures
Water quality tests showed E. coli levels far above the safe limit of 500 counts per 100ml. The latest results paint a worrying picture:
Date Beach E. Coli Result Status
22/07/2025 Westbrook 2,613 Closed
29/07/2025 Anstey’s Beach 3,255 Closed
29/07/2025 Doonside Beach 813 Closed
29/07/2025 Winklespruit 862 Closed
25/07/2025 Reunion 19,863 Closed
Reunion Beach’s reading is nearly 40 times the safe threshold, prompting urgent action from municipal authorities.
Still Plenty of Beaches to Visit
Not all is lost for Durban’s ocean lovers. 18 other beaches remain open for swimming between 06:00 and 18:30, including favourites like uMhlanga Main, North Beach, uShaka, and Toti Main Beach.
Currently open for swimming:
Point Beach • uMhlanga Main • uMgababa • Toti Main Beach • Pipeline Beach • uShaka • Addington • Country Club • Thekwini Beach • North Beach • Bay of Plenty • Laguna Beach • South Beach • Wedge Beach • Mdloti Main • Battery Beach • Brighton • Bronze Beach
The municipality says beach and pool statuses will be updated regularly, and urges the public to check official notices before heading out.
Main Image: BusinessLIVE
