KwaDukuza has doubled its Blue Flag allocation, with four local beaches earning the prestigious status for the 2025-2026 season – up from two last year.

Blythedale Beach, Salt Rock Main Beach, Thompson’s Bay Beach and Willard Beach were awarded Blue Flag status by the Wildlife & Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) for meeting global standards of environmental care, safety and water quality.

The announcement was made at the WESSA National Blue Flag & Green Coast Awards in Port Alfred on October 31. KwaDukuza joins Ray Nkonyeni and Umzumbe as the only KwaZulu-Natal municipalities to receive the distinction this season.

The Blue Flag programme sets 33 criteria covering safety, education, accessibility and cleanliness.

Willard Beach’s reinstatement marks a major comeback after it lost full status last year due to sewage leaks linked to loadshedding. It retained Pilot Blue Flag status while environmental improvements were made.

Salt Rock Main Beach is KwaDukuza’s newest Blue Flag location, reflecting growing recognition of the area’s coastal quality.

Mayor Siduduzo Gumede said the achievement affirms KwaDukuza’s role as the tourism heartbeat of KZN.

“This status reflects our commitment to sustainable tourism, public safety and coastal protection,” said Gumede.

“We will raise these flags with pride, our beaches now compete on a global stage.”

The Ballito UIP continues weekly water quality tests to maintain standards ahead of the festive season.

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