Bumper Festive Season Forecast as KZN South Coast Earns Highest Number of Blue Flag Beaches in KZN

The Blue Flag status is the global gold standard for beach quality, and on Monday, 28 October 2024, it was announced that the KZN South Coast continues to lead with the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in KwaZulu-Natal. This sets a promising tone for the upcoming festive season, with the region expecting a surge of tourists eager to enjoy a top-quality beach destination.

KZN South Coast's Blue Flag Achievements

The KZN South Coast proudly adds one new full Blue Flag beach to its roster, with another beach earning a special certificate for its long-standing participation. Out of the 48 Blue Flag beaches across South Africa, the KZN South Coast claims 7, with an additional 5 beaches holding Blue Flag Pilot status, showcasing the region’s dedication to international water quality and safety standards.

The announcement, made by WESSA (The Wildlife and Environmental Society of South Africa) at the V&A Waterfront, was celebrated by the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). The news aligns perfectly with the region’s bold festive campaign, ‘Embrace Summer!’, and reaffirms why the KZN South Coast is a must-visit seaside destination.

Commitment to Quality and Tourism

“We are proud to have received notification that the KZN South Coast retains the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the province,” said Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of SCTIE. “This recognition reflects our serious commitment to maintaining the quality of our beaches, which are a major tourism draw and a key driver of the local economy. Credit must also go to community initiatives like Tidy Towns and Keep Scottburgh Beautiful, which enhance beach cleanliness and safety.”

Dr Sibiya encourages holidaymakers to consider the pristine Blue Flag beaches when planning their festive getaways and looks forward to welcoming them to the KZN South Coast to ‘embrace summer’.

What Blue Flag Status Means

Blue Flag certification is awarded based on strict environmental management standards set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Beaches must meet criteria for water quality, safety, and public environmental education, assessed by a South African National Jury and an international panel in Europe. WESSA has managed the Blue Flag Programme locally since 2001, underscoring a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

KZN South Coast’s Blue Flag Beaches 2024/2025

1. Marina Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
2. Trafalgar Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
3. Southport Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
4. Umzumbe Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
5. Ramsgate Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
6. Hibberdene Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
7. Pennington Beach – Umdoni Municipality

Blue Flag Pilot Beaches 2024/2025

1. Rocky Bay Beach – Umdoni Municipality
2. Preston Beach – Umdoni Municipality
3. Umthwalume Beach – Umdoni Municipality
4. Scottburgh Beach – Umdoni Municipality
5. St Michael’s Beach – Ray Nkonyeni Municipality

A Region Steeped in Natural Beauty

Alongside these award-winning beaches, the KZN South Coast features the most tidal pools in the province and world-renowned dive sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks, two of the three Marine Protected Areas in the region. Visitors can enjoy activities like surfing, kiteboarding, stand-up paddling, fishing, and rock pool exploring.

Embrace Summer on the KZN South Coast!

The KZN South Coast offers more than just pristine beaches. Inland, visitors can explore hiking, biking, and 4x4 trails in lush nature reserves perfect for birdwatching and picnics. For adrenaline lovers, Dezzi Raceway offers motorsport excitement. The region also provides rich cultural and heritage experiences, and agri-tourism outings that feature fresh local produce and adventure activities. Additionally, the KZN South Coast is a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Events) destination, ideal for business travellers.

For more information, visit the KZN South Coast website or follow South Coast Tourism on social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Download the ‘Explore KZN South Coast’ app for more updates.

Watch why KZN South Coast is a top destination here and check out the latest Southern Explorer Route Guide here.

Press Release Submitted By

Company Name: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)Contact Person: Not specifiedWebsite: www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za

Total Words: 662

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Social Media Post

Bumper Festive Season Forecast for KZN South Coast!With the most Blue Flag beaches in KZN, the KZN South Coast is your perfect summer destination. From pristine beaches to thrilling adventures, come 'Embrace Summer' with us!

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