Why visit a Blue Flag Beach this summer?
What could be more idyllic than a summer’s day at a beautiful, clean and safe beach? This summer, you can find a beach like this near you by simply looking for a Blue Flag!Â
Blue Flag recognition is your guide to South Africa’s 48 beaches that maintain world-class standards in safety, cleanliness, water quality, facilities and accessibility, as well as opportunities to learn and participate in protecting our magnificent beaches.Â
According to the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), here are their top five reasons why you visit a Blue Flag beach:
Five reasons
1. Safety first– Blue Flag beaches prioritise visitor safety with:
– trained lifeguards, first-aid stations, and clearly marked swimming and surfing safe zones;
– clear signage boards with safety warnings, beach rules and regulations, beach signboards showing key facilities, lifeguard duty hours, emergency contacts and sea water quality results;  Â
– the presence of law enforcement officers or security guards at most urban beaches.
Remember:Â Still keep an eye on your valuables and children!
2. Cleanliness– these Blue Flag criteria aim to ensure a worry-free beach experience:
– Ongoing efforts by municipalities to keep the beaches clean and free of litter.
– Convenient waste disposal and recycling facilities, so visitors can contribute to sustainability practices.
– Visitors can also contribute by adhering to beach rules, not leaving any litter, and reporting concerns to onsite beach managers or WESSA via blueflag@wessa.co.za or 064 8800491.Â
Remember: Leave no trace behind, please pick up after yourself.
3. Water quality standards so you can swim with confidence:
– Sea water quality that meets the highest global standards maintained through rigorous and regular testing by independent, accredited laboratories.
– Daily visual checks of sea state for oil films, floatables, debris and inflows of possible pollution from rivers, estuaries or stormwater drains.
Top tip: The latest water quality results are displayed on Blue Flag beach signboards and are accessible online through the WESSA website, by clicking on the beach of interest on the map located atwww.wessa.org.za/sustainable-tourism/Â
4. Facilities and accessibility for a hassle-free trip include:
– Safe access paths to the beach, including parking areas.
– Access and facilities at certain beaches for those with physical disabilities, such as secured steps with handrails and ramps for wheelchairs. Some beaches have beach wheelchairs.
– Clean and well-maintained facilities, including hygienic and clean restrooms.
– Waste disposal and recycling facilities to keep areas clean and inviting.
– Many Blue Flag beaches have nappy-changing facilities.
– All the Blue Flag beaches have access to potable water.
Top tip: Check out the Blue Flag map onwww.wessa.org.za/sustainable-tourism/ to see if the Blue Flag beach you are visiting offers access for physical disabilities. Â
5. Learning and joining in
Beyond sun and surf, Blue Flag beaches offer educational activities like beach clean-ups, guided walks, and talks about marine life. You will also find information about the rich coastal biodiversity or cultural heritage. These programmes inspire visitors to engage with conservation efforts and protect coastal ecosystems.Â
Top tip: The dates and times of environmental education activities will be listed on the Blue Flag signboard.Â
Top tips for a hassle-free trip before heading out to the beach
As with any trip, preparing for a visit to the beach this summer requires careful planning to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Before heading down to the beach make sure to:
- Research your destination for updates on facilities and activities. Visit your local municipality website for more information.
- Consult a weather App for predicted conditions, including wave heights and tides. Remember rip currents are strongest during Full and New Moon periods!
- Pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles.
- Remember to secure your personal belongings while down at the beach.Â
To find a Blue Flag beach closest to you, check out the Blue Flag MAP.
