PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Attention
13 November 2025

The KZN South Coast continues to shine as one of South Africa’s top seaside destinations, proudly boasting 8 Blue Flag beaches and 6 pilot beaches, the highest number in KwaZulu-Natal. In addition, the region is home to 3 Marine Protected Areas, 2 world-class biodiversity sites and the highest number of tidal pools in the province, making it a haven for ocean lovers and adventure seekers alike.

“Our coastline is one of our greatest treasures, offering exceptional marine biodiversity and family-friendly recreational spaces,” says Dr. Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “We encourage visitors to follow simple beach safety guidelines so that everyone can enjoy a safe and memorable summer experience along our beautiful shores.”

As holidaymakers prepare to visit the coast, South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) reminds all beachgoers to prioritise safety while enjoying the waves. Here are some essential beach safety tips to help you make the most of your visit:

• Only Swim at Beaches with Lifeguards

The KZN South Coast boasts 58 golden beaches, but not all always have lifeguards on duty. Selected beaches are monitored by trained lifeguards, with duty hours varying from beach to beach, so always check local signage or information boards before swimming.

• Only Swim Between Designated Flags

The red and yellow flags indicate the safest swimming zones monitored by lifeguards. Always stay between them.

• Never Drink Alcohol Before Swimming

Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination and reaction time, greatly increasing the risk of drowning.

• Never Swim Alone

Always have a swimming buddy. It’s safer and ensures help is nearby if needed.

• Adult Supervision is Vital

Children should always be closely monitored by adults when near or in the water, even in shallow areas.

• Call for Help if You Witness a Person in Distress

Alert a lifeguard or call emergency services immediately do not enter the water unless you are trained to perform a rescue.

• Beware of Inflatable Toys

Inflatables can easily be carried out to sea by strong winds or currents. Keep them close to the shore or avoid them in open water.

• Beware of Rip Currents

If caught in a rip current, remain calm, float and swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of the current’s pull.

• Beware of Spring Tides

Spring tides can cause stronger currents and higher waves than usual always check tide times before heading to the beach.

Discover the Magic of the KZN South Coast This Summer

Make the most of the sunny season by exploring more than just the beaches, discover world-class dive sites, thrilling adventure activities, scenic hiking and biking trails, pristine nature reserves and top-rated golf courses. The KZN South Coast offers a wealth of experiences for all ages to enjoy safely and responsibly.

To find out what’s happening across the region, explore the SCTIE Events Calendar for upcoming festivals, markets, cultural experiences and family-friendly activities.

For more information on the KZN South Coast’s attractions, events, and holiday experiences, visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za or follow @southcoasttourism on social media.

Keep updated on all on South Coast activities by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. Check out the latest Southern Explorer Route Guide for the KZN South Coast here.

Follow the hashtags #ItsSouthCoastTime#DiscoverSouthCoast #SouthCoastVibes #EndlessSummer #CoastalAdventure #FamilyOnTheCoast #CelebrateSouthCoast

/ENDS

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St Michael’s Beach

Uvongo Beach

Ramsgate Blue Flag Beach

Umzumbe Beach

Scottburgh Beach

Margate Beach

About KZN South Coast

Known as the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom, the KZN South Coast stretches 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. Here, the spirit of adventure can be discovered among the many cultural experiences, as well as the 35 nature trails and 58 beaches, ideal for activities like river rafting, abseiling, suspension bridges, paintball, surfing, SUP, canoeing, beach horse rides, shark cage diving and free diving. Nicknamed ‘The Golf Coast’, there are 11 golf courses on the KZN South Coast ranging in difficulty, with endless hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails for more rugged excursions. Promoting sustainability, the KZN South Coast has a growing agri-tourism sector that offers world-class produce and hosts tours and excursions. The region boasts several permanently managed Blue Flag beaches and is home to some of the world’s top diving sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. The originality continues with the annual Sardine Run, coined the #GreatestShoalonEarth, which is the largest biomass migration on earth and a marvel to witness. The region’s many nature reserves are inhabited by indigenous birds and wildlife, and it holds the title of ‘smallest desert on earth’, The Red Desert in Port Edward. The KZN South Coast is a fast-emerging MICE destination which has played host to several high-profile events including The Bike Fest, The Conservation Symposium, The Ocean Festival, Uvukile Gospel Festival, Ugu Jazz, Ugu International Film Festival, and the South Coast Fever MTB & Trail Run Series, The Ugu Maskandi Festival, South Coast Marathon.

For more information please contact:
South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)
Cell: 039 682 7944
Email:  vanessa@sctie.co.za