Beachgoers from Eswatini planning to cross into KwaZulu Natal for New Year’s Day celebrations have been advised to avoid Laguna Beach in Durban after authorities announced its temporary closure due to water quality concerns.
The eThekwini Municipality confirmed that Laguna Beach, located in Durban’s central region, will be closed to bathing and swimming on January 1 following recent heavy rains that affected water quality along parts of the coastline. The closure follows an initial notice that four beaches would be shut, but this was later revised after further assessment.
Municipal officials said the heavy rainfall over the past weekend led to contamination, prompting precautionary action to protect public health. While Laguna Beach remains closed, 22 other bathing beaches across Durban will remain open and are considered safe for swimming and recreational use.
According to the municipality, beaches in the central, southern and northern regions, including popular spots along the Golden Mile such as North Beach, South Beach and Addington Beach, as well as uMhlanga, are unaffected and continue to welcome visitors. These areas are expected to draw large crowds during the festive period, particularly on New Year’s Day.
Water sampling has been conducted at all affected sites, with the municipality saying test results will be shared once available. The closure will remain in place until water quality shows improvement.
This is not the first such incident during the festive season. Earlier in December, four other beaches, Blue Lagoon, eThekwini Beach, Country Club Beach and Battery Beach, were temporarily closed after pollution was detected. A team of senior municipal managers was appointed to investigate the source of the contamination and put corrective measures in place.
Holidaymakers have also been assured of heightened safety measures, with open beaches monitored by lifeguards and supported by a strong Metro Police presence working alongside the South African Police Service to manage crowds and ensure safety.
For many families from Eswatini who traditionally travel to Durban’s coastline for year end holidays, alternative beaches such as uShaka Beach, Umdloti and quieter South Coast options remain available for swimming and leisure as the New Year begins.
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