Cape Town' s eight beaches earn prestigious Blue Flag status for 2025/26
Eight of Cape Town’s most popular beaches have once again earned Blue Flag status, an international mark of environmental, safety and water-quality excellence.
The announcement was made at the annual Blue Flag Awards ceremony held in Port Alfred on Friday. The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department confirmed that Bikini Beach, Camps Bay, Clifton 4th, Fish Hoek, Llandudno, Melkbosstrand, Muizenberg and Silwerstroomstrand have all retained their status for the 2025/26 season.
Blue Flag accreditation, overseen locally by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), is awarded only to beaches that meet strict global standards. These include clean water, effective environmental management, public education and visible safety measures.
According to WESSA’s official criteria, each Blue Flag site must conduct regular water-quality testing, maintain clean surroundings, provide adequate waste and recycling facilities, and host at least five environmental education activities each year.
Francine Higham, the City’s Mayco Member for Community Services and Health, welcomed the recognition.
“We are extremely delighted to be awarded with Blue Flag status at eight of our beaches. Not only do Blue Flags ensure a high standard of services, but we also put a high premium on beach safety, especially during the busy Festive Season,” she said.
The official Blue Flag season runs from December 1 2025 to 28 February 2026.
More than 4 300 beaches across 51 countries hold the Blue Flag distinction, but Cape Town’s consistent record stands out, reflecting the city’s long-term effort to keep its coastline clean, safe and environmentally sound.