If Durban feels busier this festive season, that’s because it is! According to eThekwini Municipality’s latest festive season update, the city is experiencing its strongest December tourism period since before Covid, with record-breaking beachfront numbers and a major spike in visitor confidence.
From early-morning beach walks to sunset promenade strolls, Durban is firmly back in summer mode, and the numbers tell a compelling story.
Festive Season by the Numbers
Here are some of the standout stats from 1 December to 21 December:
- 873,000 beach visits recorded, with zero drownings
- 201,000 visitors on the beachfront on Reconciliation Day (16 December) – the busiest day in recent history
- Over 200 children safely reunited with guardians
- 247,000 child ID armbands issued to support family safety
- Hotel occupancy at 70%
- Direct visitor spend of R1.8 billion
- Estimated contribution of over R6 billion to Durban’s GDP
- 83,000 attendees at 11 major events so far
- 61,000 event attendees expected before early January
Beach Status Update
One of the biggest attractions for Durban visitors is the warm swimming beaches and golden sands. Currently, 22 of Durban’s 23 bathing beaches are open and safe for swimming. Only Laguna Beach remains temporarily closed as a precaution while infrastructure issues are addressed.
This marks the first festive season since the 2022 floods, when nearly the entire coastline is accessible to bathers. To ensure public safety, beach water testing has been increased from fortnightly to weekly, with results shared transparently online, on social media, and at beaches.
You can check real-time updates here.
ICYMI: Durban beach update: Most beaches reopen, summer fun continues
Don’t Miss Out on the Summer Fun!
High-visibility law enforcement continues across roads, beaches and tourist hotspots, with multiple joint operations already conducted to keep visitors safe. At the same time, Durban boasts a packed calendar of concerts, sporting events, and cultural experiences… plus a great New Year’s Eve celebration planned!
With over R1 billion committed to water and sanitation upgrades, major beachfront investments underway, and visitor numbers surging, Durban is rebuilding with momentum. Whether you’re here for the beaches, events, food or family time, Durban is ready for you!
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