Eight Cape Town beaches have retained their international Blue Flag status for the 2026/27 season, with four more named pilot sites, boosting the city ahead of the busy summer and festive season.

The City of Cape Town says the recognition reflects its ongoing efforts to maintain high standards of water quality, beach safety, environmental management and public amenities.

The eight beaches awarded full Blue Flag status are Bikini Beach, Camps Bay, Clifton 4th Beach, Fish Hoek, Llandudno, Melkbosstrand, Muizenberg and Silwerstroomstrand.

Chapman’s Peak in Hout Bay, Big Bay, Strand and Strandfontein have been named Blue Flag pilot sites. These beaches will undergo an assessment to determine whether they meet the programme’s international requirements.

The Blue Flag programme operates in more than 50 countries and assesses beaches on criteria including water quality, safety, accessibility and environmental management.

The City says several beaches, including most of its Blue Flag beaches, will also have new amphibious wheelchairs this season to improve access to the ocean for people with mobility impairments.

Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham, says the recognition reflects the year-round work that goes into maintaining Cape Town’s beaches.

With the summer beach season approaching, the City is urging residents and visitors to follow safety precautions, respect the coastline and help keep beaches clean and accessible.

Cape Town has participated in the Blue Flag programme for 25 years, and this is the fifth consecutive season in which eight of its beaches have achieved full status.