20 Blue Flag beaches in the Garden Route

GEORGE NEWS - Twenty Garden Route beaches have been awarded Blue Flag Status this year by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (Wessa), in partnership with coastal municipalities and private entities.

Three of the Garden Route beaches were awarded pilot Blue Flag status.

South Africa has participated in the Blue Flag Programme for 23 years, since 2001.

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Mayor Andrew Stroebel, the awards symbolise that beaches have been recognised for their excellent water quality, safety, security, sound environmental management, and accessibility.

“Blue Flag Beaches have improved tourism facilities and include an enhanced approach to the management of coastal systems,” says Stroebel.

Stroebel also shared his gratitude to the coastal municipalities for their dedicated efforts.

“Thank you to Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George and Bitou municipalities for your commitment to applying for Blue Flag Status and maintaining our beautiful beaches to the highest standards.

"Your hard work is truly commendable. This achievement not only boosts the image of the Garden Route but also reinforces our region as a top destination for both locals and visitors."

The Blue Flag Pilot Sites in George include Leentjiesklip, and in Mossel Bay it includes Tweekuilen and Suiderkruis beaches.

On top of the beaches that received Blue Flag Status, the following marinas and sustainable boats also received Blue Flags.

Two marinas and two sustainable boating tourism operators have been awarded Blue Flag status. The marinas are Thesen Islands and Thesen Harbour in Knysna, while the sustainable boats are Robberg Express and Oceanic Express operated by Offshore Adventures in Plettenberg.

Garden Route beaches with successful Blue Flag accreditation include the following:

George