GEORGE NEWS - Three of George’s most popular beaches - Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, and Wilderness - have once again achieved Full Blue Flag status for the 2025/26 season, reaffirming the city’s reputation for world-class coastal management and environmental care.
The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (Wessa) announced this year’s Blue Flag and Green Coast certifications at a national ceremony hosted in Port Alfred on 31 October.
A total of 97 sites were recognised across the country, including 50 full-status Blue Flag beaches, 20 pilot sites, 5 marinas, 7 tourism boats, and 15 Green Coast locations.
The Blue Flag eco-label recognises beaches and marinas that meet strict international standards for water quality, safety, environmental education, and management.
George’s trio of Blue Flag beaches continue to exemplify these standards, combining natural beauty with excellent facilities and responsible tourism practices.
Adding to the city’s coastal achievements, Gwaing Beach has been certified as George’s official Green Coast site - part of Wessa’s growing Green Coast network that celebrates natural, less-developed coastal areas where communities act as custodians of their environment.
This home-grown programme rewards conservation excellence and promotes nature-based tourism along South Africa’s shoreline.
According to Wessa CEO Cindy-Lee Cloete, the Blue Flag is “more than a symbol - it’s a promise of care, commitment, collaboration, and clean, safe coastal spaces for everyone.”
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