The Blue Flag season began on a perfect note with ideal weather for the flag raising ceremony on Monday, 2 December 2024, at Grotto Beach in Hermanus.
Blue Flag status is an internationally recognised accreditation, and municipalities must apply to WESSA (Wildlife and Environmental Society of South Africa) to obtain this prestigious certification. To achieve Blue Flag status, beaches must meet a set of criteria in four key areas of coastal management: water quality, environmental education information, environmental management and safety services.
For the 2024/25 season, the Overstrand Municipality has applied for Blue Flag status for only Grotto and Kleinmond beaches as a cost-saving measure. Grotto Beach has proudly held Blue Flag status for 24 consecutive years, while Kleinmond Beach has been part of the programme for 19 years.
At Kleinmond, the Blue Flag area starts roughly halfway between the lagoon and the sea and extends about 250m east. Please note, however, that the lagoon itself is not included. At Grotto the Blue Flag area is demarcated with two blue poles to the east and west of the ablutions and is approximately 250m.
Lifeguards will be on duty daily from 09:00 to 18:00 throughout the Blue Flag season. For safety, please swim only in designated areas where lifeguards are present, and always between the red and yellow flags.
In his opening address, Deputy Mayor Lindile Ntsabo highlighted that the Blue Flag flying at the beaches signifies to both locals and visitors that the facilities meet high standards of cleanliness, safety, and environmental care.
“We urge our communities to use the beaches responsibly and understand the importance of protecting our coastal environments for future generations. We encourage all beachgoers to take responsibility for their waste so that all can enjoy the outdoors.”
Deputy Mayor Ntsabo called on smokers to make use of the provided butt cones for proper disposal of cigarette butts. He reminded visitors that alcohol is not permitted on the beaches.
Dog walkers were reminded that dogs are not allowed on the beaches while the Blue Flag is flying. On other beaches and public open spaces, dogs must be kept on a leash. Pet owners are also asked to dispose of dog waste responsibly, ensuring it is not buried in the sand or thrown into the sea.
Lastly, beach wheelchairs are available at Grotto beach for people with disabilities, while lifeguards are on duty.
