South Brighton Beach

South Brighton beach is a small beach on a very long coastline in the Pegasus Bay area of Christchurch, New Zealand. It is probably not the busiest beach in Canterbury but it is one of the safer beaches. Our patrol area is usually set up on the beach in front of the clubhouse between the Red and Yellow flags which indicate the swimming area that is patrolled by lifeguards. 

Due to the vast area of beach and surf along the Canterbury coastline not patrolled by lifeguards with hazards like holes and rips, we strongly advise for your safety to swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags. South Brighton beach is usually safe however that does not mean its not dangerous at times. Be aware of the Norwest wind as its can cause a strong drift to the south and beware of the dumping waves on the first bar especially at low tide.

At various times of the year the beach also gets a lot of beach debris such as logs and drift wood. This usually happens after a storm has flooded the Waimak river to the north and the rubbish then drifts down the beach. Lastly, at the height of summer look out for blue bottle jelly fish that can pack a nasty sting.

SOUTH BRIGHTON LIFEGUARDS

All Lifeguards at South Brighton beach on patrol are qualified lifeguards having passed their bronze medallion award, most have also chosen to do additional first aid and senior lifeguard courses which teaches the lifeguards more advanced skills for patrolling local beaches. Our Lifeguards also know the beach and surrounding areas very well, so are experts in knowing the local surf conditions. All lifeguards dedicate their own time in the weekends during summer to make the beach a much safer environment for you, your family and the general public.

 

PATROL HOURS

The South Brighton beach is patrolled from 1.00 pm to 5.00 pm on a Saturday and 11.00 am to 5.00 pm on a Sunday. Patrols for the 2022/2023 summer season commence again in November 2023 and run through until March 2024.

 

Swimming advice

With summer comes the hot weather and the time to swim at the beach. When swimming at any beach this summer, stay safe and be careful. Remember to:

  • Swim between the flags if possible. The life guards are there to ensure your safety.

  • Adults should always watch your children. It only takes a moment to drown.

  • Never swim or surf alone if your not confident in the ocean or are unsure about conditions.

  • Avoid flat spots in the surf. These usually indicate rips in the surf line or a hole.

  • Never swim when cold or tired. Being tired or cold makes you less able to recognize danger.

  • Be sun smart. Wear sunscreen, cover up and use sunglasses.

  • Look out for blue bottle jelly fish during the height of summer.

Current Beach Conditions:

Current beach conditions as sourced from LAWA are below: