The results of the uMhlanga Rocks UIP Annual Perception Survey (February/March 2026) reflect a precinct that continues to perform strongly, with measurable improvements across key indicators including overall experience, business confidence, safety and cleanliness.
Based on feedback from 278 respondents, the latest results show a clear upward trajectory in how uMhlanga Rocks is experienced by residents, visitors and businesses alike.
A stronger overall experience
The average overall experience rating increased to 8.84 out of 10 in 2026, up from 7.94 in 2025 and 7.55 in 2024. This steady improvement is further reflected in recommendation levels, with 92% of respondents indicating that they would recommend uMhlanga Rocks to others, compared with 87% in 2025 and 81% in 2024.
Growing business confidence
Business sentiment continues to strengthen within the precinct. The average business confidence rating increased to 7.88 out of 10 in 2026, up from 7.78 in 2025 and 7.23 in 2024, reflecting a stable and resilient environment for commercial activity.
Safety remains a key strength
Perceptions of safety remain one of uMhlanga Rocks’ strongest attributes. In 2026, 95% of respondents reported feeling safe or reasonably safe during the day, while 91% reported the same at night.
This reflects a notable improvement in night-time perceptions compared with 83% in 2025 and 88% in 2024. In addition, 83% of respondents indicated that they engage with the precinct during both the day and evening, up from 74% in 2025.
Clean, well-managed public spaces
Cleanliness continues to underpin the appeal of uMhlanga Rocks. In 2026, 89% of respondents rated the cleanliness of open spaces as either great or exceeding expectations, up from 85% in 2025.
The cleanliness of the beaches and promenade also shows strong improvement, with 85% of respondents rating these areas as great or exceeding expectations, compared with 70% in 2025 and 70.6% in 2024.
What continues to define uMhlanga Rocks?
Respondents continue to associate uMhlanga Rocks with:
- Cleanliness
- The promenade
- Safety
- The beaches
Leisure remains the primary reason for visiting, with 72% of visitors indicating that they are likely to consider moving to uMhlanga Rocks in the next 10 years.
Areas of focus
The survey also highlights areas that continue to influence public perception. In 2026, respondents identified the following as as key concerns:
- Noise pollution
- Limited public parking
- Traffic speed enforcement
These insights remain important in guiding operational priorities and ongoing engagement with municipal stakeholders.
A clear upward trajectory
The 2026 results reflect a precinct that is not only maintaining its standards but improving across key measures year-on-year. Stronger experience ratings, higher levels of recommendation, improved business confidence and consistent safety performance reinforce uMhlanga Rocks’ position as a sought-after coastal destination.
