On World Tourism Day, locals rolled up their sleeves to clean, plant, and transform their beachfront into a place everyone can be proud of.
Gordon’s Bay, South Africa (29 September 2025) – The month of September shines a spotlight on tourism. This year, the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation” could not have come to life in a better way. The Gordons Bay community rolled up their sleeves to prove that looking after their spaces is the heart of sustainable tourism.
Locals of all ages came together to give the Gordons Bay beachfront a facelift, showing that caring for shared spaces is just as important as welcoming visitors. Together, residents and businesses cleaned, prepped, and replanted 66 planters along the main beach parking with vibrant indigenous flowers. This resulted in a beautiful beachfront that feels more inviting, sustainable, and full of life.
From families with little ones to local businesses, beachgoers, and city officials, everyone pitched in. One participant summed it up perfectly.
“It was pure joy to be part of this project.”
The initiative highlights small community efforts add up to big transformations. While World Tourism Day reminds us of the role tourism plays in our economy, this event reminded Gordons Bay that true hospitality starts at home.
With the help of various sponsors, plants and other resources were brought together to make this a success. Don’t forget the energy brought by the community. With the added support of the City of Cape Town and Sean Stacey who assisted with rubble removal the day was both practical and celebratory.
Be assured that this is not once off. The Gordons Bay community has committed to regular gardening days to keep their coastal gem looking beautiful. Beyond the flowers and clean pavements, the day also planted a renewed sense of local pride togetherness.
As Gordons Bay blossoms, it serves as a reminder that sustainable tourism is about communities taking ownership, showing love for their spaces, and creating environments where both locals and visitors feel welcome.
Sources: Gordon’s Bay Tourism
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:
Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.
by 