The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill is set to return to Willard Beach in KwaDukuza from July 4 to 18, 2026, bringing a vibrant coastal festival that blends surfing, sport, music, and community activities to South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal North Coast.
Now in its 57th year, the event runs under the theme Wave of Unity and will coincide with major global sporting moments, including the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the 50th anniversary of the World Surf League World Tour.
Festival organiser Collette Bundy says this year’s edition will feature one of the strongest programmes yet, designed to appeal to all ages and interests. A major highlight is the introduction of the SeaHer Women’s Surf Activation, a three-day programme focused on empowering women through surfing, wellness, and ocean confidence-building experiences.
Sport will remain at the heart of the festival, with events including the Surf & Turf Pros Tag Team challenge on July 16, which will bring together surfing, soccer, and rugby personalities. Youth soccer development finals will also take place, alongside FIFA World Cup fan zones screening key matches including Bafana Bafana fixtures, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final.
The programme will also feature skateboarding competitions presented by O’Neill and Red Bull, BMX showcases, bike displays, and aerial entertainment. Community-focused initiatives such as the Litter4Tokens recycling programme, environmental awareness campaigns led by WESSA, and Youth Month activations will also form part of the festival.
Music lovers can expect free concerts on July 16 and 17 featuring amapiano, Afro-tech, EDM, rock, and pop performances, alongside DJ battles and sunset sets. Additional activities include beach volleyball, yoga, Pilates, judo, touch rugby, and family entertainment zones.
Tourism activation across the KwaDukuza and iLembe region will also be promoted, highlighting the area’s coastal attractions and cultural experiences.
The Ballito Pro continues as a collaboration between KwaDukuza Municipality, the World Surf League, Surfing South Africa, and various public and private partners aimed at driving tourism, youth development, and sustainable coastal engagement.
