Author: AdminBallitoPro

The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill is turning up the volume this winter with an epic music programme set to unite festivalgoers on the KZN North Coast from 4 to 18 July 2026. Music remains one of the defining elements of this longest-running professional surf contest, complementing world-class surfing with free beachfront concerts, sunset sessions, DJ showcases, and after-dark entertainment.

The headline music attraction is the two-day Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona on 16 and 17 July. This free-to-attend concert at Salt Rock Main Beach brings some of South Africa’s biggest music talents to the oceanfront stage.

“Music has always been at the heart of the Ballito Pro experience,” said Collette Bundy, Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser. “The incredible atmosphere and unforgettable performances keep people coming back year after year. This year’s programme perfectly captures our Wave of Unity theme, bringing together diverse artists, music genres, and audiences in one incredible beachfront setting. Combined with the mild winter weather and spectacular coastline, we’re expecting a really impressive festival atmosphere.”

Night 1: Afro-House

The opening concert is on Thursday, 16 July concert runs from 4.30pm to 10.30pm, bringing an energetic celebration of Afro-house and electronic music.

Leading the line-up is Mörda (Murdah Bongz), one of South Africa’s most celebrated producers and DJs, renowned for hit tracks including Uxolo, Takala, and Summer Love. He will be joined by crowd favourite DJ Merlon, whose chart-topping tracks Koza Kuse, Thembalami, and Bro Codehave made him one of the country’s leading house music artists.

Also taking to the stage are Durban-based performer Blanco Nero, rising star Asvnte, and popular East Coast Radio personality and DJ Jay Sbu. Completing the line-up will be the winner of the annual Battle of the DJs Competition, providing an aspiring local artist with the opportunity to perform before thousands of festivalgoers.

Night 2: Rock and Pop

Friday, 17 July shifts the focus to rock and pop, featuring crowd-pleasing festival favourites from 4pm to 11.30pm. Leading the line-up is returning Ballito favourite Booshle G, whose folk-inspired storytelling and engaging stage presence have earned him a devoted following across South Africa.

Joining him are social media sensations The Saxby Twins, whose infectious energy and feel-good pop sound have made them one of the country’s most exciting young acts.

KwaZulu-Natal favourites Veranda Panda will bring their trademark creativity and live performance energy to the beachfront stage, while Zebra, Phil Taylor Band, Matt Gardiner, and Bloodbrother complete a diverse line-up that promises something for every music fan.

A Full Music Programme at Ballito Pro

Beyond the headline concerts, music lovers can enjoy a packed entertainment schedule throughout the Ballito Pro. Highlights include:

• Corona Sunset Sessions (5, 10, 12, 15 and 18 July at Willard Beach) featuring live DJs and sunset performances overlooking the Indian Ocean.
• Battle of the DJs Competition (10 July at KwaDukuza Town Hall), showcasing emerging local talent competing for a coveted festival performance slot.
• After Dark Entertainment Experiences hosted at Conchilla, La Montagne and Fiamma Grill.

Beyond the Music Festival…

While the concerts are a major attraction, visitors can also look forward to a packed programme of sporting, cultural, environmental, and family-friendly activities. Festival highlights include:

• Beach entertainment, volleyball, soccer activations, and family fun zones
• Beach judo tournament and beach rugby touch tournament.
• Retail village, food vendors, and lifestyle experiences
• iLembe Surf Development fundraiser and Small Steps fundraiser activations
• SeaHer Beach activation for women
• Surf & Turf celebrity tag team challenge
• FIFA World Cup fan screenings and activations
• Ballito Skate Competition presented by O’Neill and Red Bull
• BMX and extreme sports displays
• Litter4Tokens and WESSA conservation activations and beach clean-ups
• Coastal and cultural tourism experiences showcasing KwaDukuza and the iLembe region

Keep Updated on All the Action

Don’t miss any of the action at the 2026 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival! #waveofunity #igagazi lobumbano/Lobunye

The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill returns to Willard Beach in KwaDukuza from 4 to 18 July 2026 under the theme Wave of Unity, celebrating its 57th year with an epic coastal lifestyle festival. Hosted along the KZN North Coast, the internationally recognised event will bring world-class sport, music, culture, and seaside experiences to one of South Africa’s most iconic coastal destinations.

The 2026 edition arrives during a landmark year for global sport, coinciding with the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the 50th anniversary of the World Surf League World Tour, adding a layer of unifying energy to this year’s festival programme.

“The Ballito Pro is the ultimate place to be this winter, with the inviting KZN North Coast weather and an absolutely epic programme planned for all ages and interests,” said Collette Bundy, Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser.

“Each year, the event brings an incredible energy to KwaDukuza, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of our most exciting programmes yet. We’re delighted to channel support for Bafana Bafana at the FIFA World Cup through our fan zones, and the epic Surf & Turf Pros Tag Team – alongside our many popular festival programme favourites. This is definitely one festival you’re not going to want to miss!”

One of the additions to the 2026 programme is the SeaHer Women’s Surf Activation, a three-day programme that empowers women through surfing and wellness. Female surfers of all abilities will get together to learn practical ocean confidence, mindset, breathwork, and surf skills, while creating meaningful connections through shared experiences in and around the ocean.

Sporting Events

• Youth Soccer Games (U15) and Development Playoffs: Finals at the Ballito Pro Event (16th July)
• Surf & Turf Pros Tag Team: Surfers, soccer and rugby personalities collide in a mixed sport challenge (16 July at Willard Beach)
• Behind Bafana Bafana: KwaDukuza FIFA World Cup screenings of Bafana Bafana matches, quarter-finals, semi-finals and final (4 to 18 July at KwaDukuza Fan Zone)
• Ballito Skate Comp Presented by O’Neill & Red Bull: Top national skaters and local groms compete (11 July at the Ballito Bowl)
• Extreme Sports: Red Bull BMX Activations, Bike Displays and Air Show Elements (16 to18 July at Willard Beach precinct)
  
  

Conservand Community Initiativesation 

• Litter4Tokens Recycling and Ocean Waste Activation: Waste sorting, education and recycling-for-tokens model (4 to 18 July at Willard Beach Lifesaving Hut & Activation Zones)
• WESSA Blue Flag & Green Coast Environmental Awareness Campaigns: Includes ‘Stop the Strangle’ marine protection focus (Willard Beach and surrounds)
• iLembe Surf Development Fundraiser: Supporting local surf development programmes (14 July at Coco De Mer Boutique Hotel)
• Small Steps Fundraiser Activations: Linc College Beach Activation, which supports local surf transformation programmes and will include games, prizes, and giveaways (4-18 July, Willard Beach)
• Youth Month Community Activations: Held in partnership with KwaDukuza Municipality (11 to 18 July at KwaDukuza venues)
• SeaHer Beach Activation: Empowering women through movement, mindset, community and shared experiences. Space for surfers to learn, connect, and progress together (15-17 July at Willard Beach)
• Coastal & Cultural Tourism Experiences: Love North Coast & UIP Activation showcasing the KwaDukuza and iLembe region (4 to 18 July, Willard Beach and at regional tourism routes and activations)

Music and Dancing

• Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona: Free music concerts including amaPiano and afro tech on day 1 and contemporary rock, pop and EDM on day 2 (16 and 17 July at Salt Rock Main Beach)
• Corona Sunset Sessions: Live DJ-led sunset sets at the beach retail precinct (5, 10, 12, 15 and 18 July at Willard Beach)
• Battle of the DJs Competition: Local showdown of DJ talents (KwaDukuza Town Hall on 10 July)
• After Dark Entertainment: Nightclub-style after-parties (Conchilla, La Montagne and Fiamma Grill)

Beach Fun and Retail Experiences

• Beach Recreational Entertainment Hub: Volleyball, soccer activations, fashion showcases, and family beach activities (4to 18 July at Willard Beach retail zone)
• Jive With Jen: Kiddies beach programme with children’s dance, games and interactive beach fun (Willard Beach)
• Beach Soccer: Activations and family sports zones (4 to 18 July at Willard Beach)
• Beach Judo Tournament: Presented by Tatami Judo Academy (18 July at Willard Beach)
• Beach Rugby Touch Tournament: Presented by Dolphin Coast Rugby (17 July at Willard Beach)
• Ballito Arts Showcase: Great representations of local artwork (11, 12, 17, 18 July at Willard Beach)
• Beach Early Morning Yoga & Pilates: Get fit and healthy on the beachfront! (4 to 18 July at Willard Beach)
• Retail Village: Food vendors, lifestyle brands, and coastal market experiences (4 to 18 July at Willard Beach retail precinct)

The festival forms part of a broader initiative between the KwaDukuza Municipality, World Surf League, Surfing South Africa, and key public and private partners, aimed at driving youth development, tourism growth, and sustainable coastal activation.

Keep Updated on All the Action

Don’t miss any of the action at the 2026 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival! #waveofunity #igagazi lobumbano/Lobunye  

Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:

• Website: www.theballitopro.com
• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro
• Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro

The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill returns to Willard Beach in KwaDukuza from 4 to 18 July 2026 under the theme Wave of Unity (#WaveOfUnity #IgagaziLobumbano #Lobunye). Celebrating its 57th year, the international surf and lifestyle festival once again brings world-class surfing, music, and beach culture to the KZN North Coast.

The longest-running professional surfing events in the world, the Ballito Pro will bring an unforgettable beach lifestyle experience to the KZN North Coast. The 2026 edition coincides with two major global sporting milestones: the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the World Surf League, celebrating 50 years of the World Tour, with this year’s programme drawing inspiration from both moments.

“This year’s Ballito Pro celebrates the powerful connection between surfing, music, youth culture, and the ocean,” said Collette Bundy, Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser. “The festival creates a unique space where people from all walks of life can come together on one of South Africa’s most iconic coastlines.”

Hosted for a 17th year in KwaDukuza – the ‘Jewel of the Zulu Kingdom’ – the Ballito Pro has evolved into one of South Africa’s most iconic sporting and lifestyle events. Through longstanding partnerships between the KwaDukuza Municipality, World Surf League (WSL), Surfing South Africa (SSA), and key stakeholders, the event continues to drive tourism growth, youth development, and economic impact across the iLembe region and beyond.

O’Neill Brand Director Paul Canning commented: “This enduring collaboration reflects our shared commitment to community and the vibrant spirit of South African surf culture. We’re especially stoked about this year’s powerful event theme.

“As the world unites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, The Ballito Pro rides that same wave of excitement. This unique overlap brings together the electric spirit of global football and the vibrant culture of South African surfing, creating a festival of sport, music, and national pride.

“In 2025, Luke Thompson captured the nation’s pride when he won the Ballito Pro and was carried from the surf wrapped in the South African flag. His victory symbolised more than personal triumph; it reflected the unity, strength, and rising spirit of South African surfing, and with Bafana Bafana qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the sense of national pride and celebration is even stronger.”

Tasha Mentasti, Regional Director of WSL Africa, says every great sporting event is remembered for its champions, but the truly special ones are remembered for the impact they leave behind: “The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill has become far more than a surfing competition; it is a celebration of sporting excellence, a catalyst for economic growth, and a platform that inspires people to dream bigger.

“Each year, this event brings together some of the world’s best surfers, passionate fans, local businesses and an entire community united by a shared belief in the power of sport. Through our enduring partnerships with KwaDukuza Municipality, O’Neill and Surfing South Africa, we have watched the Ballito Pro grow into one of the most influential surfing events in the world, creating opportunities that reach far beyond the shoreline.

“As we welcome the start of the 2026 season, we are proud to continue building a legacy that not only elevates the sport of surfing but also demonstrates how world-class sporting events can create meaningful social, economic and community impact. The Ballito Pro is where dreams begin, champions emerge, and lasting memories are made.”

Mayor of KwaDukuza Municipality, Cllr Siduduzo Gumede added: “The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill is a source of immense pride for KwaDukuza as the host and for the iLembe region. We extend our gratitude for our partnership with WSL and O’Neill as we commemorate the 17th anniversary within our shores as the major funder and licensee of the event.

“For 57 years, the Ballito Pro has stood as one of the iconic events that has placed the KZN North Coast on the global map, attracting thousands of visitors year on year to showcase our golden beaches, and creating meaningful opportunities for our local economy.

True to form, the 2026 theme ‘Waves of Unity’ resonates deeply as a celebration of world-class sport and as a symbol of what we can achieve as a community working together towards a shared purpose. As the nation unites behind Bafana Bafana on the global stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, KwaDukuza stands proud and excited to host another WSL Challenger Series, where we will be welcoming surfing teams and the international community to our shores.

“We look forward to an exciting action-packed sport and lifestyle event that celebrates music, culture, and the enduring spirit of our people.”

What Can You Expect from Ballito Pro 2026?

The Ballito Pro also marks Stop No. 1 of the 2026 WSL Challenger Series, the pathway to the elite Championship Tour, during a landmark season celebrating 50 years of crowning world champions. This year ushers in a new era for the WSL, with changes to the Championship Tour format that include an expanded women’s field, the removal of non-elimination rounds, and the return of the iconic Pipe Masters as the season-ending World Title decider.

Sports Highlights

• WSL Challenger Series Surfing featuring the world’s top emerging surfers competing for Championship Tour qualification
• Ballito Open QS2000 Event and WSL Junior competitions
• O’Neill SMTH Shapes Rookie Rippers showcasing South Africa’s next generation of surfing talent
• iLembe Development Surf Programme and youth surf initiatives
• Surf & Turf Celebrity Tag Team Event bringing together surfers, soccer stars, and rugby personalities
• Extreme sports showcases, including skateboarding, BMX, and Red Bull activations
• Youth Month and FIFA-themed community activations, including soccer tournaments and public match screenings

Entertainment and Sustainability Highlights

• Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona featuring leading South African artists
• Corona Sunset Sessions hosted throughout the festival at the beach retail site
• Battle of the DJs Competition and After Dark entertainment experiences
• Beach recreational entertainment, fashion showcases, volleyball, soccer, and family activities
• Environmental and ocean conservation campaigns led by Litter4Tokens and WESSA
• Coastal and cultural tourism experiences showcasing the KwaDukuza and iLembe region
• Environmental sustainability through beach clean-ups, recycling activations, and marine protection initiatives

Keep Updated on All the Action

Don’t miss any of the action at the 2026 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival! #waveofunity #igagazi lobumbano/Lobunye

Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:

Website: www.theballitopro.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro

Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro

Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro

Full Festival Programme Wraps Up

·       Beach Recreational Entertainment: Fun seaside beach sports and children’s activities kept the young ones busy at Willard Beach, including Jive with Jen, Kiko Life’s obstacle courses, tug-of-war, and interactive competitions.

·       Keeping Active:La Montagne Hotel & Resort hosted various fitness and dance events with the Starfit Fitness Festival. There were also Drumming Workshops, interactive Beach Pop-Up sessions, and even strongman competitions.

·       Retail Delight: Visitors were treated to a variety of delicious food and drinks, arts and crafts, quality goods, and live music performances daily at Willard Beach.

·       The Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona: Party-goers enjoyed 3 nights of music at Salt Rock Main Beach (2 to 4 July), starting with the Ballito Pro Infinite Playlist featuring members of legendary bands like Squeal, Perez, Just Jinger, Tree63, Arapaho, and more. Next up was the all-star DJ lineup, including DJ Mörda, DJ Merlon, DJ Sox, Blanco Nero, and the Battle of the DJs winner, concluding on the final night with headliner Matthew Mole, supported by The Saxby Twins, Booshle G, Matthew Gardiner, and DJ Kyle Cassim.

·       Pros vs Musos Clash: Challenger Series competitor Josh Kerr (Australia) took the win for the surfer pros in the clash, while former WSL Longboard World Champion and acclaimed singer/songwriter Steven Sawyer (J-Bay) claimed the win for the musos.

·       After Dark Programme: Daily fun included Corona Sunset Sessions at Willard Beach, After Dark Parties, and the epic Battle of the DJs.

·       O’Neill Ballito Bowl Skate Jam: Cape Town’s Thalente Biyela took first place in the Open category of this skating contest at the Ballito Bowl on 28 June, while Ballito’s own Ezra Vosloo earned the top spot in the Groms, while Joburg’s Brandon Valjalo took home the prize for the Best Trick category.

·       Red Bull’s Extreme Sports: The Red Bull Activations included Brian Capper Biking Displays, with South African legend Brandon Valjalo competing in the Skate Jam and showcasing his skills throughout the festival. Spectators also got to enjoy the Red Bull Jordy +27 Watch Party – an exclusive screening of a new surf film by the South African icon, Jordy Smith – on 3 July at Mozambik Ballito.

·       iLembe Surf Development Fundraiser: On 1 July, Fiamma at Coco Der Mer hosted this incredible community programme which raised funds to bring sport to underserved youth.

·       Environmental Campaign: This year’s expanded recycling and education campaign featured collaborations with Litter4Tokens, Dolphin Coast Waste Management (DCWM), Ballito UIP, KwaDukuza Municipality, Wild Oceans Trust, and WESSA Blue Flag and Green Coast.

·       Litter4Tokens Nurdles Competition & Recycling Project: Part of the Environmental Campaign was this innovative competition that encouraged visitors to sieve out harmful nurdles (microplastics) using Mermaid Tear Catchers for safe disposal.

·       Coastal & Cultural Tourism Experience: This programme event highlighted the rich tourism offerings of KwaDukuza, connecting visitors with the area’s history, heritage, and hidden gems. This aligns with the #LoveNorthCoast movement, supported by Ballito Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP) and KwaDukuza Municipality.

For more pictures and details from the 2025 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival, visit:

Website: www.theballitopro.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theballitopro/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro

Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro

YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro

Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro

#seasoundwaves

#ulwandle umsindo amagagasi

Catch The Challenger Series on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Find out more about the WSL’s broadcast partners.

The Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona delivered three unforgettable nights of music from 2 to 4 July, drawing thousands to Salt Rock Main Beach for this epic coastal celebration. Wednesday’s Ballito Pro Infinite Playlist set the tone with a nostalgic tribute to South African surf and music culture, featuring members of legendary bands like Squeal, Perez, Just Jinger, Tree63, Arapaho, and more. Thursday night kept the energy high with an all-star DJ lineup including DJ Mörda, DJ Merlon, DJ Sox, Blanco Nero, and the Battle of the DJs winner, delivering a powerful mix of Afro-tech, house, and gqom beats. Friday’s grand finale was headlined by Matthew Mole, supported by The Saxby Twins, Booshle G, Matthew Gardiner, and DJ Kyle Cassim, closing out the concert series. The fun doesn’t stop here as The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill festival programme continues until 6 July with Corona Sunset Sessions, Red Bull Activations, After Dark Programmes and Parties, Beach Recreational Entertainment & Retail, the Ballito Pro Environmental Campaign, and more! Don’t miss any of the action at the 2025 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival – visit www.theballitopro.com or follow The Ballito Pro on social media platforms.

The 56th edition of the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill continues to deliver an unforgettable winter experience, transforming KwaDukuza into the ultimate surf and lifestyle destination from 22 June to 6 July 2025. This year’s theme, Sea.Sound.Waves., celebrates the profound connection between surf culture and music – the two pillars at the heart of the festival.

Thursday brought a perfect mix of fierce competition and live music. A standout moment was the Surfers vs Musos fun heat, which played out in front of an enthusiastic crowd following the day’s official Challenger Series rounds. Competing for the surfers was Josh Kerr (Aus), a world-renowned athlete in the Men’s Challenger Series draw. Representing the musos was Steven Sawyer (JBay), a former WSL longboard world champion and celebrated singer-songwriter, riding an eye-catching asymmetrical twin fin. With smooth style and musical flair, Sawyer took the win for the musos in a heat that perfectly captured the spirit of the theme.

That evening, the Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona kept the festival energy high at Salt Rock Main Beach, with DJ Mörda, DJ Merlon, DJ Sox, and DJ Blanco Nero lighting up the stage.

The final night of free live music takes place tonight:

Friday, 4 July | 5.30pm – 11.30pm | Salt Rock Main Beach
Featuring: Matthew Mole, The Saxby Twins, Booshle G, Matthew Gardiner, and Kyle Cassim

With world-class surfing still underway, alongside beach activities, Red Bull activations, cultural showcases, and retail experiences, the Ballito Pro Festival Presented by O’Neill continues to offer a coastal experience that celebrates sport, sound, and sustainability in one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premier seaside destinations.