Surfing and conservation merge in a fitting finale to this year’s Ballito Pro
This year’s Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill concluded on Saturday, 18 July, after two unforgettable weeks (4 to 18 July) of world-class surfing, music, football, skateboarding, conservation, and family entertainment in KwaDukuza. Concluding on Mandela Day, the Waves of Unity theme was fittingly represented at the Ballito Pro finals and the 67 Minutes for the Ocean Mandela Day beach clean-up.
“We’d like to extend a massive thanks to all the sponsors, competitors, and visitors who made this Ballito Pro another incredible success,” said Collette Bundy, Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser. “It always helps that the setting of KwaDukuza offers a world-class backdrop, with the warm winter weather some of the best anywhere. The Waves of Unity theme was carried through the football element, celebrating Bafana’s return to the FIFA World Cup, the surfing, and the community and conservation initiatives. It was fitting that we concluded this celebration of unity on Mandela Day.”
Looking Back at the World-Class Ballito Pro Surfing and Festival
Surfing:
The Ballito Pro hosted Stop No. 1 of the 2026 World Surf League Challenger Series in some of the best surf conditions seen in recent years. Portugal’s Teresa Bonvalot claimed the women’s title, becoming the first Portuguese woman to do so, defeating Francisca Veselko in an historic all-Portuguese final. American powerhouse Cole Houshmand secured victory over Brazil’s Weslley Dantas to reclaim the Ballito Pro title he first won in 2023.
Fusion of Sports:
A standout addition was the Surf & Turf Challenge, inspired by the FIFA World Cup. The unique relay-format paired football legends with professional surfers representing six nations in a fun event. Brazil took the first position, followed by South Africa and Morocco. The popular Behind Bafana Bafana Fan Zone also brought communities together, while Extreme Sports thrilled spectators with Red Bull BMX demonstrations, bike displays and high-energy activations.
Soccer Development:
The festival also celebrated the culmination of the KwaDukuza Behind Bafana Bafana U15 Soccer Development Programme, hosted with KwaDukuza Municipality. Following qualifying tournaments in June, the top youth teams competed in the finals, with Shakashead FC beating Shayamoya FC, and Etete FC taking third spot. Individual awards were presented to Sanele Xulu (Goalkeeper of the Tournament), Andile Mngadi (Player of the Tournament), Lindelani Madikizela (Top Goal Scorer), and Riccardo Moonsamy (Administrator Award).
Skateboarding:
Although wet weather forced a last-minute move from the Ballito Bowl to The Lot Skate Park at Ballito Junction Regional Mall, the O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam delivered another spectacular afternoon of action. Durban’s Tylor Houston claimed the Open Division title, while Australia’s Jake Turnbull won the U16 Groms division. Special award winners included Brandon Valjalo (Best Trick), Jake Turnbull (Grom Best Trick), and Jordan Gardner (Best Up-and-Coming Skater).
Music:
One festival’s biggest attractions was music, with fans flocking to the free Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona at Salt Rock Main Beach. Thursday night delivered an unforgettable Afro-house celebration featuring Mörda, DJ Merlon, Blanco Nero, Asvnte and Jay Sbu. Friday shifted gears with an energetic rock and pop showcase starring Booshle G, The Saxby Twins, Veranda Panda, Zebra, Phil Taylor Band, Matt Gardiner and Bloodbrother. The entertainment continued throughout the fortnight with Corona Sunset Sessions and vibrant After Dark events hosted at Conchilla, La Montagne and Fiamma Grill.
Shopping and Entertainment:
The bustling Retail Village featured food vendors, local artisans, exhibitions, lifestyle brands and beach bars, while visitors also enjoyed Beach Activations such as beach volleyball, beach rugby, beach soccer, Tatami Beach Judo, yoga and Pilates, Jive with Jen children’s entertainment, the Ballito Arts Showcase, and Tourism Experiences showcasing the KwaDukuza and iLembe region.
Community Initiatives:
Community highlights included the iLembe Surf Development Fundraiser, Small Steps beach activations supporting surf transformation, Youth Month programmes hosted alongside KwaDukuza Municipality, and the new SeaHer Women’s Surf Activation, empowering women through surfing, wellness and mentorship.
Conservation Initiatives:
Ocean conservation once again played a defining role throughout the festival. Daily Litter4Tokens recycling activations encouraged responsible waste disposal while educating visitors about marine pollution. WESSA’s Blue Flag and Green Coast campaigns introduced the new Stop the Strangle initiative, highlighting the devastating impact of discarded fishing gear on marine life. The conservation programme concluded with the special 67 Minutes for the Ocean Mandela Day beach clean-up.
Through its longstanding partnership between KwaDukuza Municipality, the World Surf League, Surfing South Africa, O’Neill and numerous public and private partners, the Ballito Pro continues to strengthen its reputation as one of South Africa’s premier sporting and lifestyle festivals while delivering lasting economic, environmental and social benefits for the region.
