PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

26 May 2026

KZN South Coast Gears Up for the Iconic Sardine Run Season

 

As the aloe flowers begin to bloom and the days grow colder, all signs point to the arrival of one of nature’s greatest ocean spectacles the annual Sardine Run along the KZN South Coast. Early sardine activity and sightings have already been reported along the Eastern Cape coastline near Mkambathi, as well as in the Port Edward area on the KZN South Coast, creating excitement among tourism operators, anglers, divers and holidaymakers.

 

The Sardine Run attracts a variety of marine life including dolphins, sharks, seabirds and whales, with increased whale activity already being spotted offshore. Visitors can look forward to unforgettable ocean experiences and front-row seats to this world-famous marine migration.

The KZN South Coast offers visitors far more than just the Sardine Run. Travellers are encouraged to explore the region’s renowned KZN South Coast Blue Flag Beaches, enjoy ocean adventures, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, whale watching, hiking trails, nature reserves, local culture and family-friendly attractions.

 

Chief Executive Officer of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise, Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, said the destination was ready to welcome visitors for the winter tourism season.

“The Sardine Run is one of the greatest natural attractions in the world and an important tourism highlight for the KZN South Coast. With early sightings already reported and whale activity increasing, we encourage visitors to book their holidays early and experience everything our beautiful coastline has to offer. From our Blue Flag Beaches to adventure activities, hospitality establishments and cultural experiences, the KZN South Coast remains a must-visit destination this winter,” said Dr Sibiya.

 

Visitors are encouraged to secure their accommodation bookings early and experience the magic of the Sardine Run season on the KZN South Coast.

 

#SardineRun#KZNSouthCoast#SardineSeason#GreatShoal#OceanAdventure#

WinterOnTheCoast#ShoalSeason

 

Keep updated on all on South Coast activities by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. Check out the latest

 

/ENDS

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About KZN South Coast

Known as the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom, the KZN South Coast stretches 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. Here, the spirit of adventure can be discovered among the many cultural experiences, as well as the 35 nature trails and 58 beaches, ideal for activities like river rafting, abseiling, suspension bridges, paintball, surfing, SUP, canoeing, beach horse rides, shark cage diving and free diving. Nicknamed ‘The Golf Coast’, there are 11 golf courses on the KZN South Coast ranging in difficulty, with endless hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails for more rugged excursions. Promoting sustainability, the KZN South Coast has a growing agri-tourism sector that offers world-class produce and hosts tours and excursions. The region boasts several permanently managed Blue Flag beaches and is home to some of the world’s top diving sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. The originality continues with the annual Sardine Run, coined the #GreatestShoalonEarth, which is the largest biomass migration on earth and a marvel to witness. The region’s many nature reserves are inhabited by indigenous birds and wildlife, and it holds the title of ‘smallest desert on earth’, The Red Desert in Port Edward. The KZN South Coast is a fast-emerging MICE destination which has played host to several high-profile events including The Bike Fest, The Conservation Symposium, The Ocean Festival, Uvukile Gospel Festival, Ugu Jazz, Ugu International Film Festival, and the South Coast Fever MTB & Trail Run Series, The Ugu Maskandi Festival, South Coast Marathon.

 

For more information please contact:
South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)
Cell: 039 682 7944
Email:  vanessa@sctie.co.za