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 Presented by O’Neill returns to Willard Beach in KwaDukuza from July 4 to 18, bringing a packed programme of sport, music, culture and community activities to the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast.
Held under the theme Wave of Unity, the festival marks its 57th year and coincides with two major global sporting milestones, the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the 50th anniversary of the World Surf League World Tour.
Festival organiser Collette Bundy said this year's event promises one of the strongest line-ups yet, with activities catering for all ages and interests.
Among the new additions is the SeaHer Women's Surf Activation, a three-day programme focused on empowering women through surfing, wellness and ocean confidence. The initiative will offer participants opportunities to develop surf skills, mindset techniques and meaningful connections through shared experiences in and around the ocean.
