Hibiscus Coast Calendar
The winter school holidays and annual KZN Sardine Run season are set to bring excitement and increased visitor activity to the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, with a packed calendar of events taking place across the region. From music festivals and sporting events to family entertainment, outdoor adventures and lifestyle experiences, the destination is preparing to welcome both local and international visitors during one of its busiest tourism periods.
The South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) have encouraged travellers to take advantage of the diverse experiences on offer while enjoying the region’s beaches, nature, hospitality and ocean activities linked to the Sardine Run phenomenon.
KZN South Coast events
South Coast Children’s Festival
Where: Blue Marlin Hotel
Date: 6 June 2026
Contact: Brighton – 083 743 3435
Hosted by Stacey Norman, J Sbu from the East Coast Radio Drive Show and Baryn Hulley, the festival promises a fun-filled day featuring free games, activities, mini soccer, movie theatre experiences, fashion shows, Fun X Kids games and cartoon characters.
Umzumbe Maskandi Festival
Where: Esibanini Sports Ground
Date: 16 June 2026
Contact: Eve – 074 281 3794
Description: Get ready for an unforgettable cultural celebration filled with traditional Maskandi music, entertainment and community spirit.
Umzumbe Maskandi Festival – Khulekani Shongwe
Ugu Jazz Festival
Where: Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre
Date: 25 June 2026 – Off Ramp Gala Dinner and Comedy Evening
Date: 26 June 2026 – Worship Evening
Date: 27 June 2026 – Ugu Jazz Festival
Contact: TK – 062 611 6949
The Ugu Jazz Festival is a vibrant celebration of music, culture and entertainment on the KZN South Coast. The programme includes a glamorous Gala Dinner and Comedy Evening, an uplifting Worship Evening and the main Jazz Festival featuring top local and national artists, creating an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors alike.
Tuna Bonanza
Where: Shelly Beach Ski Boat Club
Date: 4 – 5 July 2026
Contact: Lindy – 082 555 6666
Taking place during the annual Sardine Run and winter school holidays, the Tuna Bonanza highlights the South Coast’s reputation as one of South Africa’s top angling destinations, with excellent tuna and gamefish fishing opportunities
Run 4 Ramsgate
Where: Ramsgate Tidal Pool
Date: 11 July 2026
Contact: Sarah – 083 331 3866
A relaxed, family-friendly 5km fun run along the scenic Ramsgate Ramble. The event starts and finishes at Ramsgate Tidal Pool, with the halfway mark at Big Tree Beach. Start time is 9:30am and entry fee is R50.
Lake Eland MTB Race
Where: Lake Eland Game Reserve
Date: 11 – 12 July 2026
Contact: Anesh – 074 619 2311
The Lake Eland Extreme 80km Cycle Challenge offers an exciting race format, featuring 20km laps raced every two hours, with prizes awarded for each lap and grand prizes for the overall 80km winners.
Wine Tasting Day
Where: Clearwater Farm Venue, Port Edward
Date: 31 July 2026
Contact: Grace – 083 231 7494
Guests can enjoy sunset views over the beautiful Umtamvuna Gorge while sampling wines from renowned estates including Vrede en Lust, Spier, Bosman, Bon Courage, Stellenzicht, Glen Carlou and Leeuwenkuil.
In a nutshell
Hibiscus Coast Calendar
KZN South Coast events – The Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom
Browse SCTIE’s full holiday events calendar at www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za
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KZN South Coast website