The stage is set for the return of the highly anticipated Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill, taking place from 22 June to 6 July 2025 on the sun-soaked shores of KwaDukuza, north of Durban on KwaZulu-Natal’s spectacular North Coast. Now in its 56th year, this internationally renowned surf and lifestyle festival continues to unite the worlds of sport and music under the 2025 theme: Sea • Sound • Waves.
Launched on Friday, 6 June surfers, supporters the media and organisers gathered at the Coco Der Mer Boutique Hotel for a media launch and Collette Bundy, festival organiser said the team is excited to welcome back the world’s longest-running professional surfing event to KwaDukuza – fondly known as the Jewel of the Zulu Kingdom. “This year’s theme, Sea • Sound • Waves, is inspired by the powerful energy of the ocean and the resonance of music – two integral elements of the Ballito Pro. These waves – both sea and sound – create a powerful connection between all who attend. Whether it’s world-class surfers riding perfect sets or gifted artists sending sound waves through the crowd, the festival is about meaningful connections that go beyond the moment.”
As a proud stop on the World Surf League’s Challenger Series, the 2025 Ballito Pro will feature top international and local surfers battling it out for qualification to the elite Championship Tour. This South African leg is one of just six global stops in the series, placing Ballito firmly on the world surfing map. Spectators from Durban, the greater KZN region, and abroad can look forward to thrilling surf action against the backdrop of the North Coast’s warm waters and winter sunshine.
Tasha Mentasti, Regional Director for WSL Africa, praised the event for its continued excellence and global relevance. “The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill is not only the longest-running professional surfing event on the African continent, but it’s also a powerful platform for emerging talent. The 2025 theme encapsulates the spirit of high-performance surfing alongside a vibrant cultural celebration. We are honoured to return to KwaDukuza and build on the legacy that fuses sport, music, and community.”
The Ballito Pro’s success is made possible through longstanding partnerships, particularly with O’Neill – the original surf brand – and the KwaDukuza Municipality. O’Neill Brand Director Paul Canning expressed excitement for this year’s event, emphasising the brand’s alignment with the festival’s energy. “This enduring collaboration underscores our shared commitment to community and the spirit of South African surf culture. This year’s theme, Sea • Sound • Waves, captures a story of rhythm, freedom, and connection – everything O’Neill stands for. The 2025 edition promises to be a spectacular celebration of global surf and local soul.”
KwaDukuza Mayor, Councillor Muzi Ali Ngidi, extended a warm welcome to visitors from across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. “This event has become more than a sporting fixture – it’s a celebration of our coastal identity and a catalyst for tourism, investment, and local pride. Each year, our town transforms into a vibrant stage for sport, culture, music, and economic opportunity. The 56th Ballito Pro is set to be the most exciting yet, offering visitors a full experience of KwaDukuza’s hospitality, creativity, and rich heritage.”
The 2025 Ballito Pro festival programme includes the Ballito Pro Music Concerts presented by Corona, the Corona Sunset Sessions, the Battle of the DJs competition, the Music & Instrument Programme, a series of After Dark parties, the iLembe Surf Development Fundraiser, beachfront recreational activities and retail experiences, environmental awareness campaigns, local workshops and training courses, and immersive coastal and cultural tourism experiences.
With its unique mix of surf, sound, and vibrant local flavour, the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill remains one of South Africa’s most anticipated winter festivals. Whether you’re coming from Durban or flying in from abroad, don’t miss the 56th edition of this iconic celebration. From 22 June to 6 July, all roads lead to KwaDukuza.
