July 4 – July 18
The countdown to one of South Africa’s biggest winter events has officially begun as the 2026 Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill prepares to take over Willard Beach from 4 to 18 July. Celebrating 57 unforgettable years, the iconic event continues to hold its place as the world’s longest-running professional surf competition and Africa’s biggest beach festival.
This year’s theme, “Wave of Unity,” promises more than just elite surfing action. The Ballito Pro is once again set to unite athletes, music lovers, families, and beachgoers for two weeks of high-energy entertainment along KwaZulu-Natal’s stunning North Coast.
From rising stars chasing their breakthrough moments to internationally recognised surfers competing for valuable ranking points, the 2026 edition is expected to deliver nonstop action both in and out of the water.
The surf programme officially kicks off with the O’Neill SMTH Shapes Rookie Rippers from 4 to 6 July. South Africa’s brightest young surfing talents across the U12 to U18 divisions will hit the waves at Willard Beach, eager to showcase their skills and announce themselves as the future of the sport.
The next generation of surfers will continue to command attention during the O’Neill SMTH Shapes Ballito Pro Junior from 7 to 8 July. Competing in the WSL Junior Qualifying Series for both men and women, these young athletes will battle for valuable points, prize money, and recognition on one of the country’s most prestigious stages.
Attention then shifts to the Ballito Open presented by O’Neill from 9 to 11 July. The WSL QS2000 event will see experienced competitors and emerging stars go head-to-head in both the men’s and women’s divisions as they chase critical rankings and prize money in front of packed beach crowds.
The festival reaches its peak from 12 to 18 July with the highly anticipated Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill, part of the World Surf League Challenger Series. Some of the best surfers in the world are expected to descend on Willard Beach, bringing elite-level competition and electrifying performances to South African shores.
Beyond the surf, organisers are once again transforming Ballito into a full-scale lifestyle and entertainment destination. Fans can look forward to two free live music concerts at Salt Rock Main Beach on 16 and 17 July, adding an unforgettable soundtrack to the festival atmosphere.
The entertainment lineup also includes a skate competition at Ballito Bowl, BMX competitions and displays, beach soccer, volleyball tournaments, kiddies’ programmes, and the popular Corona Sunset Sessions on the beach. Festivalgoers will also have access to food stalls, retail experiences, local crafters, and a vibrant social atmosphere throughout the event.
With two weeks of world-class surfing, beach culture, live entertainment, and community spirit, the Ballito Pro 2026 is shaping up to be another landmark celebration on South Africa’s sporting and lifestyle calendar.
From future stars to seasoned professionals, from sunrise surf sessions to sunset concerts, the Ballito Pro’s “Wave of Unity” is ready to deliver unforgettable memories on the shores of Ballito this July.
