The focus of countless natural documentaries and the sardine run, dubbed “the planet’s biggest biomass migration,” is a must-see ocean view that passes through the South KZN coast every year. Aloes blooming marks the beginning of the journey. This gives visitors the opportunity to watch millions of silver fish swimming near the coastline and enjoy the show from where they like, attracting predators from above and below!
“The sardine run is one of the biggest tourist draws on the KZN South Coast for good reason. It’s absolutely strange to see all age groups,” says Dr. Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Winter on the South Coast of KZN enjoying the subtropical climate all year round is incredible. For sardine running and other outdoor adventures.
The SARDINE RUN movement is being monitored by the KZN Sharks board with regular updates shared on the SCTIE social media platform. Wayne Harrison of the KZN Sharks Board of Directors said that while sardine operation is still ongoing, there is more sea activity, “In Port Alfred, there has been quite a lot of fish for feeding over the past two weeks. Sardine activity is still closely monitored the situation.”
The best way to experience sardine running
Sardines can be enjoyed in many ways along the South Coast of KZN! From those who want to get closer to action, to those who want to enjoy the comfort of the restaurant to the sights, there is a spot for every sardine visitor.
1. From the sea
The KZN South Coast is famous for its fishing hotspots, while the KZN South Coast is a unique opportunity for anglers to check out this bucket list item. Charter boats take visitors on day trips in the heart of action.
2. At the sea
With two world-class dive sites in Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks, both of which are Marine Reserves (MPAs), divers come from all over the world to experience the warm waters off the southern coast of KZN. As the ocean explodes with marine activity while the sardines are driving, the sightings get even better! Visitors can book tours to go scuba diving, free diving, snorkeling or shark cage diving on the KZN South Coast.
3. From the coast
Sardine orchids bring action very close to the coast. This means that visitors can enjoy the view very safely from the coast itself! The KZN South Coast has 58 Golden Beaches. This includes the most common Blue Flag Beaches in the state. Therefore, there is no shortage of beaches to relax and enjoy the view.
4. From the deck
With whales moving and frolicking dolphins commonly occurring from the South Coast of KZN, there are many viewing decks that sit and incorporate the beauty of the Indian Ocean. During the sardine run, visitors can head to one of the many whale viewing decks and check out the sardine execution action in all glory. Site views include:
・Umtentweni Conservancy Whale Deck
・Ramsgate Whale Deck
・Impity Beach Kiosk
・Umdoni Golf Club Whale Deck
5. From the sky
There’s nothing like the aerial view of the KZN South Coast, especially when sardines come out. Visitors can book their trips with microlights, helicopters or light aircraft flights to get a bird’s eye view of the huge shallows below and predator action.
6. Through the lens
Nature photographers don’t want to miss the opportunity to capture some of the most breathtaking underwater and seaside shots of the epic sardine run. For good reason, attracting world-renowned documentary makers, Sardine Run offers photographers the opportunity to shoot award-winning shots of bait balls, violations and diving gannets.
7. From a local restaurant
There is a variety of award-winning restaurants, beachside cafes and fantastic bars from which visitors can dine, drink and run sardines. Those who like sardines can find chefs who prepare authentic local dishes that incorporate this delicious seafood ingredient.
Sardine fever is here and now is the time to come!
The sardines’ running is a star attraction, but the area offers more.
・Blue Flag Beach and a world-class diving site
・Coastal nature reserves
– Hiking and cycling trails
・Extreme outdoor adventure
・Cultural experience and local markets
・Sardine running and holiday events
Early booking is essential due to limited availability of charters and accommodations! Visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za to find venues, tour packages, sardine performance information and more.
Follow South Coast Tourism on Facebook to keep you up to date with sardine action. A YouTube South Coast Tourism and Investment Company. @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; South Coast tourism and investment company on LinkedIn. Click here to check out our previous SCTIE press releases. Find out why the KZN South Coast is a top tourist destination here.
Now is the time: visit, invest, thrive on the KZN South Coast! Follow the hashtag #nowistthetime #nowistthetimetovisit
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