The incredible coastline, family-friendly activities, and incredible meals and retail options have made Ballito one of the country's top holiday destinations. The great climate also means that even in the winter months, Barito continues to attract holiday makers as he has so many plans for June and July.
“The Quadukza region is the ultimate coastal and cultural tourism experience for both national and international visitors,” explained Colette Bundy, Barrito Professional festival organizer, presented by O'Neill. “The annual Ballito Pro is one of the main draw cards for winter visitors, but we share all the great facilities, activities and sites that make this your ultimate destination!”
1. Ballito Pro presented by O'Neill
Visit www.theballitopro.com or Ballito Pro on social media
This epic international surfing event and two-week festival will be held from June 22nd to July 6th, and promises something to the whole family. Celebrating its 56th year, the event moved to Kwadukuza in 2009 and has been growing ever since. In addition to surfing, the Ballito Pro Festival includes skating contests, environmental and community activities, retail joys and daily beach activities.
There are also some amazing musical components in the form of DJ fights after the Dark Party, Corona Sunset Beach Bar Session and the free Barito Pro Music Concert announced by Corona. This year, the program will include coastal and cultural tourism experiences in line with the #lovenorthcoast movement, promoting, exhibiting and growing the region to benefit everyone who lives, works and invests in Ballito.
2. Sugar Rush Park
Please visit www.sugarrush.co.za
Just 10 minutes from Ballito, Sugar Rush Park is a paradise for thrill seekers with putt putt, laser tag, reptile park, aerial obstacle courses and scenic running and cycling trails. Set inland farmland, Sugar Rush is a great outdoors place to find adventure, fun or tranquil.
3. Ballito Microlight Flight
Please visit www.ballitomicrolight.co.za
Next to Sugar Rush Park, Ballito Microlights offers scenic flights along the dolphin, from Ballito Coastline to Prince's Grant. Soar above the coastline and enjoy panoramic views of the lush and sparkling oceans.
4. Hidden forest wildlife sanctuary
Please visit www.hiddenforest.co.za
For animal-loving families, this sanctuary offers educational tours featuring rare, exotic primates. Just a 20-minute drive from Ballito, Hidden Forest is an eternal home for a variety of wildlife species. Their mission is to educate and nurture a deeper understanding of wildlife and the threats they face.
5. Rain Farm Game Lodge & Spa
Please visit www.rainfarm.co.za
Rain Farm Game Lodge & Spa is the only game farm on the KZN North Coast. A quiet bush escape just 25 minutes from Barito. Choose from luxurious treetop suites to the dam view lodges and enjoy activities ranging from game drives and nature walks to spa treatments and picnics on the dam side. Exclusive adventure hubs for overnight guests include paintball, archery and rock climbing.
6. Farm fun on flag animal farm
Please visit www.flaganimalfarm.co.za
Located in Sheffield, just 10 minutes from Barito, Flag Animal Farm is home to over 1,000 animals. Most of them are being rescued. This interactive wonderland allows families to connect with nature: pets, ride ponys, or feed goats. It's all part of the experience. Highlights include the indoor playzone, outdoor jungle gym, mini dinosaur park, unicorn play section, and splash water park (weekends and holidays). Enjoy tractor and pony rides, daily education shows, and animal encounters.
7. The joy of eating
Ballito is a dining wonderland with restaurants that cater to all tastes and interests, many of which have stunning ocean views. Check out some of the top restaurants to try while visiting Ballito Pro this winter.
– Jimbo's Burger Bar from Ballito Village: Return to the 80s with retro arcade games, classic rock and cheesy burgers, creating a fun, nostalgic atmosphere.
– Concha Café & Bakery at Ballito Village: This is a traditional Portuguese-style cafe and community hub. It's the perfect place to relax, refuel, or start your day with a post-run snack. Pets are welcome!
– Conchilla Tapas Lounge and Bar in Ballito Village: Enjoy cleverly crafted cocktails, delicious shared dishes and scenic views of Ballito's only tapas lounge and bar Salmon Bay.
– Fiamma Grill Beach Road in Compensation: Located within the stylish Coco de Mar boutique hotel, Fiamma Grill offers the highest level of service, serving everything from wooden pizza and fresh pasta to premium seafood and steaks.
– MiAçaí at Salt Rock Centre: This combines healthy life with the cool and relaxed spirit of an iconic beach town. Premium surfboards, smoothies, sunshine!
8. Blue Flag Beach
The beach is a major attraction for visitors to Ballito, with two beaches forming part of the Wessa Blue Flag Beach programme, and two beaches with pilot status.
9. Important cultural heritage
Kwadukuza accepts its important heritage, including the heritage of King Shaka and African Nobel Prize winner Chief Albert Rutoli. Take your time to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful coastal destination.
10. A warm community
The winter warmth in Ballito coincides with the warmth of the community that calls this place home! In collaboration with the Kwadukuza Municipality, the Ballito Urban Improvement District (UIP) is increasing safety and revitalizing public spaces. Ballito Pro also presents local talent and sustainable initiatives supported by Kwadukuza Municipality, Litter4Tokens, Dolphin Coast Waste Management and The UIP.
Barito is the place to be this winter! Don't miss out on the action at the 2025 Ballito Pro, announced by the O'Neill Festival, which will be held from June 22nd to June 6th, 2025.
2025 Ballito Pro Festival Lineup
The Ballito Pro Music Concert DJS Competition Music & Instrument Program Battle Dark Program and Party ILEMBE SURF DEVELOPMENT FUNDRAISER BEATERAL ENTERATENAL & RETALIONAL ENTERINALT & RETALIONAL BALLITO PRO Environmental Campaign Workshop & Training Course
Don't miss out on the action announced by O'Neill Festival in the 2025 Ballito Pro! #seasoundwaves #ulwandle umsindo amagagasi
Watch Live: The Challenger series will air live on worldsurfleague.com, the free WSL app, and WSL's YouTube channel. Also, check out more about how you can watch from WSL's broadcast partners.
Find out more about Ballito Pro, announced by the O'Neill Festival program.
Website: www.theballitopro.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/theballitopro
Instagram: www.instagram.com/theballitopro
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro
Snapchat: Username – TheBallitopro
For industry-related news, click here.
