Epic Programme Line-up Announced for Ocean Festival 2025 in Scottburgh

In celebration of World Ocean Day, the 2025 Ocean Festival has planned an incredible line-up of ocean-based events from 5 to 8 June at Scottburgh. The 3rd edition of this now-globally celebrated ocean event has pivoted to accommodate the arrival of the incredible Sardine Run, as no bathing will be allowed, but organisers have lots of great activities planned!

“We’re excited to announce another great festival programme which will bring together ocean conservationists, athletes, active citizens, and visitors looking to experience the beautiful Scottburgh in winter,” says Barry Lewin, Event Organiser.

“The arrival of the sardines is just another example of why we need to create awareness about protecting our ocean and all that reside in it. This is also a great opportunity for visitors to Ocean Festival to catch a sighting of this world-renowned migratory event!”

Lewin said they were also fortunate to be celebrating Ocean Festival globally, with Malaysian counterparts hosting Ocean Festival events throughout the weekend as well.

Ocean Festival 2025 Programme of Events

Ocean Festival aims to engage with communities, educate about the importance of conservation, inspire people to take action to protect the world’s oceans, and stimulate economic tourism for coastal communities through a full programme of events.

FRIDAY, 6 JUNE 2025

Ocean Research & Conservation Presentations

Time: 10am to 11.30am

Venue: Widenham Retirement Village

Details: Marine biologists will share insights into the latest ocean research, what is being done to preserve ocean life, and how citizens can help.

Ocean Festival Film Screening

Time: 6.30pm to 8pm

Venue: Premier Hotel Cutty Sark, Scottburgh

Details: Every year, the Ocean Festival hosts a moving film screening that showcases local film talent while shining a light on threats to ocean health.

SATURDAY, 7 JUNE 2025

Scotties Striders 5km Ocean Run

Time: 6.30am to 7.30am

Venue: Scottburgh Main Beach

Details: Everyone is welcome to join the 5km morning run on the seaside – the perfect way to start a day of ocean celebration.

Beach Yoga with Lauren Lewin

Time: 8am to 9am

Venue: Scottburgh Main Beach

Details: Local yoga instructor, Lauren Lewin, will get World the day off to a mindful start with a beachside yoga session.

Aliwal Shoal Scuba Diving Reef Clean

Time: 8am to 10.30am

Venue: Aliwal Shoal, Scottburgh

Details: Divers can join the team from Scubaco Diving and other local diving operators for a celebratory scuba or freedive on Aliwal Shoal, a Marine Protected Area and Mission Blue Aliwal Shoal Hope Spot.

Ocean Experience Boat Rides

Time: 10am to 2pm

Venue: Aliwal Shoal MPA, Scottburgh

Details: 6 boats will be taking visitors out to sea to visit the beautiful Aliwal Shoal MPA, opportunity for people to be immersed in the ocean

Ocean Warriors Ocean Sports Clinic

Time: 10am to 11am

Venue: Scottburgh Main Beach

Details: Young surf lifesavers will learn more about the ocean during this informative sports clinic.

Live Music with Leatherback Rum

Time: 5.30pm to 9pm

Venue: Premier Hotel, Cutty Sark

Details: There will be great local musical acts taking to the stage after dark at Premier Hotel.

SUNDAY 8 JUNE 2025

World Ocean Day Beach Clean-up

Time: 8am to 4pm

Venue: Scottburgh Main Beach

Details: Celebrate World Ocean Day by contributing to ocean health with a beach clean-up, taking place throughout the day on Sunday.

Beach Yoga with Laura Koenig

Time: 8am to 9am

Venue: Scottburgh Main Beach

Details: Start World Ocean Day with some mindful yoga right on the beach, led by renowned local yoga instructor, Laura Koenig.

Leatherback Rum Aliwal Shoal Surfski Challenge

Time: 9am to 1pm

Venue: Scottburgh Main Beach to Aliwal Shoal

Details: Watch multiple World Champions race to the Aliwal Shoal competing for the title of KZN Double Ski Champions at this year’s Leatherback Rum Aliwal Shoal Surfski Challenge.

Nia Dance & Movement with Liz Cunningham

Time: 9.30am to 10.30am

Venue: Scottburgh Main Beach

Details: Get those heart rates up with an invigorating dance and movement session on the beach.

Thanks were extended to Ocean Festival sponsors: Halfway Group, Leatherback Rum, and the Pumpsmith.

Check @theoceanfestival on Instagram and Facebook, and www.oceanfestival.co.za website for the most updated Ocean Festival programme details. Contact Barry Lewin on Barry@oceanfestival.global for more on the Leatherback Rum Aliwal Shoal Surfski Challenge.