SALM TEAM 
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.
Dj Chilu 
