With warm weather, inviting ocean waters, and a calendar packed with high-energy events, there’s no better time to visit the scenic Sapphire Coast! Sapphire Coast Tourism has announced three standout events that will attract families, adventure-seekers, and culture lovers to this vibrant stretch of coastline over the Easter and early winter holiday period.
Located just 30km south of Durban, Amanzimtoti is a coastal gem just close enough to the city, but far enough to give visitors that authentic coastal vibe!
Romy Wenzel of Sapphire Coast Tourism says the upcoming line-up showcases the diversity of experiences available in the region: “Amanzimtoti truly comes alive during the holidays, and we’re so excited to have three major events taking place on our shores in April and May. While these top-class events are drawcards, they’re also a great excuse for visitors to experience our beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and community spirit of the Sapphire Coast.”
1. Dinosaurs, Reptiles & Easter Family Fun
For the first time ever, Amanzimtoti will host an action-packed dinosaur and reptile spectacular over the Easter weekend – hosted by Dinomite Events and Pure Venom and supported by Sapphire Coast Tourism. On 4 and 5 April, there will also be a Family Market to enjoy before or after the Dinomite show!
Families can step into a prehistoric world featuring a Dino Hatchery, live ranger training sessions with Blue the Dino, kiddies Dino scooter rides, thrilling Dino Egg Hunts with fantastic prizes, and even a chance to come face-to-face with Houdini the Escape Artist. Adding to the wow factor is South Africa’s largest holograph 3D fan experience, along with interactive reptile encounters from Africa’s largest reptile farm.
- Dates: 4 to 6 April 2026
- Venue: Amanzimtoti Civic Hall
- Cost: R150 for both shows | Children under 3 free
- Tickets: Available via Quicket or at the door
- Contact: 083 628 5801 | 082 757 3535
2. Amanzimtoti Surf Fest 2026
Surf’s up at Amanzimtoti Main Beach as surfers of all levels get to compete in this licensed surfing competition. This is open for everyone and anyone to enter who lives that surfing life! The winning competitor will walk away with an R8 000 cash prize, with epic prizes for the runners-up. Spectators can enjoy high-performance wave riding alongside beach rugby and volleyball matches, creating a vibrant sporting atmosphere. Artisan markets will line the beachfront, offering handcrafted goods and seaside shopping – with beachfront restaurants available for hungry visitors. The festival is hosted by Shorebreak Surf Club, with Sapphire Coast Tourism supporting, sponsored by Spur and East Coast Radio.
- Dates: 25 to 26 April 2026
- Time: 8am
- Venue: Amanzimtoti Main Beach
- Cost: R70 entry
- Contact: Rudolph 064 762 8392 for entries | Limited spots available
3. The Highland Gathering 2026
One of the most anticipated annual events on the Sapphire Coast, the Highland Gathering brings together an extraordinary celebration of Scottish heritage, music, and community spirit. Hosted by The Lions Club of Amanzimtoti and supported by Sapphire Coast Tourism, this is recognised as the largest gathering of pipe bands in the Southern Hemisphere! The event welcomes bands from across South Africa for spirited competition, culminating in the spectacular Massed Bands performance at 5pm – a goosebump-inducing symphony of bagpipes and drums.
Three sports fields transformed into vibrant craft markets with diverse food stalls and beer tents, adedicated kids’ play area, and live entertainment throughout the day. This iconic fundraiser draws crowds of up to 10,000 people and remains a firm favourite on the KZN events calendar!
- Date: 2 May 2026
- Gates Open: 8am
- Venue: Hutchison Park Sports Grounds, Amanzimtoti
- Contact: WhatsApp 072 767 7833 | Email info@highlandgathering.co.za
So Much to Explore on the Sapphire Coast
Beyond these headline events, visitors can soak up the sunshine on Amanzimtoti’s golden beaches, enjoy family fun at Splash Waterworld plus Slide’n Glide Go Bananaz, and world-class diving and fishing adventures at the renowned Aliwal Shoal. The area also offers horseback beach rides, nature trails and waterfalls, and unforgettable wildlife encounters at Crocworld Conservation Centre.
There’s so much happening on the Sapphire Coast this summer – don’t miss out! For more information, visit www.sapphirecoasttourism.co.za or follow Sapphire Coast Tourism on Facebook and Instagram.
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Author: Agnes Matladi from Olivia Jones Communications on behalf of Sapphire Coast.
Steve Van Schaik From McGregor On Cape Talk Thursday 19th March 9PM