Dive Into Flavour: KZN South Coast Launches Coastal Seafood Flavours Festival This July

The KZN South Coast is serving more than sunshine this winter. While most flock here for Blue Flag beaches, balmy days and the thrilling Sardine Run, this July adds another reason to visit: the launch of the Coastal Seafood Flavours Festival at St Michael’s Beach on Saturday, 26 July – a celebration of South Africa’s vibrant marine cuisine and deep-rooted coastal traditions.

“We are delighted to expand our tourism offerings with this exciting new festival that celebrates the flavours, natural wonder, and people of the KZN South Coast,” said Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE).

“This is a family-friendly event that will unlock the incredible potential of our seafood tourism, while introducing visitors to all the natural assets and outdoor adventure the KZN South Coast has to offer.”

A Tribute to Coastal Culture

The festival proudly aligns with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s ‘Fishing for Freedom’ campaign. Designed to spotlight regional seafood excellence, the event honours the South Coast’s long-standing fishing heritage.

It also forms part of a two-city celebration of marine gastronomy, with Saldanha Bay in the Western Cape hosting a sister event.

Gastronomy for Growth: Workshop for Young Chefs

As a prelude to the main event, a Gastronomy Workshop will take place on Friday, 25 July at Kayla-Ann’s Restaurant in Pennington.

Here, over 200 aspiring chefs from across KwaZulu-Natal will be mentored by some of South Africa’s most celebrated culinary leaders. Under the theme Gastronomy for Growth, the workshop will cover:

• Monetising culinary talent
• Creating a distinctive food brand
• Innovation and sustainability in seafood
• The art of food and drink pairing

Mentors include:

• Chef Kayla Osborn, founder of Kayla-Ann’s
• Chef Lungi Nhlanhla, of Lungi’s Corner
• Chef Thamsanqa Dlamini, founder of Chef Thami Kitchen Studio
• Ndumiso Mncwabe, mixologist and founder of Bars Equipped

“This is more than a training session; it’s a platform to ignite passion, purpose, and possibility in our youth,” said Phindile Zulu, Festival Director. “We’re proud to have curated a lineup of chefs who not only inspire with their craft but also lead with heart.”

Coastal Seafood Flavours Festival – 26 July

The main event takes place on Saturday, 26 July at the beautiful St Michael’s Beach, promising a full day of culinary flair, family fun, and coastal celebration. Proudly supported by the DFFE and KZN Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, the festival will feature:

• Live Seafood Cooking Demonstrations
• Celebrity Chef Cookouts
• Restaurant Tastings & Showcases
• A Local Seafood Market & Artisanal Stalls
• Junior Cookout Competition
• Family Fun Walk
• Live Music & Entertainment
• Beach Sports & Outdoor Activities

Whether you’re a foodie, adventurer or simply seeking a great family outing, the Coastal Seafood Flavours Festival is a delicious day out on the South Coast.

Festival Info at a Glance

• Date: Saturday, 26 July 2025
• Venue: St Michael’s Beach, KZN South Coast
• Tickets:
  • Adults: R100
  • Kids: R20
  • Seafood Brunch Experience: R950
  • Tickets via TicketPro

Unlock Adventure on the KZN South Coast

The Coastal Flavours Seafood Festival offers more than mouth-watering experiences — it celebrates the heart of the South Coast community, its culinary identity, and the sea-to-plate journey that feeds the nation.