Surfboards, skateboards, ocean conservation, swimwear, live music and a whole lot of beach culture. Surf Expo Africa is returning to Cape Town this November, and its second edition promises something for everyone, whether you’re happiest catching waves or watching them from the shore.
If your idea of a perfect beach day involves a good book, a comfortable spot in the sun and absolutely no intention of getting on a surfboard, don’t scroll past this one.
Surf Expo Africa is returning to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 6 to 8 November 2026, and despite its name, surfing is only part of the experience.
Following its inaugural event in 2025, Africa’s first all-ocean sport and beach lifestyle trade show is back for a bigger second edition, with more exhibitors, more activities and plenty of reasons to bring the whole family along.
Bigger, broader and bringing the ocean community together
This year’s event will feature 70 exhibitors, up from 50 in 2025, showcasing everything from ocean-inspired products and outdoor lifestyle brands to innovative businesses and conservation initiatives.
Organisers are also hoping to more than double last year’s attendance.
“There’s no point in messing with a winning strategy,” says Surf Expo Africa co-founder and organiser Jason Cumming.
“We saw how much people enjoyed the first event, so this year we’ve kept the format but grown the offering. We want more people to experience it and discover just how much there is beyond surfing.”
And judging by what’s planned, there’s quite a bit to discover.
From surfboard shaping to skateboarding
One of the more interesting attractions will be the live surfboard-shaping demonstrations by Safari Surfboards legend Spider Murphy.
Visitors will get to watch the craftsmanship that goes into creating a surfboard, offering a behind-the-scenes look at something most of us only ever see as a finished product.
There will also be skateboarding areas, live product demonstrations, brand activations, swimwear fashion shows and live music.
For those who prefer getting involved rather than watching from the sidelines, the expo will feature hands-on activities and challenges for both adults and children.
It’s a chance to explore different sides of ocean and outdoor culture, all under one roof.
More than just fun in the sun
Of course, an event celebrating the ocean wouldn’t be complete without conversations about protecting it.
Surf Expo Africa’s 2026 speaker programme will feature 25 local and international voices covering everything from marine science and environmental conservation to entrepreneurship, inclusion and surf culture.
Among the speakers are Zandile Ndhlovu of the Black Mermaid Foundation, Dr Sara Andreotti of SharkSafe Barriers, Talitha Noble-Trull of Two Oceans Aquarium, Ant Stott of The Litterboom Project and Steve “Spike” Pike of Wavescape.
The programme offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about the ocean, the people working to protect it and the businesses and communities connected to it.
Meet the people behind the brands
Another big part of the expo is the opportunity to meet the people creating the products.
With 70 exhibitors representing South African and international brands, visitors can discover new products, chat to entrepreneurs and learn more about the businesses operating within the recreational blue economy.
Rather than simply browsing products online, it’s an opportunity to see demonstrations, ask questions and connect directly with the makers and innovators.
“Surf Expo Africa is about bringing the whole ocean community together,” says Cumming.
“You might arrive because you surf, but you could leave having discovered open-water swimming, a new outdoor activity, a conservation project, an innovative product or a business you didn’t know existed.”
Make a family day of it
If you’re looking for something different to do in Cape Town this November, Surf Expo Africa could be worth adding to the calendar.
With activities for younger visitors, plenty for adults to explore and free admission for children under 12, the event is designed to appeal to more than just dedicated ocean-sport enthusiasts.
And while you might not leave ready to paddle out into the Atlantic, you could very well discover a new hobby, a local brand worth supporting or a little more appreciation for the ocean.
Everything you need to know
Event: Surf Expo Africa 2026
Dates: 6–8 November 2026
Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Cape Town
Tickets: One-day and multi-day passes, family and pensioner ticket options
Children: Under 12s enter free
Book tickets: Howler – Surf Expo Africa 2026
More information: surfexpoafrica.com
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