Get ready to ride the wave of one of the coolest winter festivals on the coast. The Plett Ocean Festival is back from 4–13 July 2025, bringing 10 days of wave-crashing action, marine conservation, and salty-haired good vibes to the shores of Plettenberg Bay.
All Eyes on the Wedge Classic
One of the main attractions? The Wedge Classic Surf & Bodyboarding Contest, hosted by the Plett Board Riders Association. Taking place at the legendary Wedge Beach—arguably one of South Africa’s most unpredictable and thrilling breaks—the Classic is where the ocean shows off and the country’s best riders follow suit.
From SA Champs and seasoned Plett Vets to up-and-coming groms and “granny groms” proving age is just a number, the contest draws competitors of all stripes across various divisions: junior, open, ladies, masters, and drop-knee. This year’s names to watch include local talents James McNicol and Taylor Duncan, both amped and ready to rip. Plus, with the J-Bay Open on the horizon, international surfers are already in town—so don’t be surprised if a few legends show up to spectate (or sneak in a ride).
Triple Crown Gets a Twist
It wouldn’t be the Classic without the return of the Triple Crown, where over-18s take on surfing, bodyboarding—and this year’s wildcard event—karaoke. That’s right: the after-dark energy hits a high at Surf Café’s open mic night, where contestants trade wetsuits for microphones and compete to become this year’s multi-talented champion. Word is the granny groms are bringing the heat—both on the waves and on stage.
Beach Vibes & Family Fun
But it’s not just about the surf. The beach buzzes with activity throughout the week:
- Bitcoin treasure hunts
- Slacklines and play zones for kids
- Pop-up food stalls and ocean-friendly merch
- Whale watching, beach cleanups, and conservation chats
Spectator shelters will be in place for less-than-sunny days, so you can soak up the action rain or shine. As they say: #PlettItsAFeeling
The Science Behind the Splash
Running alongside the surf stoke is the Plett Marine Science Symposium, a three-day deep dive into the wonders of the ocean. But don’t let the word “symposium” scare you—it’s built to inform, inspire and engage ocean lovers of all levels. Book a single session or go all-in for the full schedule. Expect wow-factor marine facts, practical conservation tips, and local legends sharing hidden knowledge.
Festival Favourites: What Else is On?
The full Plett Ocean Festival programme is jam-packed. Here are just a few must-do’s:
- Ocean and river kayaking, scuba diving, and seal snorkelling
- Daily whale, dolphin and pelagic bird viewing
- Rock pools by moonlight and local storytelling with Plett Shark Spotters
- Beach cleanups, sand sculpting, and the epic Winter Swim
- ‘Welcoming the Whales’ ceremony, Deep Blue parties, and Burgers for the Bay
For the full festival lineup and ticket bookings, visit www.plettoceanfestival.co.za.
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