The focus of countless nature documentaries and described as ‘the planet’s greatest biomass migration’, the Sardine Run is a must-see ocean spectacle that passes by the KZN South Coast every year. The blooming aloes signal the start of the migration, which sees millions of silver fish swimming close to the shoreline, attracting predators from above and below while giving visitors the chance to enjoy the show from wherever they prefer.
“The Sardine Run is one of the KZN South Coast’s biggest tourism drawcards for good reason – it is an absolute wonder to behold for all ages,” said Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Winter on the KZN South Coast, which enjoys a year-round subtropical climate, is incredible – for the Sardine Run and other outdoor adventures. With the holidays approaching, now’s the time to visit the KZN South Coast.”
The Sardine Run movement is monitored by the KZN Sharks Board with regular updates shared on the SCTIE social media platforms. Wayne Harrison of KZN Sharks Board said that while the Sardine Run activity is yet to get underway, there has been some ocean activity further south: “At Port Alfred, there’s been quite a bit of bait fish over the last two weeks with Bryde’s whales coming up to the boats and a pod of young Orcas. Further south to Jeffrey’s Bay there have been common dolphins in the deep feeding and whales in the vicinity. While there’s no sardine activity yet, we are closely monitoring the situation.”
The Sardine Run can be enjoyed a number of ways along the KZN South Coast! From those who want to get involved in the action up close, to those who would prefer to enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of a restaurant – there’s a spot for every Sardine Run visitor.
The KZN South Coast is renowned for its fishing hotspots, and the KZN South Coast is a unique opportunity for anglers to tick off this bucket list item. Charter boats will take visitors out on a day trip fishing expedition in the heart of the action, where big game fish are out on a feeding frenzy.
With two world-class dive sites at Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks, both of which are Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), divers come from all over the globe to experience the warm waters off the KZN South Coast. During the Sardine Run, the sightings are even better as the ocean explodes in marine activity! Visitors can book a tour to go scuba diving, free diving, snorkelling, or even shark cage diving on the KZN South Coast.
The Sardine Run brings the action very close to shore, which means visitors can enjoy the spectacle quite safely from the shore itself! There are 58 golden beaches along the KZN South Coast – including the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the province – so there’s no shortage of seaside from which to relax and enjoy the sights.
With migrating whales and frolicking dolphins a common occurrence off the KZN South Coast, there are many viewing decks to sit and take in the Indian Ocean’s beauty. During the Sardine Run, visitors can head to one of the many whale viewing decks to check out the Sardine Run action in all its glory.
There’s nothing quite like an aerial view of the KZN South Coast, especially when the sardines have come out to play. Visitors can book a trip in a microlight, helicopter, or light aircraft flight for a bird’s-eye view of the massive shoals and predator action below.
Nature photographers do not want to miss the opportunity to capture some of the most breathtaking underwater and ocean-side shots of the epic Sardine Run. Attracting world-renowned documentary makers, for good reason, the Sardine Run presents photographers with the chance to capture award-winning shots of bait balls, breaching whales, and diving gannets.
There are a variety of award-winning restaurants, seaside cafés, and great bars from which visitors can dine, drink, and take in the Sardine Run. Those with a taste for sardines can also find chefs preparing authentic local cuisine that incorporates this delicious seafood ingredient.