Ocean Adventures on the Sapphire Coast | Diving, Whale Watching & Fishing

Explore the Ocean

Dive into adventureon the Sapphire Coast

The warm Indian Ocean hugs the shores of the Sapphire Coast, creating a playground for adventurers, ocean lovers, and families alike. Whether you’re here to dive the world-famous Aliwal Shoal, chase the excitement of the Sardine Run, or simply enjoy a swim in crystal-clear waters, the ocean is calling.

Sardine Run 2025 | June HighlightsCourtesy: Juelz Vizuelz

Diving Aliwal Shoal: Kzn, South Africa!Courtesy: Juelz Vizuelz

Scuba Diving at Aliwal Shoal

Just offshore from Umkomaas lies Aliwal Shoal — a Marine Protected Area ranked among the top 10 dive sites in the world. This vibrant reef system is alive with colour: coral gardens, sea turtles, rays, reef fish, and even Zambezi and tiger sharks frequent the area.

For a thrilling experience, visit Raggie’s Cave, famous for its ragged-tooth sharks and potato bass. Head out to The Outside Edge for sightings of dolphins, game fish, and more. Dive charters in Umkomaas offer everything from beginner dives to expert excursions.

The Sardine Run (May–July)

The Sapphire Coast plays host to one of the world’s most spectacular natural phenomena on the globe – the annual Sardine Run. Every year, in the winter months between May and July, billions of sardines (also known as pilchards) make their way northwards along the coastline heading towards Mozambique.

Swimming close to shore, the sardines attract seine netters, anglers, and even residents keen to catch a few of these delicious fish. But beyond the dishes they make, sardines also attract other natural predators in the form of game fish, dolphins, whales, sharks, and sea birds overhead. This makes for some spectacular snorkelling, diving, and boat excursions along the Sapphire Coast.

Local lore has it that when the beach aloes bloom, the sardines are coming. It is believed that the more the aloes flower, the more fish there will be.

Deep Sea Fishing & Ocean Charters

Set off from Umkomaas or Winklespruit on a charter boat for a day of deep-sea fishing. Local skippers know the best spots for everything from game fish to bottom feeders. Prefer to stay closer to shore? Try your luck with rock or surf fishing — a favourite local pastime.

Surfing, Snorkelling, Swimming and Water Sports

With consistent swell and warm water year-round, the Sapphire Coast is a paradise for surfers. Warner Beach is especially known for producing some of South Africa’s top surfing talent. Try your hand at surfing, bodyboarding, or even kite surfing if you’re feeling adventurous.

Gentle surf and warm water make this the perfect coast for relaxed swims and easy snorkelling. Explore colourful rock pools, float over shallow reefs, or bring the kids for a safe splash between the lifeguard flags at our main beaches.

Whale Watching & Dolphin Sightings

Between June and November, the Sapphire Coast becomes a front-row seat to the annual whale migration, as humpback whales travel to our warmer waters to give birth. You might spot mothers with their playful calves breaching just offshore — a truly unforgettable sight.

Our coastline is also home to resident dolphin pods, often seen surfing the waves or gliding alongside early morning swimmers and paddlers. Whether you’re walking the beach or enjoying a seaside breakfast, keep your eyes on the water — you never know what magic you’ll see.

Southern Right Whale & Calf Lead Me to Sardine Shoal with Sharks!Courtesy: Juelz Vizuelz

Shark Cage Diving at Aliwal Shoal

For thrill-seekers, the Sapphire Coast offers an unforgettable underwater adventure: shark cage diving at the world-famous Aliwal Shoal, just off the coast of Umkomaas.

Guided by experienced dive operators, you’ll come face-to-face with blacktip sharks, and depending on the season, even tiger sharks — all in their natural environment. No dive experience is needed, just a sense of adventure and a love for the ocean.