From ocean conservation and marine science to fashion, live music and family activities, Surf Expo Africa is inviting visitors to explore the ocean beyond the waves.
The event returns to Cape Town from 6 to 8 November. Its message is simple: you do not have to surf to enjoy the ocean lifestyle.
Surf Expo Africa is billed as Africa’s first all-ocean sport and beach lifestyle trade show and expo. Now in its second year, the event is expanding its offering while keeping the format that attracted visitors to its inaugural edition in 2025.
Organisers aim to more than double last year’s attendance. The exhibition will also grow from 50 exhibitors to 70.
The expanded line-up will bring together brands, businesses, makers and organisations connected to the ocean and outdoor lifestyle.
“There’s no point in messing with a winning strategy,” says 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.”
Discover the people behind the ocean
For visitors interested in the environment, the event will offer opportunities to engage with experts working across marine science, conservation and environmental action.
The 2026 speaker line-up features 25 local and international voices from the ocean and recreational blue economy.
Among them 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.
Their work spans ocean conservation, marine science, inclusion, surf culture, photography, entrepreneurship and the business of the ocean lifestyle.
The programme offers visitors a chance to learn more about the people and projects working to protect the ocean and grow the wider blue economy.
Fashion, music and hands-on experiences
There will be plenty to explore beyond the speaker sessions.
Visitors can look forward to live product demonstrations, brand activations, swimwear fashion shows and live music.
Skateboarding areas will add to the action. Hands-on activities and challenges will cater to both children and adults.
One of the attractions will be in the shaping bay. Safari Surfboards legend Spider Murphy will shape surfboards live, giving visitors a chance to watch the craft in action.
It is an opportunity to see the skill behind the finished product and meet the people who bring their ideas to life.
The exhibition will also showcase products and brands from South Africa and abroad.
With 70 exhibitors expected, visitors can discover new products, meet entrepreneurs and learn about businesses operating in the recreational blue economy.
A family-friendly day out
Surf Expo Africa is also catering to families looking for something different to do in Cape Town.
Children can take part in activities and challenges, while adults explore the exhibition, watch demonstrations or attend talks.
Children under 12 will enter free, making the event an option for families who want to introduce younger visitors to ocean sports and outdoor activities.
“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.”
Plan your visit
Surf Expo Africa takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 6 to 8 November 2026.
Ticket options include one-day and multi-day passes, family tickets and pensioner tickets. Children under 12 enter free.
IOL