Coastal Flavours Seafood Festival: A Culinary Celebration on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast

ST Michael’s Beach on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast will transform into a culinary haven as it hosts the inaugural Coastal Flavours Seafood Festival, which promises to be a vibrant celebration dedicated to showcasing the rich local cuisine and ocean-side entertainment.

Endorsed by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), the festival aims to honour the South Coast’s cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism and community pride.

According to festival director Phindile Zulu, the Coastal Flavours Seafood Festival was much more than a food event.

“It’s a celebration of the South Coast’s cultural richness, culinary talent, and ocean heritage.

From empowering young chefs to showcasing coastal cuisine, we’re building something that strengthens local tourism and community pride,” Zulu enthused.

The festival promises a full day of family-friendly activities starting from St Michael’s Beach, featuring a variety of attractions aimed at engaging attendees of all ages.

Highlights include seafood cookouts with celebrity chefs, an expansive seafood market filled with artisanal stalls, tasting experiences, and a sumptuous three-course seafood brunch.

Little ones can enjoy a dedicated kiddies play area, while aspiring chefs compete in a junior cookout competition.

Live music and entertainment will abound, enhancing the festive atmosphere, a family fun run and various outdoor activities are aimed at adding to the excitement of the day.

Central to the festival’s mission is a tribute to the region’s rich fishing traditions, supporting the DFFE's 'Fishing for Freedom' campaign, which emphasises the importance of sustainable fishing practices.

As one of only two national showcases for seafood in the country alongside the Saldanha Bay, Western Cape, event that is set for November, the Coastal Flavours Seafood Festival stands as a testament to South Africa’s seafood excellence and vibrant marine culinary culture.

Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), expressed enthusiasm over the event’s potential to enhance the province’s tourism offerings.

“We are delighted to expand our tourism offerings with this exciting new festival that celebrates the flavours, natural wonder, and people of the KZN South Coast.”

He added, “This is a family friendly event that will unlock the incredible potential of our seafood tourism while introducing visitors to all the natural assets and outdoor adventure the KZN South Coast has to offer.”

Among the enriching experiences at the festival will be the Gastronomy Workshop, a collaborative effort powered by the Department of Tourism aimed at cultivating the next generation of culinary talent in KwaZulu-Natal.

Led by acclaimed chefs including Kayla Osborn from Kayla-Ann’s Restaurant, Lungi Nhlanhla from Lungi’s Corner, Thamsanqa Dlamini from Chef Thami Kitchen Studio, and Ndumiso Mncwabe, a renowned liquid chef, this workshop will offer invaluable training to 300 young chefs on both culinary skills and the business aspects of the food industry.

The workshops will delve into critical topics such as monetising culinary services, brand development, and culinary innovation, echoing the festival’s commitment to fostering professional growth and sustainable economic development within the food sector.

Aspiring chefs interested in participating in the workshop can register for FREE until Wednesday, July 23, via email at hello@coastalseafoodfest.co.za or by contacting 067 928 4886.

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