Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are being celebrated across the globe on MPA Day, with lots of activities planned across South Africa – its country of origin!
The countdown has begun to MPA Day on Saturday, 1 August, and South Africans are invited to discover the incredible marine life on their doorstep through a packed programme! Guided hikes, snorkelling excursions, beach clean-ups, fun runs, educational talks, citizen science projects, online events… there’s something for everyone – even those living inland.
“MPA Day aims to include everyone, from every walk of life, no matter where they live – because the health of our ocean affects us all,” says Dr Judy Mann-Lang, from the Two Oceans Aquarium and Founder of MPA Day. “The day’s activities are designed to inspire all ages and interests, with online activities connecting those who live far from the ocean as well. Even if you can’t participate, we encourage you to do whatever you can – create awareness, reduce plastic use, or pick up litter – because every small act works toward our great goal – protecting the ocean.”
What’s planned for MPA Day 2026
1. Sodwana Bay MPA | KwaZulu-Natal
Organisers: Adventure Mania (info@adventuremania.co.za) | Maputaland Hope Spot (thongatrails@gmail.com)
Some of South Africa’s biggest MPA Day celebrations will take place in the iSimangaliso MPA, with activities including:
• 5km, 10km and 21km Fun Run & Walk: Through the dunes and along the beach, celebrating the importance of the Sodwana Bay MPA.
• Marine Conservation Presentations: For Grade 6 to 8 pupils, highlighting the role of MPAs and introducing careers in marine science, ecotourism, and scuba diving.
• Rocky Shores Explorer Challenge and Beach Clean-Up: Pupils get hands-on experience discovering marine life while helping protect the coastline.
• Children’s Ocean Celebration: Message in a bottle activities, whale-themed games, recycled coral reef building, and Ocean Olympics for local children.
2. uThukela MPA | KwaZulu-Natal
Organiser: Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Pupils from schools neighbouring the MPA will enjoy:
• Guided rocky shore explorations.
• Discovering the remarkable species living between the tides.
• Learning how MPAs safeguard these unique ecosystems.
3. Aliwal Shoal MPA | KwaZulu-Natal
Organisers: Wild Alliance Africa (claire.ht431@gmail.com) | Aliwal Shoal Hope Spot
A full day of activities includes:
• A 33km beach walk along the length of the MPA.
• Guided scuba diving and snorkelling excursions on Aliwal Shoal.
• Screening of the Mission Blue documentary featuring a special message from Dr Sylvia Earle.
• Citizen science rocky shore exploration with Wild Alliance Africa Ocean Leadership interns.
4. Tsitsikamma MPA | Western Cape
Organiser: Nature’s Valley Trust (alejandra.vargas@nvt.org.za)
• Guided rocky shore exploration for 60 primary school pupils.
• Hands-on discovery of marine life including crabs, fish and starfish.
• Lessons on why healthy MPAs benefit both wildlife and local communities.
Organiser: Conserve Eden
• Guided hike through Robberg Nature Reserve, showcasing one of the Garden Route’s most spectacular MPAs.
5. Table Mountain MPA | Western Cape
With activities across the peninsula, there’s something for every ocean enthusiast:
Organiser: Two Oceans Aquarium (marketing@aquarium.co.za)
• Free Rocky Shore Explore at Dalebrook Tidal Pool from 10am to 12pm. Discover sea stars, nudibranchs, octopus, anemones and other fascinating marine life.
Organiser: I AM WATER Foundation (page@iamwaterfoundation.org)
• Guided community snorkel through the Great African Seaforest at Miller’s Point. Suitable for beginners and experienced snorkellers, with equipment provided.
Organiser: Trail Freedivers (ian@designology.co.za)
• Guided freediving and snorkelling adventure at Water’s Edge Beach near Boulders Beach.
Organiser: Ocean Pledge (diony@mesh.co.za)
• Kayaking through the False Bay MPA with marine biologists.
• Educational session on MPAs.
Organiser: Save a Fishie (info@saveafishie.co.za)
• Beach clean-up and nurdle hunt at Milnerton Lagoon to help protect the Robben Island MPA.
Organiser: Guardians of the Deep (sallys@guardiansofthedeep.org.za)
• Swim for Life fundraising challenge across multiple locations within the Table Mountain and Robben Island MPAs. This raises funds for marine conservation, ranger support, and water safety.
6. Creative & Community Activities
Not every MPA Day activity takes place in an MPA:
Organiser: Sunshine Life Centre (communication4nature@gmail.com)
• Family-friendly Market featuring educational exhibits, interactive displays and activities in Port Alfred.
Organiser: The Ocean Advocate (renee@theoceanadvocate.com)
• Free online communication toolkit helping scientists and conservation organisations tell more compelling ocean stories.
Don’t Miss Any of the MPA Day Action!
For these and many more MPA Day activities, visit the MPA Day Map or check www.MPADay.org for updated events and activities. Check out the MPA Day videos on YouTube.
Keep updated by following:
Marine Protected Areas Day on Instagram
@MPASouthAfrica on Facebook
MPA Day on LinkedIn
MPA DAY FAQs
1. What is MPA Day?
MPA (Marine Protected Area) Day is celebrated annually on 1 August to raise awareness of the importance of Marine Protected Areas in protecting biodiversity, supporting sustainable fisheries, building climate resilience and connecting people with the ocean.
2. Do I need to live near the ocean to take part?
No. Many activities are available online, while everyone can contribute by reducing pollution, learning more about ocean conservation, supporting sustainable seafood and sharing awareness about Marine Protected Areas.
3. Are the activities suitable for families?
Yes. Many events have been specifically designed for children and families, including guided rock pool explorations, snorkelling, educational talks, beach clean-ups, creative activities and fun runs.
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