Sharks of the KZN South Coast
The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is world-renowned not only for its reefs and pelagics but also for the incredible diversity of sharks that visit its offshore sites. When you dive Aliwal Shoal or Protea Banks, you’re entering prime habitat for both reef-dwelling species and large migratory predators. Below is a guide to the most commonly seen sharks, their seasonal patterns, and what makes the hammerhead encounter so unforgettable.
Hammerhead Sharks — The Star Encounter
Where & When: Hammerheads are most frequently sighted at Protea Banks and during specific pelagic events. Sightings rise in the cooler months and from late autumn into winter along the South Coast.
Why They’re Special: The scalloped and great hammerhead are the most common in these waters. Traveling in schools of dozens (sometimes hundreds), they offer one of the most spectacular shark encounters possible. Their distinctive “hammer” head (cephalofoil) boosts maneuverability, stereo vision, and electroreception, making them master hunters and instantly recognizable icons of the deep.
Diving Experience: Seeing a school of hammerheads drift past beneath you is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Dive operators like Dive In Adventures carefully plan seasonal expeditions to maximize sightings while ensuring every encounter is safe, ethical, and non-intrusive.
Ragged-Tooth (Raggie) Sharks
Aliwal Shoal’s famous Raggie Cave is known for close yet well-managed encounters. These slow-moving, bulky sharks rest in caves and near ledges. Calm and composed, they’re among the most photographed species on the South Coast and perfect for divers seeking thrilling but relaxed interactions.
Tiger Sharks
Mostly seen around Protea Banks and deeper offshore reefs. Large, powerful, and commanding respect, tiger sharks are occasional but unforgettable visitors. Encounters are typically brief, guided, and professionally managed to ensure diver safety.
Bull (Zambezi) Sharks — Local Residents
Frequently seen around Protea Banks and along coastal reefs. These strong, robust sharks are year-round residents of the South Coast. They can appear both on the reef and mid-water, often cruising close to the action during reef and baited dives. Their bold nature and adaptability make them one of the signature species of Protea Banks.
Diving Experience: Bull sharks are a highlight of our dives — powerful but calm when approached respectfully. Dive In Adventures encounters them regularly and follows strict safety protocols, allowing divers to observe these apex predators up close in a controlled, safe environment.
Blacktip Sharks — Year-Round Action
Common across Protea Banks and occasionally seen at Aliwal Shoal. Fast, sleek, and playful, oceanic blacktip sharks are the true locals of Protea Banks. They are often the first to greet divers on baited dives and frequently stay throughout the dive, circling gracefully in the blue.
Diving Experience: Blacktips are highly interactive, photogenic, and provide thrilling, close yet safe encounters. Their presence year-round ensures there’s always action on the reef — even outside the peak hammerhead or tiger season.
Mako Sharks (Shortfin / Oceanic Mako)
Offshore pelagic zones, often during gamefish migration seasons. Among the ocean’s fastest sharks, makos are agile, shimmering blue hunters. Sightings are brief but thrilling — a true bonus for seasoned divers.
Copper Sharks
Protea Banks and surrounding reefs. Streamlined and elegant, these mid-sized sharks often patrol reef edges, especially when baitfish are abundant.
Oceanic Visitors & Pelagic Species
Occasionally, oceanic whitetips, guitar sharks, and other migratory predators appear on Protea Banks’ deep ridges. You may also encounter rays, manta rays, turtles, and large gamefish such as yellowfin tuna or Spanish mackerel — all adding to the South Coast’s incredible biodiversity.
Seasonal Highlights & Best Sightings
Ragged-Tooth Season: Cooler months bring consistent Raggie sightings at Aliwal Shoal.
Hammerhead & Big-Shark Season: From late autumn through spring, expect hammerhead schools and higher shark activity at Protea Banks.
Resident Sharks (Bull & Blacktips): Seen all year, offering constant excitement for divers.
Sardine Run (May–July): One of nature’s greatest spectacles — massive shoals of sardines draw sharks, dolphins, whales, and seabirds into a feeding frenzy.
Safety, Ethics & Responsible Shark Encounters
Respect the animals: Never touch or chase sharks. Stay calm and follow your divemaster’s guidance.
Follow the guide: Reputable operators like Dive In Adventures use strict briefings, controlled approaches, and full surface support for diver safety.
No feeding: Baiting or feeding can alter natural behavior — ethical operators avoid this entirely.
Conservation first: Responsible shark tourism supports research, education, and marine protection efforts.
Plan Your Shark-Diving Adventure
If seeing hammerheads, bulls, or blacktips is on your list, plan ahead. Book with Dive In Adventures, check the seasonal calendar, and ensure you meet certification requirements. With professional crews, full equipment hire, and small-group launches, your dive will be safe, thrilling, and unforgettable.
Reserve your adventure through South Coast Explore — our partner for curated, safety-first dive expeditions to Aliwal Shoal, Protea Banks, and Sardine Run events. Dive In Adventures takes care of everything: expert crews, proper gear, and encounters you’ll remember forever.
