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If it feels like everyone in Durban suddenly owns a padel racket, you’re not wrong!
Padel has exploded across South Africa over the past few years, transforming from a niche sport into one of the country’s biggest lifestyle crazes. With Durban’s great year-round weather, it’s no surprise this has become one of the province’s fastest-growing sports.
And this weekend, it’s bringing the heat to Ballito.
The Karibu Pro Padel Festival takes place this weekend (5 to 7 June 2026) at Karibu Restaurant and Padel in Ballito, attracting some of South Africa’s top padel players for a high-energy weekend.
Alongside the top-class competition, visitors can look forward to live music, great food, and family-friendly fun.
What’s the obsession with Padel?
“What makes padel so unique is its ability to bring people back into a health and fitness environment while remaining highly social,” says Event Organiser Courtney Challis-Chandler. “Whether you played squash, tennis, hockey, or soccer years ago, padel has given many people a platform to reconnect with sport in an accessible and enjoyable way.”
That social side is a huge part of why Durban and Ballito have embraced it so quickly. Beyond the fun of the game, Padel is all about the post-game coffee and social community off the court.
“Karibu Padel is a family-friendly destination where people can enjoy a game of Padel, spend time fishing in the dam, share a meal, have a drink, and simply enjoy the outdoors. It truly offers something for everyone!”
What you can expect at the Karibu Pro
Now in its 3rd year, the Karibu Pro continues to grow rapidly, attracting top South African players while also expanding opportunities for intermediate and advanced competitors.
But even if you’re not competing, the festival promises a seriously fun weekend out. Visitors can expect:
- Top-tier padel action
- Live music throughout the weekend
- Delicious food vendors
- A Slip ‘n Slide for the kids
- Outdoor family-friendly entertainment
- Relaxed Ballito winter vibes
What you need to know
- Event: Karibu Pro Padel Festival 2026
- Dates: 5 to 7 June 2026
- Times: Starts Friday at 9am until Sunday at 1pm
- Venue: Karibu Leisure Resort, Ballito
- Expect: Padel tournaments, live music, food stalls, kids’ entertainment and family fun
- Accommodation: Book here
Whether you’re Padel-obsessed already or just curious about what all the hype is about, head to Ballito for an all-out weekend of Padel fun!
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