Penguin Hugs Surfers In South Africa (Video)

Originally posted on SURFER | By Chris Dodds | Last updated Aug 18, 2025 6:48 PM ET

As far as cold water marine ecosystems go, the waters off Cape Town are amongst some of the most biodiverse in the world--especially in proximity of a major city. Because of this, South African surfers are privy to wildlife experiences many people will never know.

Alan van Gysen (AVG), renowned photographer and filmmaker based in Cape Town, has captured an amazing array of moments but he says nothing was quite like this recent experience he and a group of surfers had with a penguin at Noordhoek Beach.

"From sharks to seals to whales and everything in-between, Cape Town in South Africa is renowned for wildlife encounters in the water. But it’s rare for surfers to see a penguin, let alone share a few waves with one – until this little guy came along."

"It was one the most incredible wildlife experiences I've ever had in my 25 years of photography. You know, down this beach, and around Cape Town, I've had interactions with whales, seals, dolphins, and even sharks, but I've never experienced anything quite like this...I'm pretty blown away to be honest."

Coming from AVG, that's really saying something. He's taken his camera all across the African continent as well as documented some of the most iconic waves in the world for the "Origin Series" by Now Now Media, the production company he runs with journalist Will Bendix. Together they've told the story of such waves like Puerto Escondido, Safi, Skeleton Bay, African Kirra, with many more on the way.

Each of those films should be required viewing to anyone who cares to know about the history of the waves that have been imprinted upon the collective consciousness of surfers everywhere. If wildlife viewing is more your thing, than the Sardine Run should be at the top of your list. Just be ready to book a trip to South Africa because it sure will leave you frothing.