Plettenberg Bay

A chic resort town with a stunning location overlooking a beautiful bay. Long sandy beaches and panoramic views of the ocean and Tsitsikamma Mountains.

Overview

The Portuguese called it Bahia Formosa (beautiful bay) when they first saw Plettenberg Bay in 1497. Now ‘Plett’ is also known for its temperate climate, superb sandy beaches, water sports and the spectacular Robberg Nature Reserve. It is immensely popular with South Africans at Christmas as one of the beach resorts of choice, with occasional sorties from the international polo jet-set crowd. But outside of the festive (Christmas) season it returns to being a charming and quiet seaside town.

From its three beaches, you may be lucky to see the Southern Right Whales which come right into the bay to calve from July to November. (The peak season is September and October). Daily ocean safaris are on offer for boat-based whale-watching during that season. With marine cruises to enjoy the dolphins and seals in the summer months.

Plettenberg Bay is ideal if you want to spend time on the beach. But it’s also a great base to explore the eastern side of the Garden Route such the Tsitsikamma National Park and the Crags.

As well as hotels and boutique lodges in Plettenberg Bay itself, there are some stunning hotels in rural areas nearby, including The Crags which lies only 20km away.

Horse-riding on Lookout beach at Plettenberg Bay

Features

Why you may love it

  • Visit Robberg Nature Reserve for wonderful walking trails along the cliff tops amongst superb fynbos.
  • Whale-watching by boat for close & awe-inspiring encounters.
  • Sea kayaking amongst the whales and dolphins as well as the pelagic birds, seals…
  • Cruise up the Keurbooms River to see the unspoiled natural vegetation and soaring gorges.
  • Great walks on the coast and along forest trails.
  • Alfresco lunches at the beach.

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Accommodation

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Did you know
  • HistoryThe Portuguese called it Bahia Formosa (beautiful bay) when they first saw it in 1497.
  • Ocean SafarisWhale-watching from July to November

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Milandi Joubert

Africa Travel Specialist

Hi I’m Milandi, I’m here to help you plan your ideal holiday experience

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