Plettenberg Bay

Discovering the Best of Plettenberg Bay, South Africa: A Comprehensive Guide

Nestled along the stunning coast of the Garden Route in South Africa, Plettenberg Bay, often affectionately referred to as "Plett," is a gem of a destination that boasts breathtaking scenery, vibrant ecosystems, rich history, and a plethora of activities suited for families, adventure-seekers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended holiday, this coastal paradise has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the very best things to do in Plettenberg Bay.

1. Bask on the Beautiful Beaches

First and foremost, Plett is renowned for its gorgeous beaches. The golden sands and azure waters of Robberg Beach, Lookout Beach, and Keurbooms Beach give visitors the perfect setting for a day of relaxation or adventure.

Robberg Beach

Popular for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports, this long stretch of beach is ideal for families. The beach is not only beautiful but also offers facilities like showers and restaurants nearby.

Lookout Beach

A favourite among the locals, Lookout Beach is an excellent spot for both surfing and bodyboarding. Plus, its proximity to the town means you’re never too far from amenities.

Keurboomstrand

This beach offers a more tranquil experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter day by the sea. Here, you can enjoy beach walks, picnics, or simply relaxing with a good book.

2. Embark on a Whale Watching Adventure

Between June and November, the waters off Plettenberg Bay become a scenic haven for southern right whales. These gracious giants migrate to the area to calve and nurse their young. Several local operators offer guided boat trips to witness these magnificent creatures, along with the chance to see dolphins and seals. Head out early in the morning for the best viewing opportunities!

3. Get Lost in Nature at Robberg Nature Reserve

Robberg Nature Reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a network of scenic hiking trails that wind through stunning coastal scenery, dramatic cliffs, and unique wildlife. The trails range from short walks to longer, more challenging hikes, with the opportunity to spot seals, dolphins, and even the occasional whale from the cliffs.

Hiking tips

- The Blue Path (2.2 km) is suitable for families and offers gorgeous views.

- The Green Path (5.6 km) and The Yellow Path (9 km)** lead you to the furthest points of the reserve and provide incredible lookout spots.

4. Explore the Local Wine Route

Just a short drive from Plettenberg Bay, the nearby Tsitsikamma Wine Route features several award-winning wineries. Indulge your senses with tastings of locally-produced wines, such as the world-class Sauvignon Blanc and cool-climate Pinot Noir. Many vineyards also offer beautiful picnic spots, allowing visitors to enjoy wine amid stunning landscapes.

5. Experience Adventure Activities

If you’re up for some adrenaline-pumping fun, Plettenberg Bay has a variety of adventure activities to choose from:

Bungee Jumping

For thrill-seekers, the Bloukrans Bridge offers the world's highest commercial bungee jump at 216 meters. Jumping off this iconic bridge is sure to get your heart racing!

Skydiving

Experience the thrill of free-fall with breathtaking views of the ocean and landscapes below, where the scenic beauty of the coastline will be one of the most impressive skydiving spots in the world.

Horse Riding

Discover the stunning landscapes around Plett on horseback. Various operators offer guided trail rides along the beach or through the lush countryside.

Kayaking

Paddle on the calm waters of the Keurbooms River or the Indian Ocean, where you can explore natural caves and spot wildlife like seals and birds.

6. Relax at the Plett Market on Main

Every Saturday, the Plett Market on Main comes alive with stalls offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, unique clothing, and delicious local food. This vibrant market showcases the best of Plett's artistic spirit and provides opportunities for visitors to mingle with locals. Enjoy live music, indulge in some of the best culinary offerings, and find that perfect souvenir piece!

7. Visit Birds of Eden

Home to over 3000 birds from around the world, Birds of Eden is the largest free-flight bird aviary globally and is a fantastic family-friendly attraction. This conservation project offers an immersive experience in the natural rainforest habitat of these majestic birds. Visitors can stroll through lush pathways while encountering various bird species and learning about their habitats and conservation efforts.

8. Take a Scenic Drive to Tsitsikamma National Park

While in Plett, consider taking a day trip to the Tsitsikamma National Park for a dose of natural beauty that includes lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and scenic trails. The park is famous for the Otter Trail, known for its breathtaking views and diverse fauna and flora.

In this pristine wilderness, enjoy kayaking, hiking, or simply taking in the stunning views of the Storms River Mouth. The park’s suspension bridge offers postcard-perfect photo opportunities.

9. Go on a Fishing Expedition

Plettenberg Bay is known for its excellent fishing spots. From deep-sea fishing to river fishing, there are plenty of opportunities for enthusiasts and beginners alike. Many local fishing charters provide guided experiences, ensuring you have a great chance of catching local species such as yellowtail, tuna, and even marlin.

10. Savour Local Cuisine

When it comes to culinary experiences, Plettenberg Bay does not disappoint. The town is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve fresh, locally-sourced seafood and meat. Be sure to try traditional South African dishes, including boerewors (sausage) rolls, fresh fish, and game meats.

Don’t forget to indulge in some of the delicious local desserts or artisanal ice cream to complement your meals throughout your stay. Many restaurants also feature magnificent ocean views.

Conclusion

Plettenberg Bay is more than just a beautiful coastal town; it’s a destination that invites you to immerse yourself in nature, embrace adventure, and savor the local culture. From the pristine beaches perfect for sunbathing to the exhilarating thrill of activities like shark cage diving and bungee jumping, Plett offers an experience that lingers long after the holiday ends.

As one of South Africa’s most loved holiday destinations, Plettenberg Bay is a place where unforgettable memories are made, and with so much to see and do, it's time to pack your bags and explore this coastal paradise! Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, Plettenberg Bay awaits with open arms and sandy beaches beneath your feet.

HISTORY OF PLETTENBERG BAY

Archaeological findings in Nelson’s Bay Cave and Matjies River Cave indicate that these caves were inhabited for over 100 000 yrs by middle stone age man and then later by ancestors of the Khoisan.

Plett, situated 210km from Port Elizabeth and about 600km from Cape Town, was first called at and chartered by Portuguese explorers of the 15th and 16th century, the first being Bartholomew Dias in 1487. 90yrs later Manuel da Perestrello called it ‘Bahia Formosa’ or ‘Bay Beautiful’.

The first white inhabitants were the 100 men stranded here for 9mths when the San Gonzales sank in 1630. In 1763 we had our first white settlers in the Bay-stock farmers, hunters and frontiersmen from the Western Cape. The Swede, Carl Peter Thunberg, was the first to document valuable observations on the bay and Robberg.

The Governor of the Cape, Baron Joachim van Plettenberg, renamed the town ‘Plettenberg Bay’ in 1779

In 1787 a woodcutter’s post was established and Johann Jacob Jerling was commissioned by the Dutch East India Co to build a storehouse for timber, which was first exported in 1788. (You can visit the Old Timber Store; a beacon of stone stands approx. on the spot and has original markings on it!) The timber trade grew and led to Thomas Bain building Prince Alfred Pass (1868) and 90km of forest road through Tsitsikamma to Humansdorp. 3 Major passes had to be constructed: Groot River, Blauwkrantz and Storms River. The entire road was completed 16yrs later in 1885.

In 1910 Capt. Sinclair set up the Whaling Station on Beacon Island (got its first navigational beacon in 1772) to harvest the placid Southern Right Whales but this ceased operation in 1916. The first hotel was erected by Hugh Owen Grant in 1940 and replaced in 1972 by the current well known land mark on Beacon Island.

PLETTENBERG BAY HISTORICAL ROUTE

SAN GONZALES WRECK – off Robberg Beach

This Portuguese ship was wrecked in 1630 and 133 sailors perished. The Jerling family found pieces of the porcelain and other objects in 1979. These were donated to Plettenberg bay in 1988 and can be seen at the Municipal Offices on Sewell Str.

ST. ANDREWS CHAPEL – off Piesangvalley Rd, near the Golf course

This unusual, quaint church is the oldest in the diocese of George. The entire building is uniquely made of yellowwood.

OLD WHALING STATION – presently the site of the Beacon Island Hotel

Built in 1831 but burnt down in 1914. Whaling operations ceased in 1916. One can still view the original slipway and blubber cauldron. The stinkwood navigational beacon was first erected on Beacon Island in 1772 and was replaced by a stone one in 1881 by Capt. Sewell.

OLD TIMBER STORE – at Hobie Beach

Built in 1787/88 by Johann Jerling and the famous Dutch east India Co. The remains are preserved as a National Monument.

THE OLD RECTORY – near the Old Timber Store

This was erected as barracks for the Dutch East India Co in 1776. In 1869 it was bought by St Peters Church and used as a rectory for the next 70yrs. It’s presently privately owned.

ST PETERS CHURCH – on Church Street

A small wooden chapel-cum-school was first built there in 1855 but in 1875 the building was blown down during a seasonal storm. It was replaced with the present stone edifice in 1881 and now serves the local Anglican Community.

DUTCH REFORMED CHURCH – in Witterdrif

Situated in Witterdrif and built in 1834

FOREST HALL – in The Crags

William Henry Newdgate built this historical manor in 1864. The double storey building has an impressive entrance hall, musician’s galley and yellowwood and stinkwood woodwork. Forest Hall is now privately owned.

Accommodation in Plettenberg Bay