Plettenberg Bay – Garden Route

The fact that two Marine Protected Areas flank Plettenberg Bay rightly suggests that the ocean and its inhabitants are intrinsic to the town.

Connecting these landmarks are miles of sandy beaches caressed by clean, temperate waters brimming with marine life.

Rising alongside these pristine shores, the town retains the atmosphere of a quaint coastal village (there is only one set of traffic lights), even as it expands and modernises.

While Plettenberg Bay has evolved into a premier holiday destination of modern hotels and luxury estates, traditional fishing huts passed down through generations still dot the coastline.

Overlooking the bay, the village theme continues, with family-owned stores sitting side by side with luxury boutiques and traditional fish-and-chip shops among the numerous fine dining establishments.

Sea, Sun & Fun: What to do in Plettenberg Bay

Nominated multiple times as the world’s leading beach destination, it follows that its beaches are a star attraction.

There are eight Blue Flag beaches offering safe swimming year round. Although water temperatures are not always for the faint hearted.

Thanks to a strong commitment to ocean conservation, the bay’s marine life is thriving. Dolphins surf, seals frolic, shoals of fish shimmer, and, in winter (June-August), migratory whales arrive to breed.

Visitors can explore these treasures on permitted whale watching excursions, fishing boats, sea kayaking tours, and PADI-certified dive charters.

Outdoor sports enthusiasts will find a wealth of opportunities. Whether you’re into trail running, mountain biking, ocean paddling or workouts in the gym, you’ll have no trouble elevating your heart rate.

Surrounded by the ocean and tracts of indigenous forests, nature enthusiasts will find numerous trails, wildlife sanctuaries and adventure activities to choose from.

Among these is the spectacular Robberg Peninsula, which juts into the Indian Ocean and is a hotspot for land-based sightings of great white sharks.

Plettenberg Bay is the ideal destination for family holidays. Most hotels have programs for the kids, while the beaches, wildlife sanctuaries and Adventureland Waterpark are very popular.

Plenty of places to eat and stay in Plettenberg Bay

Complementing the town’s taste for adventure, Plettenberg Bay’s culinary offerings provide ample fuel for the varied activities.

On its outskirts, several wineries cater to sophisticated palates, pairing their latest offerings with artisanal cuisine.

More casual dining options overlook the ocean, while everything from fast food to fine dining is readily available.

Additionally, there are several weekly markets offering delicious locally-inspired homemade delicacies.

With adventure addicts, sun worshippers and foodies well catered for, it also boasts a myriad of accommodation options.

From pitching your tent at a designated campsite alongside the tranquil Keurbooms Lagoon to lapping up luxury in a penthouse suite, Plettenberg Bay’s accommodation options cater to every taste.

Plettenberg Bay past and present: A brief history

Affectionately known as “Plett”, Plettenberg Bay boasts a rich history anchored in the bay it surrounds. The area was originally inhabited by the hunter-gatherer Khoisan people.

In the 15th century, passing explorers dubbed the bay “Bahia Formosa” (Beautiful Bay).

In the 1770s, a timber outpost was established, while in the 1830s, a commercial whaling station was set up.

Since then, Plett has evolved from a sleepy seaside village to a bustling holiday destination, revered for its natural beauty, multitude of activities and festive local community.