Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay can best be described as being a combination of a first-rate seaside resort and a Mecca for adventure seekers and nature-lovers. This little town sits on the end of the Garden Route along the coast of the warm Indian Ocean.
The charming seaside town of Plettenberg Bay is one of the top holiday destinations in South Africa and is popular with both local and international visitors because of its beautiful surroundings. Plettenberg Bay is located on the south coast approximately 600km to the east of Cape Town and approximately 210km to the west of Port Elizabeth.
In “Plett,” as the locals call it, you can choose from a relaxing seaside holiday, an adrenaline packed getaway or a wilderness adventure – there is so much to choose from that it’s not surprising the town has earned its reputation as being a hotspot for pleasure seekers of all ages.
The vast forests situated at the bottom of the Tsitsikama and Outeniqua mountains form the entryway to the Plettenberg Bay area. The indigenous forests are a combination of temperate forest and Cape Fynbos and are filled with a large variety of bird species, as well as small antelope and the elusive Knysna elephants.
The combination of rivers, the ocean and the bay make Plettenberg Bay the ideal location for water sports enthusiasts. There is a thriving surfing community and many great places to choose from to catch some great waves all year round.
There is also a flourishing arts community in Plettenberg Bay and locally produced arts and crafts that include beadwork, wood and metal work can be found at the Simunye Community Centre, as well as along the Crags route, where you can purchase items from farm stalls and artists’ workshops.
There are a number of great restaurants, cafés and coffee shops to choose from, as well as a variety of pubs and clubs for night time entertainment. Those keen to sample some local liquor can organise a trip to Plettenberg Bay’s wine estate, or if you would prefer something a little bit stronger you can arrange a trip to the Mampoer and Witblits distillery, where you can see how this very strong local alcohol is made and sample the wears.
- Visit one of the many wildlife sanctuaries in the area
- Dolphin, seal and whale (in season) spotting
- Play a round of golf at two top-notch golf courses
- Walks along the pristine beaches
- Visit the Harkerville market on a Saturday
- Take a boat trip to observe the abundant marine life in the area
- Idyllic conditions for all types of water sports
- Excellent trails for mountain bikers, hikers, horse riders and canoeists
- Skydiving
- Go on a treetop canopy tour
- Rock climbing
- Surf fishing
- Scuba diving
- Sailing
- Surfing
- Bird watching
- Dolphin and seal spotting
- Whale watching in season
Plettenberg Bay is perfect for a summer or winter holiday due to its warm summers (October to March), where day time temperatures reach an average of 27°C – 30°C, and mild winters (May to August), where day time temperatures seldom drop below an average of 10°C. Rainfall occurs throughout the year, but mainly falls at night. Peak season is generally from December until February, but can be busy up to May. Whale watching season begins in July and lasts until November and can be quite busy as well.
- Fantastic restaurants, cafes, pubs and clubs
- Lots of exercise
- Stunning natural surroundings
- Incredible views
- Beautiful clean sandy beaches
- Fresh sea air
- Rest and relaxation
- Many activities and attractions
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Is Plettenberg Bay not your ideal destination? Explore more popular holiday destinations in the Western Cape.