Plettenberg Bay Accommodation

Whales and dolphins frequently visit Plettenberg Bay but they are best viewed from the Robbeberg nature reserve, a peninsula nearby. Plettenberg Bay is great for swimming, sailing, surfing, fishing and hiking. If you prefer to stay on dry land you can go play golf, squash, tennis, and bowling. Hikers can try the Signal Hill Nature Trail, which starts at Signal Hill, through the Piesang Valley, then to the beach close to the old timber store.

Plettenberg Bay, or "Plet" as it is known locally, attracts a large number of rich tourists that prefer to stay in the local hotels. So, hotels are expensive in Plettenberg Bay. The stretch of sand from the Robberg peninsula to the Beacon Isle Hotel is known as the "Millionaires Row".

Fishermen can hire a motorboat from the Plettenberg Bay Angling club, situated on the western bank of the Keurbooms River, if they do wish to go out to sea. Scuba-divers wont be disappointed because there are plenty of wrecks to explore in the area. If you stand in the caravan park of the Robberg reserve you can see the wreck of the greek ship, the "Athena", stranded there in 1967.

Shell-collectors should be on the look-out for the highly sought after "pansy" shell which can be found on very few beaches in south africa.

According to legend Plettenberg Bay was the first involuntary "white settler" area, 20 years before Jan van Riebeeck landed at the cape. In 1630, a portuguese vessel, the Sao Goncalo, stranded in the bay. After eight months, the crew managed to build two smaller boats from the stranded vessel. One of the boats managed to reach Mozambique from where they were transported back to Portugal.The second boat was rescued at sea by another portuguese vessel, the Sao Ignatius Loyola, but the ship never made it back to Portugal.

Plettenberg Bay, situated along the Garden Route in the Western Cape of South Africa, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Here are 10 things to do or see in Plettenberg Bay:

1. Beach Hopping: Explore the stunning beaches that Plettenberg Bay has to offer, including the popular Robberg Beach, Lookout Beach, and Keurboomstrand. Whether you're sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling along the shoreline, the beaches provide a serene setting to relax and unwind.

2. Robberg Nature Reserve: Embark on a scenic hike at the Robberg Nature Reserve, renowned for its dramatic coastal landscapes, unique rock formations, and diverse marine and birdlife. The reserve offers several hiking trails of varying lengths, providing opportunities for breathtaking views and wildlife encounters.

3. Whale and Dolphin Watching: Take a boat tour or find a scenic viewpoint along the coast to witness the majestic Southern Right Whales and dolphins frolicking in the waves. During the winter months, Plettenberg Bay becomes a prime location for whale watching as these magnificent creatures migrate along the coastline.

4. Bird Watching: Explore the diverse birdlife of Plettenberg Bay by visiting the Keurbooms River Nature Reserve or the Plettenberg Bay Bird Sanctuary. Both sites offer excellent birdwatching opportunities, with a chance to spot a variety of species in their natural habitats.

5. Monkeyland and Birds of Eden: Visit Monkeyland and Birds of Eden, two adjacent sanctuaries dedicated to the conservation of primates and birds, respectively. Take a guided tour to learn about these fascinating creatures and observe them in spacious, natural enclosures.

6. Tsitsikamma National Park: Take a day trip to Tsitsikamma National Park, located a short drive from Plettenberg Bay. Explore the rugged coastal cliffs, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems of this protected area, which offers a range of activities such as hiking, kayaking, and canopy tours.

7. Adventurous Activities: Get your adrenaline pumping with a range of adventurous activities in and around Plettenberg Bay, including zip-lining through the treetops, bungee jumping off the Bloukrans Bridge (the highest commercial bungee jump in the world), and surfing the waves at popular surf spots like Robberg Beach.

8. Shopping and Dining: Explore the vibrant shops, boutiques, and art galleries in Plettenberg Bay's town center, where you can find unique souvenirs, local crafts, and delicious cuisine. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants overlooking the bay, offering fresh seafood and other culinary delights.

9. Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve: Experience a wildlife safari at the Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve, where you can encounter a variety of game species, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinoceroses, in a malaria-free environment.

10. Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture and history of Plettenberg Bay by visiting historical landmarks such as the Old Timber Shed, exploring the local markets, or attending cultural events and festivals that showcase the vibrant heritage of the region.

With its stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and wide range of activities, Plettenberg Bay offers something for every traveler to enjoy along the Garden Route in the Western Cape of South Africa.