10+ Incredible Things to Do in Plettenberg Bay [WARNING: High FOMO Levels]

Combining spectacular natural scenery, a yearly whale migration, and an award-winning wine route, Plettenberg Bay is one incredible South African town that will leave you swooning, ooohing, and probably a little drunk.

And if you’re wondering what to do in Plettenberg Bay, you’re in the right place.

From trekking through UNESCO World Heritage Sites to chasing epic viewpoints and supporting ethical wildlife sanctuaries, Plett has a little something for everyone…

…Especially those who appreciate a good glass of wine and cup of coffee.

After multiple visits over the last 5+ years, here’s my ultimate round-up and top recommendations for fun things to do in Plettenberg Bay. Below, you’ll find a healthy mix of touristy must-sees and a few more off-the-beaten path attractions.

Without further ado, here are some of the top things to do in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa!

Psst…Want more Garden Route, South Africa travel tips? Check out these other posts:

• An Epic One Week Garden Route Itinerary
• The Perfect Itinerary for an Epic South Africa Road Trip
• Hiking Robberg Reserve: Everything You Need to Know
• Hiking the Otter Trail: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know
• The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit
• 10 Unique & Fun Things to Do in Knysna, South Africa

How to Get to Plettenberg Bay in South Africa

There are two ways to get to Plettenberg Bay:

1. Organise an epic South Africa road trip.
2. Fly into George Airport (GRJ) or Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ).

If you’re leaning towards a road trip, go from Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay. But instead of taking the inland N2 route to your final destination, follow the coastal R44. 

It’s one of the most scenic roads in South Africa, looping around Gordon’s Bay, Pringle Bay, and Betty’s Bay. Stop at some of the lookout points like Dappat Se Gat and see the penguins at Stony Point if you have the time.

When it comes to Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay flights, George Airport is only a 1hr 30min drive away. There are car rental services at the airport, and I’d recommend signing up for the Avis Preferred Program to skip the line.

Read More: How To Book Cheap Flights From South Africa To Your Dream Destination

---

Epic Things to Do in Plettenberg Bay

Robberg Nature Reserve

Robberg Nature Reserve is home to one of the best day hikes in South Africa.

Hugging the peninsula, you’ll trek past ridiculously good-looking seascapes, honking (smelly) seals, massive dunes, and (if you’re lucky) you might see a Great White or two lurking in the waters below.

There are three circular hiking trails to choose from:

1. Gap (2.1 km)
2. Witsand (5.5 km)
3. Point (9.2 km)

And if the hiking scenery isn’t enough to lure you here for a day out, maybe this will:

• Robberg has rock formations more than 120 million years old.
• Robberg is a World Heritage Site and a National Monument.
• And yes, there are braai facilities. 😜

Cost: Free (if you have a Wild Card) otherwise, it’s only R50 for South Africans, making it one of the top things to do in Plettenberg Bay on a budget.

Want to stay INSIDE Robberg? Book a night at the Fountain Shack through Cape Nature and soak up the views of the spectacular Robberg Peninsula without another human in sight.

Read More: Hiking Robberg Nature Reserve: Everything You Need to Know

---

Birds of Eden

Birds of Eden is one of my favourite things to do in Plettenberg Bay. Whether I’m by myself or dragging a friend around the Garden Route with me, I ways make a pit stop here.

So what is it? Birds of Eden is a free-flight sanctuary. It’s a two-hectare dome (the largest in the world) and houses over 3,500 birds.

I highly recommend coming here first thing in the morning. As soon as those doors open, you want to be there with your camera out.

Why?

The birds are busy eating their breakfast, no kids are around to disturb the peace, and the wildlife is mostly relaxed.

Meaning, you’re going to see a lot more birds, and the light here in the mornings is pure magic *chef kiss*.

Birds of Eden is also one of the best things to do in Plettenberg Bay when it rains. As long as it’s not a heavy downpour (and you have a light rain jacket), you’ll still be able to wander around and see some of the wildlife.

---

Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary

Monkeyland is only a hop, skip, and a twirl away from Birds of Eden. It’s the world’s first free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuary and is a must-visit if you like to “move it, move it.”

None of the monkeys here are “collected”. All the primates are rescues, and the sanctuary does a fantastic job of giving them a forever home and creating a natural life.

Some of the wild animals you can see on one of the guided walks include:

• The Black and White Ruffed Lemur
• The Ringtail Lemur 
• The Black Howler Monkey 
• The Bolivian Squirrel Monkey 
• The Geoffroy’s Spider Monkey 
• The Tufter or Brown Capuchin 
• The Red-backed Bearded Saki 
• The Vervet Monkey
• The White-Handed or Lar Gibbon 

And just like its sister sanctuary, it has a few awards under its belt. 

The South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance (SAASA), which consists of Monkeyland, Birds of Eden and Jukani, are all winners of:

•  Lilizela Service Excellence Awards
• Skål International Sustainable Tourism Award
• World Responsible Tourism Award

---

Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary

Out of all three ethical sanctuaries, Jukani was the one that made me ugly cry.

I’m a massive cat person, and the stories of the cats who live here break my heart every. damn. time.

All the lions, leopards, jaguars, tigers, puma, cheetahs, caracals are rescues from people’s homes (it’s illegal to have them as pets) or circuses from around the world.

The animals are all on birth control, and the facility doesn’t support breeding at all. Its main aim is to give these large cats who have never experienced life in the wild some semblance of a normal life.

Tickets for Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and Jukani

As I mentioned earlier, all three sanctuaries are part of the same company. If you want to visit all three, you can buy a combo ticket from R560.00, which works out far cheaper than buying single tickets for each place (R320.00 each).

You don’t need to see all three places in one day. The combo tickets are valid for a couple of days, giving you the time to slot each one into your schedule without having to rush.

Plus, if the weather isn’t on your side, you have time to wait out the rain.

---

Go Whale Watching

You want whales? Plettenberg Bay has plenty.

From June to November, dozens of Humpback and Southern Right whales pass the coastal town to breed and nurse their young.

It’s one of the best things to do in Plettenberg Bay in winter. You can spot the migrating giants from the shore or book a whale watching tour to see these amazing animals up close.

But whales aren’t the only creatures you’ll see in the ocean. On your way, you might spot bottlenose dolphins and orcas swimming in the bay.

---

Tackle the Bloukrans Bridge Bungee Jump

If there is one thing you’ll NEVER catch doing, it’s bungee jumping. You couldn’t pay me enough money to willingly walk to the edge of a bridge and gooi myself off it into the abyss.

But I know there are a few of you that get a kick out of adrenaline and seek it out like a moth to a flame.

Sound like you? Then the Bloukrans bungee jump will test the steel of your nerves. It’s the world’s highest commercial Bungy, and you’ll free fall off the highest bridge in Africa!

If you do it, not only will you have my awe and respect, but you’ll join the ranks of Prince Harry, who has ticked Bloukrans off his bucket list.

---

Visit Old Nick Village

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cag6YzyqqMe/

Old Nick Village is another Plettenberg Bay attraction that’s firmly on my “need to visit every single time” list.

The main drawcard for me?

In between the galleries and artisan shops is a small crystal store, Moonstone. It’s been a fixture at Old Nick for 14-years, and I could spend hours admiring all the beautiful stones.

But besides my crystal addiction, Old Nick Village is one of the best things to do in Plettenberg Bay on a rainy day. You can visit the Mungo Weaving Mill, a pottery studio, and shop locally made art, chocolate, and more!

---

Unwind at One of the Plettenberg Bay Beaches

There’s nothing better than a lazy day at the beach during the hot summer months.

Luckily, Plettenberg Bay has some gorgeous golden sand in pristine condition. With six beaches boasting Blue Flag Status (along a coastline that’s only 35 km), you’re spoilt for choice!

• Lookout Beach: One of the most popular Plettenberg Bay beaches, especially for surfers. Stop by the Lookout Deck for a drink.

• Central Beach: The go-to beach in Plettenberg Bay. Over the summer months, expect huge crowds and the constant buzz of something going on. Central Beach is also the stage for one of the biggest events of the year, Plett Rage.

• Robberg Beach: You’ll need to go on a short hike to get here, but the gorgeous ocean views (and lack of crowds are worth it!). Located inside Robberg Nature Reserve, it’s a 5km Blue Flag Beach and is the best way to cool off from the summer heat.

• Keurboomstrand Beach: If the current at Lookout Beach is too strong for you, head to Keurboom Beach. It’s close to the Keurboomstrand Lagoon, which is perfect for all swimming levels. Come here for sunset (the views are a 12/10) and see if you can see Robberg in the distance.

• The Singing Kettle Beach: Close to the Keurbooms River, Singing Kettle is a wonderful spot to watch whales, try SUPing or wander around. Keep an eye out for Plett’s Cathedral Rock and have a drink at Enrico’s Restaurant for sundowners.

---

Go Skydiving

Heading to Plettenberg Bay in the winter? But don’t want to spend your days at sea whale watching?

Take to the skies!

Plett has one of the busiest skydiving drop zones in South Africa (and it’s not hard to see why).

You’re free-falling for 35-seconds at 200kph over a gorgeous coastline that’s a breeding ground for hundreds of dolphins, migrating whales, and orcas.

---

Explore the Plett Wine Route

The Plett Wine Route is the newest wine region in South Africa. In 2000, the first vines planted were planted by Bramon Wine Estate and their success led to a slew of new vineyards popping up.

What wines will you find in Plettenberg Bay?

The region’s cool climate makes it ideal for producing Sauvignon Blanc, Methode Cap Classique (MCC), Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

If you can, plan your trip around Plett’s annual Wine and Bubbly Festival.

Boutique Wine Farms to Visit in Plettenberg Bay:

• Bramon Wine Estate
• Anderson Vineyards
• Lodestone Wine & Olives
• Newstead Lund Family Vineyards
• Kay and Monty Vineyards
• Redford Lane Wines
• Luka Wines

---

Even More Places to Visit in Plettenberg Bay

Need to fill a few more gaps on your itinerary? Here are some extra activities to do in Plettenberg Bay:

Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve: Home to the Big 5, it’s one of the top Plettenberg Bay attractions. Stay here or book a 2-hour game drive or 2-hour horseback game reserve safari.

Swim with Seals: Searching for adventure activities in Plettenberg Bay? Go swimming with seals! Meet your divemaster on Central Beach and spend a few hours in the water around Robberg Nature Reserve swimming with Cape fur seals.

Go Canyoning: Canyoning is one of those things to do around Plettenberg Bay that you’ll sign up for in an instant once the summer heat hits. Spend an entire day jumping off cliffs, zip-lining, and swimming in mountain pools.

Whale Tail Lookout Point: Looking for things to do in Plettenberg bay for free? Come here for sunrise or sunset and see if you can spot dolphins or whales frolicking in the bay. 

Explore on Beachy Head Drive: Known as “millionaire’s drive”, it’s a scenic stretch of road along the Robberg peninsula. The scenic drive takes you past some of the most beautiful (and expensive) homes in Plett.

---

Best Day Trips from Plettenberg Bay

Don’t only stay in the Bay during your stay. Use Plett as your launch point to explore more of the Garden Route.

Here are some of the best day trips from Plettenberg Bay to bulk up your itinerary.

Knysna

Only a 30-minute drive from Plett, you can explore one of the best towns along the Garden Route.

Here are some of the best things to do in Knysna:

• Drive to the top of Knysna Heads and get a breathtaking view of Knysna and the ocean.

• Go snorkelling in the Knysna Lagoon and keep an eye out for the seahorses.

• Spend an afternoon beach hopping

Read More: Staying at Teniqua Treetops in Knysna

---

Nature’s Valley

Nature’s Valley is a must-see if you love hiking as much as Keenan loves orange soda (if you get the reference, we are BFFS now).

• Swim with gully sharks
• Hit Nature Valley’s beach
• Rent a canoe from Nature’s Valley Rest Camp
• Hike a portion of the Otter Trail
• Tackle the Salt River Mouth or Tsitsikamma hikes

---

Tsitsikamma

If I had to choose my favourite place along the Garden Route, it would be Tsitsikamma.

After returning to South Africa from teaching English in Thailand for six months, Tsitsikamma National Park was at the top of my one-month South Africa backpacking route.

The suspension bridges took over thoughts, and the wise words of Liz Lemon kept replaying in my head, “I want to go to there.”

Only an hour from Plettenberg Bay, you spend your day trip:

• Hiking the first 6km of the Otter Trail and picnicking by a waterfall.
• Booking the Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour.
• Exploring the suspension bridges.
• Kayaking up Storms River Mouth
• Signing up for a scuba diving trip

Read More: Hiking The Otter Trail in South Africa: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know

---

Where to Stay in Plettenberg Bay

Plett has something for every budget, whether you’re looking to splurge on a boutique hotel or meet other travellers at a backpackers.

Here are my top picks for accommodation in Plettenberg Bay:

• Emily Moon River Lodge: She is pricey, but she is gorgeous! Emily Moon is a four-star boutique hotel set on the banks of the Bitou River. The decor is quirky with an African flair, the views are stunning, and the food is delectable. Top tip: Take one of the kayaks out on the river for sunset!
  

• Sky Villa Boutique Hotel: Sky Villa is the perfect choice for travelling families or groups of friends who want an entire house. If it’s just the two of you, there are hotel rooms on the main property. Chill out in the two on-site pools, order room service from the downstairs restaurant, and plan a romantic night for two in the downstairs wine cellar.
  

• Wild Spirit Backpackers: There are backpackers in Plettenberg Bay (like Nothando Backpackers Lodge), but I’d urge you to travel further out and stay at Wild Spirit. It’s only a short 20-minute drive away and is a wonderful Garden Route gem. There are hiking trails from the property, and you can fall asleep to the sounds of nature rather than traffic.

---

Where to Eat in Plettenberg Bay

Plett is a small coastal town, but that doesn’t mean you have slim pickings for places to eat.

After spending so much time in the bay, these are my favourites I keep returning to every time I visit.

• Simon’s Bar at Emily Moon: Hands down one of the best places in Plettenberg Bay to watch the sunset. While you won’t have a view of the ocean, the light setting over the marshlands is spectacular. Order a pizza and Mojito from Simon’s Bar, or book a table and stay for dinner at the restaurant.
  

• Roost Cafe: Located in Old Nick’s Village, Roost Cafe is a delicious brunch spot in Plettenberg Bay. With decent WiFi and plug points, it’s a good choice for digital nomads or anyone who needs to catch up on emails before exploring Plett. Vegan and vegetarian options are available.
  

• Golden Palm: Golden Palm is the restaurant locals recommend to me in droves. If you love your Asian-inspired meals, come here for dinner and feast! Try the dim sum, poke bowls, and teriyaki.
  

• The Bungalow: Want an ocean view? Drive down to the Bungalow. Situated in mere footsteps from Hobie Beach, you can watch dolphins play in the surf while chowing down on some of the best sushi in Plettenberg Bay.
  

• Down to Earth: With no WiFi, but incredible views, Down to Earth is a reprieve from the bustling attractions in Plettenberg Bay. Located along the Bitou River and part of the Plett River Lodge, the restaurant serves up a side of tranquillity alongside a delicious cup of coffee and healthy mains.
  

• Le Fournil Bakery: If you’re in a rush and looking for a good cup of coffee and a quick breakfast, visit Le Fournil Bakery. With freshly-made croissants and decent WiFi, start your day here before jumping into your Plettenberg Bay itinerary.

---

Best Time to Visit Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay is a fantastic all-year-round destination.

But each season comes with its pros and cons for your itinerary and wallet.

• Summer: December to February is peak season for Plett. The matrics descend upon the small coastal town for Plett Rage, followed by the rest of South Africa for the end-of-year holidays. The result? High accommodation prices, full beaches, and excellent hot summer weather. If you want to avoid the festive rush, plan your trip to Plett after the kids go back to school in January.
  

• Winter: Technically, winter (June to August) is a low or shoulder season for Plett. The coastal town is in hydration, and you won’t find the huge crowds of the summer months. But if you can handle the cold temperatures and rain, you can catch the migrating whales!
  

• Spring: September to November is your last chance to see the whales until next year. You’ll have lower accommodation prices, and the temperatures are slowly warming up. However, rain is still a problem this time of year. Make sure you have a few rainy day activities in mind for a backup plan.
  

• Autumn: Autumn is a wonderful shoulder season for hikers. The day temperatures are cooler from March to May, making it perfect for those long walks through Robberg. With the summer crowds fizzling out, you can pick up good accommodation deals, as long as you avoid the busy Easter holidays.

---

What are your favourite things to do in Plettenberg Bay? Did I miss out on any good ones? Hit ya gurl up in the comments below and let me know!

---