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ATTRACTION GUIDE · GARDEN ROUTE

Plettenberg Bay

A Garden Route beach town of golden sands, dolphins, whales and the Robberg peninsula.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps

Time needed: Half a day
Entry: Free (Robberg reserve paid)
Best time: September–April
Area: Plett

Golden beaches and dolphin spotting.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape

From Knysna: About 30 minutes by car.
Robberg: Robberg Nature Reserve has coastal hikes and a seal colony.
Marine: Boat trips to see dolphins, seals and seasonal whales.

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The story of Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay ("Plett") is known for its wide sandy beaches and calm bay. The Robberg peninsula, a nature reserve with rocks dating back millions of years, protects its southern side.

Southern right whales visit the bay in winter and spring, and dolphins are seen year-round.

Best time to visit

Best season

September–April for beaches; July–November for whales.

Best time of day

Morning for hikes.

December

Very busy with holidaymakers.

Tips before you go

Join a marine safari for dolphins and whales.
Hike the Robberg peninsula trail.
Book a marine safari to see dolphins and whales.

Best hotels near Plettenberg Bay

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Pezula Nature Retreat

Clifftop retreat above Knysna.

See prices

The Plettenberg

Hotel overlooking Plettenberg Bay.

See prices

All hotels near Plettenberg Bay

What's around Plettenberg Bay

Robberg Nature ReserveCoastal hikes.
MonkeylandPrimate sanctuary.
Birds of EdenFree-flight aviary.
TsitsikammaNational park 1 hour east.

Questions travellers ask

When can I see whales?

July to November.

Is Robberg hard?

There are short and long routes.

Are there sanctuaries?

Yes, Monkeyland and Birds of Eden.