Stretched along the pristine shores of the Garden Route in the Western Cape, Plettenberg Bay is one of South Africa’s favourite playgrounds. Take your pick of self-catering Plettenberg Bay accommodation and explore the area at your own pace.

The beaches are popular with families and water sports enthusiasts. Then there’s wine tasting, wildlife experiences, outdoor adventures and so many things to do in Plettenberg Bay. Visit the Robberg Nature Reserve to the south to hike the trails around the rocky peninsula, and explore the Stone Age Nelson Bay Caves. You certainly won’t run out of entertainment in this welcoming seaside town!

Things to do in Plettenberg Bay

If you visit in the late summer, you can enjoy whale watching.
Go wine tasting at one of the renowned wine estates in the area.
Visit Monkeyland, Birds of Eden and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary.
If you’re brave enough, go bungee jumping from the Bloukrans Bridge.
Kayak along the Keurbooms River.
Go on safari in the Plettenberg Game Reserve.
Set sail on a charter ocean cruise to see whales and dolphins up close.
Go on a treetop canopy tour in the Tsitsikamma Forest.

Ready for a family adventure? Get in touch with us to book your preferred or self-catering Plettenberg Bay accommodation and let’s make your beach holiday dreams a reality.

Explore South Africa's other sleepy coastal towns with Thompsons Holidays in 2025. We've got Knysna holiday packages, Hermanus holiday packages, and Jeffreys Bay holiday packages

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

Plett enjoys warm, pleasant summers and mild, sunny winters, making it a fantastic year-round destination.

Getting there

Driving from Cape Town, the journey will take you approximately 6 hours via the N2.
From nearby Port Elizabeth, you’re only 2.5 hours away, via the N2.
Drive time from Johannesburg is approximately 11 hours, but you can fly into George Airport or Port Elizabeth Airport and rent a car from there.
Flight time from Johannesburg to George: 1 hour, 40 minutes.
Flight time from Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour, 35 minutes.

What must I pack?

The weather is mild for most of the year, but it can get cold and wet in the winter. Always keep a light windbreaker on hand. .
Don’t forget sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses for summer holidays.
Always travel with a mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
Your camera (or just use your phone).

What can I do to become a responsible traveler?

Be water-wise. The Western Cape is a water-scarce region. Be mindful and sparing with your water usage.
Support the local economy. Buy local food, souvenirs and support local artisans where possible at markets and pop-up stalls.

Safety tips