Commonly referred to by locals as Plett, Plettenberg Bay is a coastal town with some of the most spectacular coastline and indigenous forests in South Africa. Sparkling white sand, craggy mountains, and cerulean oceans all converge close to where the Eastern Cape meets its western counterpart. The ocean is a major draw in this region. People come from all over to swim, surf, fish, and go boating.

The town is a stop on South Africa’s famous Garden Route, which combines lush vineyards, jewel-toned protea, and rugged coastline. Plettenberg Bay has two main beaches: Keurbooms Beach to the north, known for its crystal-blue lagoon, and the Robberg Peninsula to the south, distinguished by its steep cliffs and rocky shores. After a day on the water, hop in a car and cruise along to Knysna for a scenic boat trip or take a ride to Mossel Bay for a picturesque round of golf.

An ideal time to book accommodations in Plettenberg Bay is between December and April. This period is South Africa’s summer and early fall, and temperatures in Plettenberg Bay are at their balmiest with beautiful ocean breezes to match. The evenings are not as chilly as they are in winter, and the ocean is warm and perfect for surfing. Annual events to watch out for during these times include an inflatable boat competition and the Watercourse History Festival in February, which hosts a wide variety of presentations and showcases South African history, from ancient archaeology to artifacts and archived videos and photographs.

Robberg Nature Reserve

Robberg Nature Reserve is a coastal World Heritage site famed for its rock formations — some dating back as far as 120 million years ago to the time of the supercontinent Gondwanaland — and its caves, which are home to artifacts and remnants of Stone Age inhabitants. The reserve also boasts striking coastal vistas and a scenic trail for hiking.

Old Nick Village

What was once a 19th-century farm complex now houses a shopping center, gardens, and an event space. Most of the buildings that make up the complex were built in the 1880s, but the insides have been lovingly restored into beautiful, sustainable shops where local artists sell their work. You’ll find unique home decor, contemporary African-style clothing and accessories, pottery, and African artwork. At the Mungo Mill, you can learn about and purchase South African textiles that are made on site.

Lookout Beach

Lookout Beach is one of Plettenberg’s best-known beaches, not only for the sapphire blue waters of the Keurbooms Lagoon but also for its circular beach-walking trail and its gently sloping sand dunes. Lookout Beach is also home to one of the most acclaimed restaurants in the Plettenberg area, which serves up stunning fresh seafood.