Plettenberg Bay

Drive half an hour from Knysna, and you'll reach Plettenberg Bay. Magnificent, scenic and charming, the town is fondly referred to as 'Plett' or 'Plet' by locals. Plettenberg has a natural beauty that is enhanced by some of the finest weather in the country.

With a variety of activities across the year, Plettenberg Bay is the ultimate getaway. Adrenaline junkies enjoy surfing, hiking, horseback riding and other activities. Gastronomes delight in the unique dishes flavoured by the cultures and traditions of the area. For the wine lover, the Plett Winelands route takes one on a journey through 18 wine farms.

Plettenberg has become a sought-after area. No longer just a holiday town, it has experienced a rising trend in permanent residency. Families, professionals and retirees are flocking to the town for all the comforts and pleasure that come with Plettenberg living.

A brief history of the area

Plettenberg Bay's history can be traced back to 120 000 BC. Stone Age Man inhabited two caves - the Nelson Bay Cave and the Matjies River Rock Shelter - which are active excavation sites. The area saw many Portuguese and Dutch visitors to the area. It was referred to as 'Bahia das Alagoas', meaning 'Bay of the Lagoons' and 'Bahia Formosa' meaning 'Beautiful Bay'. In 1778, Baron Joachim Ammena van Plettenberg, the Governor of the Cape of Good Hope, spent a night in Plettenberg. He decided to name the bay after himself; a name which remains today.

Climate

It's almost always a good day in Plettenberg Bay. The area has a warm and temperate climate. The average annual temperature is 16.6 °C. This makes for pleasant living. You can also expect clean, crisp air due to constant rainfall throughout the year. The rain helps Plettenberg Bay stay lush and scenic. Love the sun? You'll be happy to know Plettenberg Bay gets an average of 7-8 hours of sunshine in winter.

Schools in the area

Plettenberg Bay schools prioritise your child's success. There are several in the area with great reputations.

Primary schools include Plettenberg Bay Primary School, Raphaeli Waldorf School and Formosa Primary School.

High schools include Plettenberg Bay Secondary School, Greenwood Bay College (Grade 000 to Grade 12) and Wittedrift High School.

Healthcare in the area

Plettenberg Bay has a range of healthcare facilities. You can get medical care at the Mediclinic Plettenberg Bay, Plettenberg Bay Town Clinic and the Plett Sports Clinic. You can also consult a general practitioner, dentist or optometrist in the area. If you have a pet, Plettenberg Bay Veterinary Clinic and the Marine Way Animal Hospital will keep them healthy.

Shopping centres

Your Plettenberg Bay retail experience will be a pleasant one. There are a wealth of centres to shop for essentials or indulgences. Plettenberg Bay Mall is a good stop for groceries, banking services, clothing or a haircut. Discerning shoppers will be impressed by The Market Square Shopping Centre. It has over 50 stores like Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Mr Price Home, Clicks, Pep, and more. For a quaint experience, head to Lookout Centre. You'll enjoy a relaxing browse through the aisles with a magnificent view of the sea. Melville's Corner has a well-reviewed Superspar, and is conveniently located on the main street.

Distance from key points (Airport/CBD)

The driving distance from Langebaan to Cape Town International Airport is 102 km. This will take you roughly an hour and a half to reach your destination with an average speed of 80 km/h.

Restaurants

Looking for a mouthwatering meal? Plettenberg Bay eateries will have you asking for seconds!

You can eat at Nguni Restaurant, Nineteen 89, The Golden Palm, Ouland Royale and Surf Cafe, to name a few options. All of these restaurants have earned positive feedback for their menus, ambience and service.

For a convenient stop, there are plenty of fast food outlets. These include Steers, King Pie and KFC.

Special attractions

1. Beaches

Plettenberg's tourism is built around its beaches. At Central Beach, you can enjoy a refreshing stroll with your loved ones. This iconic family beach is perfect for swimming, bodyboarding and jet-skiing. You may also spot dolphins or whales. Robberg Beach is another popular visit. It's well maintained, safe and close to restaurants. Lookout Beach is a lovely spot with smooth, rolling waves breaking against pristine shores.

2. Goose Valley Golf Club

If you're looking for a stellar golfing experience, Goose Valley Golf Club won't let you down. You'll enjoy a Gary Player-designed 72-par, 18-hole signature golf course. The course features impressive views of Keurbooms Lagoon, the Indian Ocean, the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the Robberg Peninsula.

3. Birds of Eden

This award-winning bird sanctuary houses 220 different types of birds. With its lush foliage, colourful birdlife and symphony of sounds, it's truly worth a visit.

4. Plett Puzzle Park

This is an affordable and fun outing for the whole family. The park includes a 3D maze, forest walk puzzle and coffee and puzzle gift shop.

5. Monkeyland

Explore a primate sanctuary that lets you get up close to these beguiling creatures. Your tour guide will share their knowledge of the various monkeys, apes and gibbons that live there.

6. Global Village

This is possibly the best place to go present shopping in Plettenberg Bay. The shop here has an assortment of curios, gifts, clothing, art and other treasures. The garden cafe will refresh you after your shopping.

Make Plettenberg Bay your home. Let it be your story.

Sun, sea, sand - what more could you want? This gorgeous town can be your permanent playground. Invest in Plettenberg Bay with our local Seeff team.