Trip to Plettenberg Bay, South Africa: how to get there, how many days and when to go

Plettenberg Bay – Cabo Ocidental Destination Garden Route about 520 km from Cidade do Cabo

How to get there

Aeroporto de George (GRJ) George · 95 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

From George, the arrival city, it is about 95 km via the N2, around an hour and fifteen minutes by car. From Knysna it is about 30 km. Plett has a small runway for charter flights; the nearest regular airport is George (GRJ).

How many days

Two days: one for the Robberg hike and the beach; another for the town beaches and a boat trip around the bay. Tsitsikamma is about an hour away.

When to go

Summer is the beach season and the busiest time, especially in December and January. From July to November it is common to see whales. The Robberg hike is more enjoyable outside very hot and windy days.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Yes, to reach Robberg and to follow the route. Within town the central beaches are close. Driving is on the left.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Plettenberg Bay

Morning
Robberg
Do the hike on the Robberg peninsula, preferably at low tide, passing the seal colony.
Afternoon
Central beaches
Relax on Central Beach or Lookout Beach, near the town centre.
Late afternoon
Beacon Isle
Walk along the sand to Beacon Isle and watch the sunset over the bay.
Evening
Plett town centre
Dine in town, high on the hill overlooking the bay.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Plettenberg Bay?

Hike the Robberg peninsula, enjoy the beaches, see dolphins and whales, and take boat trips around the bay.

How long from Plettenberg Bay to Tsitsikamma?

About 65 km to Storms River, roughly 50 minutes by car.

Which is Plettenberg Bay's main beach?

Central Beach, next to Beacon Isle, near the centre. Lookout and Robberg Beach are long and more exposed.

Plettenberg Bay or Knysna as a base?

Plett for beach lovers; Knysna for the lagoon, the Heads and the forest. They are 30 km apart.

Your trip to Plettenberg Bay.