Is a beach just a beach? Is one beach much like any other? Although, maybe, because Plettenberg Bay has so many incredible beaches to choose from, we don’t think so at all! Ask anyone who has visited Plett which beach is their favourite and you’ll get differing opinions: some people like snorkeling off Central Beach, others like to socialise on Robberg Five and more still love the quiet splendor of Keurboomsstand.
In celebration of Plett’s nomination as Africa’s Leading Beach Destination in the World Travel Awards, we’re sharing Plett’s five Blue Flag beaches, for your comparison – make sure to visit them all on your Plett breakaway! To achieve Blue Flag status, 33 main criteria covering four aspects of coastal management have to be met. These four aspects are water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management, and safety and services. The Western Cape has achieved the highest number of Blue Flag sites, with 29 beaches, eight boats and four of the five Blue Flag marinas falling in the our beautiful province.
Nature’s Valley
Nature’s Valley claim to fame is that its the end of the famous Otter Trail and it’s also nestled between two national parks, making it a secluded paradise perfect for birders, nature lovers and romantics. The hikes around Nature’s Valley are some of the best in the area and adventurous hikers will want to visit the magnificent Salt River mouth. The beach is outside the shelter of the bay, so check sea conditions before swimming, surfing and bodyboarding. Luckily, the adjoining lagoon is perfect for paddling, swimming and strolling.
The Dunes Beach
The latest feather in Plett’s “Blue Flag” cap is The Dunes Beach. Located near the Dunes Resort and Hotel, guests have easy access to a beach that’s known for kilometres of white sand and dolphins frolicking in the surf, this is a beach you’ll want to visit, especially during whale season!
Keurbooms Beach
Aaaah, lovely Keurbooms – perfect for a nice, long stroll and the reward of a cool drink or warm coffee at Enrico’s Restaurant waiting at the end of it! Keurbooms is characterised by a rocky shoreline and the popular Arch Rock archway, which is made for photos! Keurbooms Beach is another popular whale and dolphin watching spot.
Lookout Beach
Lookout Beach has a colourful history. Ask anyone who has been visiting Plett over the last half century and many of their holiday memories will have been made on Lookout Beach. Ice cream cones, surfboards and sunscreen; first loves, first surfs, first taste of the sea – it all happened on Lookout Beach. Today, it’s still a popular surf spot and the Lookout Deck serves up some of the best seafood in Plett, with a perfect Plett ocean view.
Robberg Five Beach
In summer, there is no better place to see and be seen than Robberg Beach. The beach is dotted with colourful umbrellas, toddlers and sandcastles, this is South African summer at its height. In the quieter months, Robberg is a popular beach for walkers and runners, as they take in the stunning views across the bay to Robberg and the Tsitsikamma Mountains. This is a favourite beach, year round. As with all beaches in the area, Robberg can be known for rip currents, do not swim if lifeguards aren’t present.
An honourable mention must go to Offshore Adventures, Plett’s seal swimming operator, for their Blue Flag Boat status. Get up close and personal with the playful and curious Cape Fur Seals off Robberg Peninsula; it’s a wonderful Plett adventure in our beautiful bay.