Plett’s Blue Flag Collection
Picture this…You’ve spent hours on the road, passing padstals and reluctant to make any detours all with one destination in mind: sun-kissed Plettenberg Bay, or Plett. Aaaah, that summer feeling!
This coastal town on the Garden Route seems to operate under a different set of rules: warm, aquamarine waters sheltered by the wide sweep of Robberg Peninsula, boutique winelands, dense indigenous forests, adventures of every kind, and kilometres of impossibly beautiful beaches. Plett doesn’t just have nice beaches; it boasts an award-winning collection of them, year after year securing the prestigious international Blue Flag Status—a global benchmark confirming that these shores, from the warm sands of Robberg 5 to the wild stretch of Nature’s Valley, are among the cleanest, safest, and best-managed coastlines in the world.
Bitou Municipality has retained Plett’s Blue Flag Status for six of its world-class beaches for the coming summer. Robberg 5 and Lookout beaches have received this coveted accreditation for 16 and 11 years, respectively – a testament to the town’s dedication to conservation and providing the best beach experience for visitors. You could spend an entire holiday simply exploring from shore to shore, as each offers a unique experience that goes far beyond a simple dip in the sea—from building sandcastles and surfing waves to sunrise strolls and spotting dolphins, you’ll find it on Plett’s premier sandy six.
In summer, Robberg 5, Lookout and Singing Kettle buzz with summer excitement – see and be seen with these gorgeous beaches as a backdrop – it’s selfie central. The wilder Keurboomstrand, Nature’s Valley and The Dunes offer a quieter, more laid-back coastal experience.
And how’s this for an added advantage? Plett’s Blue Flag prestige isn’t limited to the coastline – the Blue Flags fly on the water, too! Marine eco-tourism operator Offshore Adventures holds two of only seven accredited boats in South Africa offering more than a simple boat ride: they provide a front-row seat to the wonders of the Southern Cape coastline, delivered with responsible tourism.
Coastal Cues
- Whichever beautiful beaches you decide to visit, please swim only when there are lifeguards on duty.
- While Plett is known for its summer buzz – and with good reason – the cooler months offer a uniquely natural experience. Whale Season runs from June – November offering an incredible frenzy of marine life sightings including whales, sharks, birds, seals, and dolphins.
- Winter also plays host to the annual Plett Ocean Festival and Marine Science Symposium. The twin cores of the festival are the popular Wedge Classic surf competition and the Plett Marine Science Symposium, while the festival features rock pool excursions, scuba diving, coastal hikes, pelagic birding, ocean-themed art and more.
- Plett’s conservation goes beyond Blue Flags as it is also recognised as one of only 11 global Whale Heritage Areas and has been designated a Mission Blue Hope Spot.
Plett’s multiple Blue Flags are a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving its natural attractions. This combination of a pristine coastline, accredited eco-tourism, and a year-round appeal makes Plett a truly enticing coastal destination.
Written by Janet Middleton for Plett Tourism in ROVE magazine
