Photo of Plettenberg Bay

About Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay, or ‘Plett’ as the locals know it, is a popular tourist town nestled along the farthest reaches of the famous Garden Route. Its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, thriving culinary scene, and a long list of outdoor activities mean it is a popular destination amongst both South African and international tourists. Our recommendations will show you the best places to stay in Plettenberg Bay, from award-winning five-star favourites, to independent boutique properties, to ensure there's something for everyone and every budget along this coastal gem.

Originally named 'Bahia Formosa', or 'beautiful bay' by early Portuguese explorers, it's easy to see why travellers and holiday makers have been venturing to Plettenberg for centuries. Overlooked by the Robberg peninsula, it is an area of incredible beauty, vibrant marine life, and historic caves. Once an integral stopover for ships travelling from Britain to India, today it is one of the favourite stops along the Garden Route.

What not to miss:

  • Hiking the rocky Robberg Peninsula, past a colony of African seals, sandy beaches, and indigenous flora and fauna.

  • Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre is an unforgettable visit for animal lovers and also raises some important conservation conversations, creating awareness for some of Africa’s most endangered creatures.

  • Though there are plenty of strong contenders, Robberg 5 Beach is widely considered to be the ‘best’ beach.
  • Head inland, where Plett Wine Tours will take you on a stellar tour of some of the area's finest vineyards.
  • Plettenberg’s coastline is littered with a vast cave network which is filled with historic artefacts dating back to the Middle Stone Age. Explore if you dare!

Browse our selection of the best places to stay in Plettenberg Bay, and start planning your visit now.

The Best Places to stay in Plettenberg Bay

For something truly special

  • Arguably its most famous hotel, The Plettenberg Hotel occupies a prime position of coastline. This five star property boasts exquisitely designed rooms all with ocean views, an indulgent spa and superb fine dining.
  • If you want a truly luxurious beachfront stay, then look no further than The Old Rectory, which includes its own private beach access. Elegant interiors, a saltwater pool surrounded by lush gardens and a spoiling spa complete the picture.
  • One of the most exclusive stays along the Garden Route, Kurland Hotel provides unmatched seclusion in its 12 Cape Dutch-style villas. Individually designed suites ooze country house charm, plus there's an award winning restaurant, stunning grounds and a luxury spa.
  • Just a short drive from town, Tsala Treetop Lodge provides sumptuous treehouse accommodation for you and a special someone. Each of the suites and villas comes with plush bedrooms, sitting room, spacious bathrooms and a private deck with your own infinity pool with a view! Fabulous.

For a boutique stay

  • Lively and fun, The Bungalow is one of the trendiest spots in town and the perfect stay for the young at heart. Just seven stylish rooms with a beach-chic vibe, plus a restaurant and bar with very popular "Happy Hour".
  • Design lovers will feel very at home at Sky Villa. Boasting epic sea views it’s a sleek, chic, stay with rooms featuring fashionable fabrics, rich hues and floor to ceiling windows.

For those on a budget

  • If you’re after an intimate, great value stay, then Stableford House is the choice for you. With just two-bedrooms, guests receive attentive service at this owner-managed stay.
  • Quirky, cosy, Cornerway House is friendly on the pocket and to your pets!

Stay right on the beach

  • The Victorian Milkwood Manor occupies a unique position overlooking Keurbooms River lagoon, moments from Plettenberg Bay.

For an eco-retreat

  • A little distance from Plettenberg Bay, Villa Villekula deserves a mention for its idiosyncratic style, eco-credentials, and resident four-legged friends!
  • For the bohemian traveller, Emily Moon River Lodge’s rustic-chic interiors will hit the spot. It’s also a very green stay, surrounded by pristine landscapes.

Travel Information

  • If you want to a self-drive to explore the scenic Garden Route, visit our online partner Rentalcars
  • For the best of the weather aim to visit between November and February. Between May and September sees the coldest weather, when the coastline can be very dramatic.

Still not sure?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Plettenberg Bay

Best Hotels in Plettenberg Bay

  • Villa Villekula Plettenberg Bay 3 rooms from AU$131

    Country Escape  -  Surrounded by greenery and farmyard animals - you're not in the town here!
    Eco break  -  Built to eco standard it provides itself with all its own energy
    Great walks  -  Nature's Valley has miles of trails to be explored
    Sights nearby  -  Monkeyland Sanctuary is within walking distance
    RestaurantParking

    One of a kind. This three-bedroom, family-owned eco-hotel is inhabited by numerous animals. A peaceful place, surrounded by beautiful countryside each of its retro rooms are brimming with refurbished furnishings and bucolic views. The Villa Villekula restaurant is very popular with guests. See More

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  • The Stableford House Plettenberg Bay 2 rooms from AU$141

    Value chic  -  Great value, stylish accommodation. Adults only.
    Great walks  -  Robberg Nature Reserve has miles of great walks
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Restrictions on children  -  Adult only
    Swimming PoolParkingNo pets

    This charming owner managed guest house has just two-bedrooms but bundles of charm. With a sunny terrace, inviting pool, and beautifully decorated rooms its a very comfortable stay. Tea and coffee making facilities are available, as is a delicious English Breakfast each morning. See More

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  • Alkantmooi Private Nature Reserve Plettenberg Bay 9 rooms from AU$173

    Back to Nature  -  Luxury accommodation on the boarders of Keurbooms Nature Conservation Park
    Sights nearby  -  From monkeys to elephants, wolves, birds, and many of 'The Big Five' - there are numerous animal sanctuaries with a 15km drive
    Kayaking  -  Along the Bitou River
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Sleek and stylish accommodation right on the edge of Keurbooms Nature Conservation Park. Its secluded location allows for stunning views and total tranquillity. Individual suites and cottages include kitchens, dining, and living areas, perfect for families. A bounty of sights in the area. See More

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  • Edenbrook Country Manor Plettenberg Bay (Plettenberg Bay,) 20 rooms from AU$175

    Country Escape  -  Experience 'The Good Life' in this historic country manor
    Local markets  -  Held every Saturday, Harkerville Farmers Market is popular amongst locals and tourists
    Birdwatching  -  Edenbrook's forty acres are home to some rare birdlife, including the Knysna Loerie
    Great walks  -  Along the pristine Robberg Beach, just 15-minutes drive away
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    The Garden of Eden! Nestled amidst 40 acres of manicured grounds, this colonial-style accommodation provides a most elegant stay in rural Edenbrook. Each of its rooms is filled with antique furnishings, complemented by modern bathrooms with roll-top baths. Excellent breakfast, a pool, and spa. See More

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  • Cornerway House Plettenberg Bay 7 rooms from AU$184

    Beach Life  -  Just a short walk to the famous golden sands of Robberg Beach
    Romantic Break  -  Cosy couples stay (well-behaved children allowed)
    Great walks  -  The 'Blue Flag' awarded Robberg Beach is a pristine 7 minute walk away
    Surfing  -  Pick up a board and a cup of coffee at Surf Cafe
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    With quaint and colourful interiors, this pet-friendly hotel is within walking distance of town and the beach. Dotted around picturesque cottage gardens each of its characterful rooms provide a comfortable stay. Guests can soak up the sun by the saltwater pool and look forward to a superb breakfast. See More

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  • Anlin Beach House Plettenberg Bay 5 rooms from AU$199

    Beach Life  -  A stone's throw from the beautiful Plettenberg Bay
    Sailing  -  Ocean Blue Adventures takes dolphin, whale, and sea watching tours
    Great walks  -  Robberg Nature Reserve has miles and miles of scenic walks
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    You couldn't ask for a more convenient location, moments from the beach. Choose from self-catering apartments to B&B accommodation. Contemporary style rooms include tea and coffee making facilities and en-suite bathrooms. A continental breakfast is served. See More

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  • Hunter's Country House Plettenberg Bay 19 rooms from AU$222

    Families  -  Family suites and more activities than you could complete in a month of Sundays
    Country Escape  -  A luxury lodge nestled in some of The Western Cape's most beautiful countryside
    Romantic Break  -  Sumptuous suites and romantic dining make this a perfect couples escape
    Sights nearby  -  Birds of Eden is the world's largest 'free flight' sanctuary
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    Unequivocally luxurious, Hunter's Country House is a fine example of a wilderness lodge. In the rooms, no detail has been overlooked. Capacious four-posters beds command the room and lavish bathrooms include roll-top baths. Family cottages include their own pool. Fine dining, spa treatments. Divine. See More

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  • Aquavit Plettenberg Bay 5 rooms from AU$254

    Romantic Break  -  A great stay for couples with plenty of nature based activities
    Great walks  -  Robberg Beach is a secluded beach, perfect for long walks
    Sailing  -  Take a private boat to spot whales and seals
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    Boasting panoramic views of the Bahia Formosa Bay and the Tsitsikamma Mountains, sit out on the terrace and watch whales passing by in the season. Bright and airy interiors make the most of those vistas and an excellent breakfast is served out on the terrace. See More

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  • Milkwood Manor Plettenberg Bay 12 rooms from AU$257

    Romantic Break  -  Catering to adults, it's a very sophisticated stay
    Kayaking  -  Explore the Bitou River on one of the hotel's kayaks, available to use free of charge
    Great walks  -  Walk on down to the pristine Hobie Beach
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    One of Plettenberg Bay's most popular stays this 12-bedroom Georgian manor house enjoys a stunning location, overlooking Keurbooms River lagoon; ensconced by the Tsitsikamma Mountains. A full English or continental breakfast is served out on the terrace of their Lemon Grass restaurant. See More

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  • Buffelsdam Country House Plettenberg Bay 7 rooms from AU$263

    Local exploring  -  Equidistant between the popular Plettenberg Bay and Nature's Valley attractions, there is plenty to explore
    Country Escape  -  Surrounded by the beautiful bucolic scenery this hotel provides a relaxing rural stay
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Lakeside
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    An elegant country retreat this seven-bedroom property boasts a showstopper of an infinity pool as well as wrap-around views. Each of its rooms is modern and spacious with tea-and-coffee-making facilities and large bathrooms. Nature's Valley and Plettenberg Bay are a short drive away. A great stay. See More

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  • The Bungalow Plettenberg Bay 7 rooms from AU$282

    Local exploring  -  Stylish and fun accommodation in a great location
    Surfing  -  Learn to surf or stand up paddle board: a great way to keep fit
    Diving  -  'Offshore Adventures' provides seal and shark diving tours
    Kayaking  -  Tke out a sea kayak and paddle in search for dolphins
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    A super stylish and fun guest house. Rooms are comprised of both dorm and private accommodation - but the entire hotel breathes a youthful spirit. Modern beach-chic interiors, a great restaurant and very popular 'Happy Hour' makes it a winning cocktail. Walking distance from Plettenberg Bay. See More

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  • Southern Cross Beach House Plettenberg Bay 5 rooms from AU$282

    Beach Life  -  The property's verandah looks directly over the beach where whales can sometimes be spotted
    Great walks  -  Set out from the property and take long walks along the beach
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Disabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    This rose-covered white-wood colonial structure enjoys far-reaching views of the ocean. Quaint rooms, decorated in soft hues, floral motifs, and filled with antique pieces and wicker furnishings. Tea out on the terrace is utterly relaxing, followed by a stroll to the beach. Bliss. See More

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  • Sky Villa Plettenberg Bay 14 rooms from AU$319

    Romantic Break  -  Lavish suites, spa services, and fine dining - great for couples
    Sights nearby  -  Walking distance from bars and restaurants
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Sprawling suites are decorated in fashionable prints and deep hues. Boasting far reaching views across the bay there is fine dining at the restaurant and an inviting bar serving tempting cocktails. Take in the pool, spa, or begin the day with a session in the gym followed by an indulgent breakfast. See More

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  • Fynbos Ridge Country House Plettenberg Bay 5 rooms from AU$323

    Families  -  With self-catering options available, family cottages, and plenty of activities close by - all ages will love this
    Sights nearby  -  Located on the edge of the Fynbos Ridge Private Nature Reserve
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Full of character
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A classic example of a Cape-Dutch style home, this property offers idyllic country living. Both B&B and self-catering options are available but with home-made bread on the menu in the morning, we'd recommend the former. Spacious rooms feature modern bathrooms and pastoral views. A peaceful stay. See More

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  • An Ocean Watch Guest House Plettenberg Bay 6 rooms from AU$329

    Romantic Break  -  Couples love this place with its fine dining and seaviews
    Great walks  -  Down to Hobie Beach with its bars and restaurants
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    Six charming guestrooms, decorated in nautical hues and themes, boast beautiful sea views. An excellent breakfast, of fresh fruits, pastries, and a full English breakfast, is served. Spend an afternoon lounging by the infinity pool, or take a walk into town, with its numerous bars and restaurants. See More

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  • The Robberg Beach Lodge Plettenberg Bay 29 rooms from AU$441

    Beach Life  -  With its own private walkway to the beach and unspoilt views, it's the perfect beach break
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll down to Plettenberg Bay
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Bright and contemporary, enjoying far-reaching views across Plettenberg Bay. Choose from doubles, family suites, and cottage accommodation. Light-filled rooms are decorated in nautical hues of sand and sea. All include tea and coffee making machines and ensuite bathrooms. Just a walk from the beach. See More

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  • Periwinkle Lodge Plettenberg Bay 5 rooms from AU$513

    Beach Life  -  Nautical palettes, balconies that open up onto the ocean: you can't forget that you're right on the sea here
    Great walks  -  Along the seemingly endless Robberg Beach
    Kayaking  -  on the Bitou River
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningSpaSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A modern hotel moments from the ocean is perfect for couples and families. Spacious suites are decorated in bright and airy nautical palettes, the best boast unspoilt sea views. An airy living room is a perfect place to relax with a book or soak up the sun in the infinity pool. Very stylish. See More

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  • Emily Moon River Lodge Plettenberg Bay 10 rooms from AU$524

    Kayaking  -  Hire kayaks and set out along the Piesang River
    Great walks  -  Along the endless Robberg Beach
    Fishing  -  On the Bitou River
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    Utterly charming. Emily Moon River Lodge is filled with Indian, African, and Balinese interiors. This eclectic stay provides guests with a magical hideaway on the banks of the Piesang River. Open fires, al fresco dining, and home-cooked food all make this a winning stay. Outdoor activities abound. See More

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  • The Plettenberg Hotel Plettenberg Bay 35 rooms from AU$708

    Romantic Break  -  The jewel in Plettenberg Bay's crown, this luxurious hotel is a treat for couples
    Sailing  -  Ocean Blue provides whale, seal, and dolphin watching excursions
    Sights nearby  -  Bloukrans bungee jump is the world’s highest at 216m
    Great walks  -  Down the path to Lookout Beach
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Providing Plettenberg Bay's ultimate five-star stay, this hotel pulls out all the stops. All of its exquisitely decorated rooms, boast unrivalled sea views. There is an indulgent spa, not one but two pools, fine dining, and plenty of activities to keep all ages happy. One of our top picks in Plett. See More

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  • Kurland Hotel Plettenberg Bay 12 rooms from AU$836

    Country Escape  -  Horse riding and rural tracks: Kurland Hotel lets its guests experience country living
    Families  -  There is so much to get packed into your stay here. Children will love it!
    Great walks  -  Along Natures Valley Beach - an area of incredible rugged beauty
    Sights nearby  -  Knysna Elephant Sanctuary and Monkeyland are just 2km away
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Luxury guesthouse located in The Crags with excellent equestrian facilities in the area. Individually decorated rooms are filled to the rafters with antique pieces, mix-and-match fabrics, ornate lamps and enormous beds. There's a spa and an inviting outdoor pool, plus acres to be explored. See More

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  • The Old Rectory, Plettenberg Bay Plettenberg Bay (Plettenberg Bay, 6600,) 36 rooms from AU$843

    Hideaway  -  Inspires long alfresco lunches of just-caught seafood and local wines, spa sessions and walks along the white-sand beach
    Great walks  -  Plettenberg Bay is surrounded by some of the Garden Route’s most beautiful and wildlife-rich landscape
    Swimming Pool  -  The saltwater pool is at the center of the garden, surrounded by decking and shade-giving trees
    Spa  -  The Sanctuary Spa is in a historic, thatch-roofed building
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A beachfront boutique hotel with simple yet elegant design and interiors furnished with stylish decor and artworks. Featuring pretty gardens surrounding the pool, easy access to beaches and an indulgent spa. Spend days enjoying leisurely walks and seaside activities. A relaxing stay. See More

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  • Tsala Treetop Lodges Plettenberg Bay 16 rooms from AU$1300

    Romantic Break  -  Luxury suites, fine dining, enveloped in nature: it's the perfect romantic retreat
    Families  -  Kids will love the tree-top accommodation as well as the bounty of activities
    Hideaway  -  Magical treetop accommodation makes for the perfect hideaway
    Sailing  -  Whale, dolphin and seal watching from Plettenberg Bay
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParking

    Utterly magical treetop accommodation just 10km from Plettenberg Bay. Perfect for romantics and families alike, these luxury suites offer luxury at new heights. Sumptuous interiors, indulgent dining, and plenty of activities nearby. Enjoy massage in-room as you gaze out across the canopy. Bliss. See More

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