Plettenberg Bay

Photo of Plettenberg Bay
Credit: Flickr user Sailing Nomad
Photo of Plettenberg Bay
Credit: Flickr user Andre@ DB
Photo of Plettenberg Bay
Credit: John Karwoski
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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.

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The best hotels in Plettenberg Bay

Villa Villekula
Villa Villekula

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $89 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
The Stableford House
The Stableford House

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $95 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Alkantmooi Private Nature Reserve
Alkantmooi Private Nature Reserve

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
  • Boutique
from $117 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Edenbrook Country Manor
Edenbrook Country Manor

Plettenberg Bay (Plettenberg Bay, )

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.

  • 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
from $118 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Cornerway House
Cornerway House

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $124 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Anlin Beach House
Anlin Beach House

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
  • Views
from $134 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hunter's Country House
Hunter's Country House

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $150 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Aquavit
Aquavit

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
  • Sea Views
from $171 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Milkwood Manor
Milkwood Manor

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
  • Restaurant
from $174 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Buffelsdam Country House
Buffelsdam Country House

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $178 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Southern Cross Beach House
Southern Cross Beach House

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
  • On the beach
  • Sea Views
from $190 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
The Bungalow
The Bungalow

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $190 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Sky Villa
Sky Villa

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • Romantic Break - Lavish suites, spa services, and fine dining - great for couples
  • Sights nearby - Walking distance from bars and restaurants
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
  • Spa
from $216 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Fynbos Ridge Country House
Fynbos Ridge Country House

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
  • Traditional
from $218 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
An Ocean Watch Guest House
An Ocean Watch Guest House

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
  • Spa
from $222 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Robberg Beach Lodge
The Robberg Beach Lodge

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
  • Restaurant
from $298 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Periwinkle Lodge
Periwinkle Lodge

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
  • Spa
from $346 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Emily Moon River Lodge
Emily Moon River Lodge

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $354 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Plettenberg Hotel
The Plettenberg Hotel

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $478 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Kurland Hotel
Kurland Hotel

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $565 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Old Rectory, Plettenberg Bay
The Old Rectory, Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay (Plettenberg Bay, 6600,)

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.

  • 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
from $575 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Tsala Treetop Lodges
Tsala Treetop Lodges

Plettenberg Bay

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.

  • 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
from $878 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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