Experiences in Plettenberg Bay | Things to Do & Local Activities
Experiences in Plettenberg Bay are endless, from stunning coastal walks and wildlife encounters to outdoor adventures and delicious local cuisine. Learn more about the area on Plettenberg Bay Tourism. This beautiful coastal town on South Africa’s Garden Route offers something exciting for every type of traveller.
Why Visit Plettenberg Bay?
Plettenberg Bay is a beautiful coastal town on South Africa’s Garden Route, known for its unspoiled beaches and relaxed seaside atmosphere.
With its scenic coastline, warm climate, and vibrant holiday energy, it’s one of the country’s most popular destinations during the summer months. Visitors from around the world come to enjoy its natural beauty and laid-back charm.
Just minutes from The Long Story Boutique Guesthouse, you’ll find Lookout Beach and Robberg Beach — both perfect for swimming, surfing, and long walks along the shore. At low tide, you might even spot the unique pansy shells that are native to this coastline.
Beyond the beaches, Plettenberg Bay offers a wide range of experiences. From kayaking and hiking to horseback riding and marine adventures, there’s something for every type of traveller.
Outdoor Experiences in Plettenberg Bay
Discover the natural beauty of Plettenberg Bay through scenic coastal walks, pristine beaches, and unforgettable ocean experiences. From sunrise hikes to relaxing beach days, there’s something for every nature lover.
Robberg Peninsula Nature Reserve Walking Trail
There are endless things to do in Plettenberg Bay during your stay with us. A visit to Robberg Nature Reserve is a must-do while you’re here! You can explore the reserve by foot or bike.
The three circular routes on offer vary in terms of distance and difficulty. They range from a 30-minute stroll to a four to five hour hike. Regardless of the route, visitors must always wear hiking shoes, sunblock and hats. Water and warm clothing is essential, as the weather can change suddenly.
Robberg Nature Reserve is a magical place, home to a kaleidoscope of topography and biodiversity. Whether you are a keen birdwatcher or a casual observer, this reserve has much to offer the nature-lover.
Due to its diversity and abundant birdlife, Robberg was declared a South African National Park in 1981. Covering approximately 22 square kilometres, Robberg boasts the highest density of breeding seabirds in Africa—with over 3 million little penguins living on the rocks below the cliffs. In addition to seabirds, it is also home to Cape fur seals and Southern right whales that stop here from time to time during their migration from Antarctica to warmer waters.
In recent years, Robberg has been developed as a tourist destination with a variety of activities available for visitors. Birdwatching is one of these activities and can be done at Robberg Nature Reserve’s self-guided trails.
The self-guided trail at Robberg Nature Reserve takes you up steep inclines and descents through different habitats while providing insights into the lives of Cape wildlife. Highlights include sightings of wild animals like eland, baboons and vervet monkeys, sea lions and much more.
Adventure Activities in Plettenberg Bay
For those seeking excitement, Plettenberg Bay offers a variety of adventure activities, from kayaking along the coastline to cycling scenic routes and enjoying a round of golf.
Sea Kayaking and Boat Tours
View seals, dolphins, and whales during your stay at. You can even swim with the seals.
Go snorkeling to see the abundant marine life below the surface. There’s also plenty of opportunities to explore at our guesthouse: take a walk along the coastline and get an amazing view of the bay. Or head inland and explore our surrounding forests and mountains – be sure to stop off at Waterfall Tsitsikamma!
Mountain Biking / Cycling
Just cycle around town – When staying at the Long Story guest house we have 3 complimentary bikes that are included in your rate.
If you have a passion for mountain biking check out some of these popular routes to try out on your stay: Ivivi Singletrack, Wunderlust, Berm Blast, Badger route and much more.
Golf Courses
There are 2 courses in the area, Plettenberg Bay Country Club and Goose Valley. There are also courses in Knysna 30 min drive away. Goose Valley Golf Course offers a discount when you make a booking through the guest house.
Food & Dining Experiences in Plettenberg Bay
Enjoy the vibrant food scene in Plettenberg Bay, where fresh seafood, local flavours, and relaxed coastal dining create memorable culinary experiences.
Restaurants
Plettenberg Bay has no shortage of quality restaurants serving up some of the finest food and flavours on the Garden Route. Some popular places include:
- Emily Moon and Simons bar (pizza restaurant) – Has live music on Fridays
- Fat Fish – Best fish ever
- Barrington’s – Offers beer tastings
- 1989 – Best burgers in town
- Enricos – Best venue and Italian food
- Ski boat club – The local fish restaurant right on BI beach
- Bungalow – Great sushi and right on BI beach
- The Grand in town
Wine Estates
There are a few lovely wine estates where you can enjoy either tasting of wines or have a lovely lunch in the vineyards. These are some of the top estates to check out: Bramon Wine Estate, Packwood Country and Wine Estate, Newstead Wines, Loadstone Wines, Plettenvale Wine Estate and Kay & Monty Vineyards. Bramon, Newstead, Loadstone and many more of these estates offer lunch and wine tastings.
Wildlife Experiences in Plettenberg Bay
Get up close to incredible wildlife in Plettenberg Bay, where ethical sanctuaries and natural habitats offer unforgettable encounters with birds, primates, and gentle giants.
Birds of Eden & Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary
The world’s largest free-flight aviary Birds of Eden is located in the Craggs ,just a short ride outside of Plett, as well as the Moneyland Primate Sanctuary and the Elephant Sanctuary.
Day Trips from Plettenberg Bay
Just a short drive from Plettenberg Bay, Tsitsikamma National Park offers breathtaking coastal scenery, indigenous forests, and unforgettable hiking trails along the Garden Route. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and exploring dramatic coastal landscapes.
Ready to book your adventure? Check availability and rates today.