Plettenberg Bay, located along The Garden Route, is a true gem. It possesses a unique charm, being more than a village yet not quite a town. This tranquil destination is known for its warm hospitality and distinctive allure. Originally named “Bahia Formosa” (meaning beautiful bay) by early Portuguese explorers, Plettenberg Bay is now easily accessible via well-maintained national roads, sea routes, or scheduled air flights. Affectionately referred to as “Plett” by locals, this coastal paradise boasts pristine, expansive golden beaches, a captivating rocky peninsula, enchanting lagoons and estuaries, majestic indigenous forests, and unpolluted rivers and seas. With its exceptional climate and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, Plettenberg Bay is an ideal destination for tourists seeking exploration, observation, or simply unwinding amidst its natural splendor.
By Road:
From Cape Town, head east on the N2 and cover a distance of around 500km, which should take you approximately 6 hours. If you’re starting from Port Elizabeth, take the N2 west and travel for about 230km, which should take you around 2.5 hours. From Johannesburg, your route would be to take the N1 and N9 south, with an estimated travel time of approximately 11 hours. The total distance you’ll be covering is approximately 1,150km.
By Air:
Travel from Cape Town to Plett with CemAir. Depart from Johannesburg to Plett with CemAir. Journey from Johannesburg to George with SAA, SA Airlink, Kulula, or Mango. Take a flight from Cape Town to George with SAA, SA Airlink, Kulula, or Mango. Travel from Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth with SAA, SA Airlink, Kulula, or Mango.
Fat Biking, Fish Eagle Transport & Tours, Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours, and Central Beach Traders are all popular attractions in the area.
Plettenberg Bay is well-known for its warm yet enjoyable summers and damp but mild winters. The region experiences almost constant sunshine throughout the year, with summers (October-March) reaching temperatures of up to 27°C (80.6°F) and occasionally even reaching the mid-thirties Celsius (mid-nineties Fahrenheit). Winter in Plett follows the typical pattern of the Cape Coastal area, alternating between mild, clear days and cold, rainy days during the rainy season. As the day progresses, one can expect to change clothes from the cool dawn to the warm day and then to the cool night. However, you can be assured that overall, Plett’s weather will welcome you with a hospitable combination of sunshine and moderation.
