The Best Beaches in Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay is famous for its beaches — a roughly 35km stretch of Garden Route coast that earned the town eight international Blue Flag awards for the 2025/26 season, plus a Green Coast Award for Nature’s Valley. Whether you’re after safe family swimming, a long sandy walk or a quiet spot to watch the whales, here’s our guide to Plett’s best beaches — and which one suits your day.

Central Beach

Right in the heart of town, Central Beach is Plett’s busiest and most thoroughly patrolled beach. It’s sheltered, easy to reach and within walking distance of shops and restaurants — the safe, convenient choice for families, and a lovely spot to watch the boats and, in winter, whales just offshore.

Robberg Beach & Robberg 5

A long, wide stretch of white sand running below the Robberg Nature Reserve, this is the beach for proper walks. The western end, Robberg 5, is a Blue Flag beach — celebrating 16 years in the programme — and a favourite for swimming and sundowners near the Beacon Isle.

Lookout Beach

One of Plett’s most popular beaches and a Blue Flag holder for over a decade, Lookout has good surf, a long stretch of sand towards the Keurbooms lagoon, and the well-known Lookout Deck restaurant right above it — perfect for lunch with a view.

Keurboomstrand

About 10 minutes east of town, Keurboomstrand is quieter and more laid-back, with the Keurbooms River lagoon nearby for paddling and canoeing. The Dunes and Singing Kettle beaches here are among Plett’s Blue Flag-awarded spots — ideal for families wanting a calmer day.

Nature’s Valley

A scenic half-hour drive east through the Tsitsikamma, Nature’s Valley is where indigenous forest meets the sea. It’s tranquil, unspoilt and holds a Green Coast Award — a beautiful day trip for forest walks, a swim in the lagoon and a picnic well away from the crowds.

Which beach for what?

• Families & safe swimming: Central Beach or Keurboomstrand.
• Long walks: Robberg Beach, below the nature reserve.
• Surfing & a beachfront meal: Lookout Beach.
• Peace & nature: Nature’s Valley.

Wherever you base yourself, you’re never far from the sand. Several of our self-catering rentals are within easy walking distance of the beach. Browse our properties and book direct with us for the best rate — and have a look at our things to do in Plett while you plan your trip.