Plettenberg Bay Beaches and the Robberg Peninsula Walk
Plettenberg Bay sits about 30 minutes east of Knysna along the N2, and it’s one of those day trips our guests at Knysna Paradise Guesthouse keep coming back to rave about. Between the beaches and the Robberg walk, you can easily fill a full day here — or stretch it into two if you’re smart about it.
Robberg Nature Reserve: The Main Event
The Robberg Peninsula is a national monument and a marine protected area, and the walk around it is the best coastal hike on the Garden Route. There are three route options, all starting from the same car park:
- The Gap (2km, ~45 min): A quick loop to the sandbar and back. Good for families with small kids.
- Witsand (5.5km, ~2 hours): Down to the seal colony viewpoint and the dune field. This is the sweet spot for most visitors.
- The Point (9km, ~4 hours): The full circuit around the peninsula. Steep in places, exposed in others, absolutely worth it.
Expect seals, dolphins, and — in winter and spring — southern right whales breaching offshore. Carry water, wear proper shoes, and don’t underestimate the wind. The reserve gates close at 5pm, and no one is allowed to start the Point route after 2pm. Entry is cash or card at the gate.
The Beaches
Plett’s beaches each have their own personality, so pick according to your mood:
- Robberg Beach: The long, unbroken stretch right below the peninsula. Great for morning walks, swimming, and sunsets.
- Lookout Beach: Central, patrolled in season, and close to the restaurants on the lagoon side.
- Central Beach: Where the lagoon meets the sea. Busy, lively, lifeguards on duty over December.
- Keurboomstrand: A 15-minute drive east. Quieter, wilder, and home to Enrico’s — a Plett institution for seafood right on the sand.
When to Go
Summer (December–February) is hot and busy — book accommodation and restaurant tables well ahead. Autumn and spring are the sweet spot: warm enough to swim, quiet enough to have Robberg Beach mostly to yourself. Winter is whale season and hiking weather, just pack a windbreaker.
Where to Stay
Plett is an easy day trip from Knysna, which means you can base yourself here and explore both towns. Our sister properties in Plett — Plett Beachfront Accommodation and Plettenberg Bay Guesthouse — are worth a look if you’d rather stay closer to the action. Otherwise, settle into Knysna Paradise Guesthouse, enjoy the lagoon views, and drive over for the day. We’re happy to pack you a picnic and point you in the right direction.
Knysna Paradise Guesthouse — 2026-10-09