Robberg Peninsula, a declared National Monument and World Heritage Site, boasts a fascinating geological history dating back 100 million years. Its rugged cliffs and ancient rock formations tell a story of millennia, forming a dramatic backdrop to Plettenberg Bay’s vibrant marine ecosystem. As a crucial part of South Africa’s Marine Protected Areas (MPA), Robberg provides a sanctuary for a diverse array of marine life, including various fish species, dolphins, and, most notably, the popular colony of Cape Fur Seals.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome guests aboard ‘Oceanic’ for our seal viewing tours along Robberg,” says Jaco Kruger, Owner of Offshore Adventures. “At this time of year, the bay is teeming with marine life and a seal viewing tour to Robberg offers an unparalleled immersive experience of the bay. Our guests can get up close to the playful seals of Robberg and truly appreciate the sheer natural beauty and ecological significance of the Robberg Peninsula.”

The Cape Fur Seal colony at Robberg is a highlight of the tours, providing a captivating spectacle of these playful and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. Offshore Adventures’ experienced guides offer insightful commentary on the seals’ behaviour, the history of Robberg, and the vital role the MPA plays in protecting this precious environment. The stunning beauty of the peninsula, with its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and diverse birdlife, makes every trip an unforgettable photographic and educational journey.

Robberg Peninsula, a declared National Monument and World Heritage Site, boasts a fascinating geological history dating back 100 million years. Its rugged cliffs and ancient rock formations tell a story of millennia, forming a dramatic backdrop to Plettenberg Bay’s vibrant marine ecosystem. As a crucial part of South Africa’s Marine Protected Areas (MPA), Robberg provides a sanctuary for a diverse array of marine life, including various fish species, dolphins, and, most notably, the popular colony of Cape Fur Seals.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome guests aboard ‘Oceanic’ for our seal viewing tours along Robberg,” says Jaco Kruger, Owner of Offshore Adventures. “At this time of year, the bay is teeming with marine life and a seal viewing tour to Robberg offers an unparalleled immersive experience of the bay. Our guests can get up close to the playful seals of Robberg and truly appreciate the sheer natural beauty and ecological significance of the Robberg Peninsula.”

The Cape Fur Seal colony at Robberg is a highlight of the tours, providing a captivating spectacle of these playful and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. Offshore Adventures’ experienced guides offer insightful commentary on the seals’ behaviour, the history of Robberg, and the vital role the MPA plays in protecting this precious environment. The stunning beauty of the peninsula, with its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and diverse birdlife, makes every trip an unforgettable photographic and educational journey.

Enjoy 40% off selected self-catering accommodation, camping, and glamping at our breathtaking nature reserves in the Western Cape. Whether it’s dreamy, cosy cabin nights under starry skies or crisp morning hikes through magical landscapes, there’s no better time to unwind in nature.

Top reasons to plan your winter getaway with CapeNature:

• Tranquil stays in nature’s untouched beauty
• Scenic hiking, walking, birdwatching, and adventure activities
• Family-friendly and romantic escapes
• Your stay supports vital conservation efforts

Booking is easy – Explore participating reserves and book here. Visit to explore participating reserves and secure your spot. Read more here. T&Cs apply.

Before we begin: If you see a stranded animal, please report it to the Plett Marine Animal Stranding Network on 079 463 4837. Please save this number for the future.

The wild side of Robberg was recently the site of a heroic mission to rescue a stranded whale and, while the mission ultimately didn’t yield the desired result, those involved must be commended for their quick response, their dedication, collaboration and care for our marine animals – thank you. Below, CapeNature Marine Ranger, Chanel Visser shares the story in her own words.

“Strandings are rarely the result of one simple cause. Often, they involve a combination of issues. A sick or injured whale may lose strength or become disoriented, leading it into shallow water. Whales use echolocation and shallow sloping beaches like those along the southern Cape can confuse their sonar. In some species (not Humpbacks), whales strand together out of loyalty to one another, even if only one individual is in distress. 

Shifts in ocean temperature, prey movement, or even underwater noise pollution can cause whales to enter unfamiliar or dangerous areas.

This prestigious designation marks them as a leading dive operator committed to sustainability, ocean conservation, and eco-conscious diving practices.

PADI Eco Centers represent the highest standard in sustainable diving. They are the premier choice for divers, adventurers, and travel professionals seeking ocean-first, environmentally conscious operators. To be recognized as a PADI Eco Center, a dive center must demonstrate a strong, ongoing commitment to marine conservation and sustainable practices.

Pro Dive Plett joined the PADI AWARE Foundation Adopt the Blue program to take an active role in marine conservation and aligned themselves with Green Fins by becoming a certified member. Through Green Fins, they have embraced the Code of Conduct and continuously strive to improve their environmental performance. As part of our action plans, the dive centre has hosted and participated in local clean-up events and adopted environmentally friendly practices. Being part of the Green Fins Community Forum has also allowed them to exchange ideas with like-minded dive professionals and stay inspired to keep making positive changes.

This recognition reflects our dedication to PADI’s vision of achieving a balance between humanity and the ocean. From responsible diving practices to active participation in conservation efforts, the Pro Dive team works hard to protect and preserve our local marine environment in beautiful Plettenberg Bay.

“Becoming a PADI Eco Center means our guests can dive with confidence, knowing they are supporting an operation that puts the planet first. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to exploring the underwater world, you’re now part of a community working toward a healthier ocean future,” Pro Dive said in a statement.

You can expect to catch seasoned skilled circuit pros, Plett Vets and SA Champs who ride this wave in the quietness, to groms out to prove their drop knee skills and our more seasoned inspirational granny groms stoked to be part of this year’s line-up. This unique winter wave when it’s cranking is a full-on experience with massive, powerful, steep and unpredictable hollow waves breaking close to shore, off a backwash that can be super intense. Often described as the ”biggest and sweetest glory ride.”

As a contestant, you’ll need to know your business as some of SA’s top-ranked judges will be taking notes, with fabulous prizes on offer this year and bragging rights as a top dawg. An opportunity to ride the waves of previous pioneering legends such as – Wayne Craig, Sampi Kamffer, Nick Martin, Kade Dickens, Jess Robinson and Logan Harris. This year’s Plett boarding groms James McNicol and Taylor Duncan are on the radar, stoked and ready to rip. Joined by entrants from around SA in the junior, open, masters, ladies and drop knee divisions for bodyboarding and juniors and ladies in the surfing division, including local developmental teams. 

With a host of international surfers getting ready for the ‘J-Bay Open’, we may even have a few legends checking in on the festivities.

The action will be in the surf for sure but also on the beach as this is a full-on family event with slack lines for kids, Bitcoin treasure hunts, pop up stalls to browse, whale spotting and cleaning up the beaches. Along with food, beverages and weather-proof shelters for spectators should the day turn gnarly (which could be so exciting!) #plettitsafeeling.

In time-honoured tradition, the Triple Crown is back where competitors above 18 years must enter and perform well in three different categories – surfing, bodyboarding and in this year’s ‘mystery division’, singing karaoke. It’s a fun event with Surf Cafe stepping up and setting the stage for an open mic night (singing for your supper right?) where contestants have to balance their brilliance in the water by bringing energy and a full-on vibe after dark. Word on the street is that the granny groms are planning on coming in strong! You’ve been warned.

Sponsors drive our dreams and we thank Study Bitcoin for stepping up and leading the pack. With support from Plett Tourism, Bitou Municipality, Slops, Crush Surf, Surf Cafe, Seeff Property Group and the Bayview Hotel. With further contributions from Robberg Fine Foods, PJ Victor, MobivlVe, One2Love, Coastal Hire and Glow Lighting – plus multiple prize sponsors.

A reminder that the Plett Ocean Festival, in tandem with the ‘Classic’ is headlined by the Plett Marine Science Symposium. We get it – a ‘symposium’ can seem academic and there is indeed a highly respected and specialised line-up at the Marine Science Symposium. But the Plett version is customised to reach all levels of understanding. Attendees will leave each session empowered and well-informed to personally ‘do their bit’ for conservation. Flexible booking options mean you can choose your session, your day – or all three days, of jaw-dropping information and facts from the deep.

Other highlights on the Plett Ocean Festival calendar

• Hidden Gems, Secret Viewpoints and Local Stories with Plett Shark Spotters on Robberg Peninsula, daily. 

• Daily ocean and river kayaking, whale, dolphin and seal viewing, scuba diving, tours of the Tenikwa Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
• Welcoming the Whales, Burgers for the Bay, and Deep Blue parties for conservation
• Sand sculpting and a Winter Swim
• Rock pools by moonlight and pelagic birding
• Reef and beach cleanups and much, much more! 

The full programme is available and tickets are on sale via  www.plettoceanfestival.co.za.

On June 3rd, 2025, the local conservation organization, Orca Foundation, officially announced their inaugural sighting of migrating Southern Right Whales for the whale season. Since this initial observation, these magnificent marine mammals have been a prominent and dynamic presence in the bay.

Plettenberg Bay’s coastline offers unparalleled viewpoints from which to observe whales, complemented by six Blue Flag beaches that invite leisurely strolls while whales engage in their natural behaviors within the bay. 

The town has earned global recognition as a premier whale-watching destination, featuring two licensed boat operators: Ocean Safaris and Ocean Blue Adventures. These operators provide visitors with opportunities for safe, non-invasive encounters with the world’s largest mammals on expertly guided marine safaris.

The primary species encountered during Plett’s whale season include the Southern Right Whale and the highly acrobatic Humpback Whale. Additionally, the waters are home to bottlenose dolphins, resident Bryde’s whales, the endangered humpback dolphin, and, less frequently, common dolphins and orcas.

Plettenberg Bay recently marked its second anniversary as one of only ten global sites recognised as a Whale Heritage Area by the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA). As articulated by the WCA, “Whale Heritage Areas promote truly responsible whale and dolphin watching, supporting and promoting tourism that is sensitive to the environment, the welfare of the animals involved, and the livelihoods of local communities.” 

This designation underscores Plett’s commitment to sustainable tourism and marine conservation. Plettenberg Bay will formally welcome the whales at the opening of the Plett Ocean Festival, scheduled from July 4th to 13th, 2025. On 5th July, the ocean festivities get under way with a beach clean-up organised by CapeNature and Lookout Deck, painting a travelling mural, and, at the opening ceremony at Market Off Main, the unveiling of a poignant mother and calf sculpture by Malcolm Solomon.

The party will then take a dive back to Lookout Deck for a magical undersea event after dark, Deep Blue with a +Geluk electronic music experience. The following 9 days of the festival include the popular Wedge Classic bodyboarding contest, the Marine Science Symposium – aimed at interested and curious citizen scientists – rocky shore excursions, sand sculpting, scuba diving, marine safaris and more…

Patty Butterworth, CEO of Plett Tourism, commented, “We are delighted to witness the return of our migrating whales and other ocean guests for another season in our sheltered bay. With new insights anticipated from marine biologists at the Plett Ocean Festival’s Marine Science Symposium, we are optimistic for their continued prosperity. Plett’s recognition as a Whale Heritage Area is a testament to our responsible tourism practices, robust environmental awareness, and deep community involvement in preserving our invaluable natural heritage.”

“A Wedge wave is a meat grinder dreamed up by the devil himself. The first time you paddle out you may be thinking, “Dang, is my chiropractor covered in my medical plan?” Surfline 

Welcome to the thrill of the ‘Wedge Classic Surf & Bodyboarding Contest’ hosted by Plett Board Riders Association to be held at the Wedge Beach, one of SA’s favourite breaks. This is a major event at the 2025 Plett Ocean Festival and the anticipation is already bru’ing. 

You can expect to catch seasoned skilled circuit pros, Plett Vets and SA Champs who ride this wave in the quietness, to groms out to prove their drop knee skills and our more seasoned inspirational granny groms stoked to be part of this year’s line-up. This unique winter wave when it’s cranking is a full-on experience with massive, powerful, steep and unpredictable hollow waves breaking close to shore, off a backwash that can be super intense. Often described as the ”biggest and sweetest glory ride.”

As a contestant, you’ll need to know your business as some of SA’s top-ranked judges will be taking notes, with fabulous prizes on offer this year and bragging rights as a top dawg. An opportunity to ride the waves of previous pioneering legends such as – Wayne Craig, Sampi Kamffer, Nick Martin, Kade Dickens, Jess Robinson and Logan Harris. This year’s Plett boarding groms James McNicol and Taylor Duncan are on the radar, stoked and ready to rip. 

Joined by entrants from around SA in the junior, open, masters, ladies and drop knee divisions for bodyboarding and juniors and ladies in the surfing division, including local developmental teams. With a host of international surfers getting ready for the ‘J-Bay Open’, we may even have a few legends checking in on the festivities.

The action will be in the surf for sure but also on the beach as this is a full-on family event with slack lines for kids, Bitcoin treasure hunts, pop up stalls to browse, whale spotting and cleaning up the beaches. Along with food, beverages and weather-proof shelters for spectators should the day turn gnarly (which could be so exciting!) #plettitsafeeling.

In time-honoured tradition, the Triple Crown is back where competitors above 18 years must enter and perform well in three different categories – surfing, bodyboarding and in this year’s ‘mystery division’, singing karaoke. It’s a fun event with Surf Cafe stepping up and setting the stage for an open mic night (singing for your supper right?) where contestants have to balance their brilliance in the water by bringing energy and a full-on vibe after dark. Word on the street is that the granny groms are planning on coming in strong! You’ve been warned.

Sponsors drive our dreams and we thank Study Bitcoin for stepping up and leading the pack. With support from Plett Tourism, Bitou Municipality, Slops, Crush Surf, Surf Cafe, Seeff Property Group and the Bayview Hotel. With further contributions from Robberg Fine Foods, PJ Victor, MobivlVe, One2Love, Coastal Hire and Glow Lighting – plus multiple prize sponsors.

A reminder that the Plett Ocean Festival, in tandem with the ‘Classic’ is headlined by the Plett Marine Science Symposium. We get it – a ‘symposium’ can seem academic and there is indeed a highly respected and specialised line-up at the Marine Science Symposium. But the Plett version is customised to reach all levels of understanding. Attendees will leave each session empowered and well-informed to personally ‘do their bit’ for conservation. Flexible booking options mean you can choose your session, your day – or all three days, of jaw-dropping information and facts from the deep.

Under the guidance of MC Zandile Ndhlovu, you will be able to tap into talks and Q&A sessions about killer whales, seahorses, Plett seals and the rabies risk. White sharks are under the spotlight, along with penguins videoing one another, fossil trackways, why the BBC and Netflix were on location in our ‘hood, the sounds of Antarctica, the journey of turtles and a shark survivor’s story. It is going to be wild!  Bookings have been open for a few weeks now so don’t leave it too late (see details below).

From 4 to 13 July it’s on in Plett! The coming together of an involved community and visitors keen to be part of the waves of change. A Festival for everyone to get involved in ocean observation, conservation, preservation and action, locally and in a broader sense. With so much action on the go from day one. Checking out the Comp at the Wedge as contestants own the waves to exploring the shoreline, diving with pros, birding and sand sculpting, a guided moonlight beach meander at full moon, boat trips to spot whales and dolphins and tons of hikes to choose from on Plett’s stunning coastal trails. 

Bookings & Registration

Get tickets today and register for the Wedge Classic (limited entries) for this switched-on, pacey, fun, family-orientated, 10-day incredible Ocean Festival, as together we actively save our seas. Check it out – www.plettoceanfestival.co.za

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: 

●  Official hashtags: #plettitsafeeling #observeconservepreserve

●  FB: @PlettTourism | @plettoceanfestival

●  Twitter: twitter.com/Plett_Tourism

●  Instagram: www.instagram.com/pletttourism/

●  Websites: www.pletttourism.com | www.plettoceanfestival.co.za

●  Media Contact: Patty Butterworth | patty@pletttourism.com

Premier Whale Watching in a Pristine Setting

The primary species encountered during Plett’s whale season include the Southern Right Whale and the highly acrobatic Humpback Whale. Additionally, the waters are home to bottlenose dolphins, resident Bryde’s whales, the endangered humpback dolphin, and, less frequently, common dolphins and orcas.

A Recognized Whale Heritage Area

Plettenberg Bay recently marked its second anniversary as one of only ten global sites recognised as a Whale Heritage Area by the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA). As articulated by the WCA, “Whale Heritage Areas promote truly responsible whale and dolphin watching, supporting and promoting tourism that is sensitive to the environment, the welfare of the animals involved, and the livelihoods of local communities.” This designation underscores Plett’s commitment to sustainable tourism and marine conservation.

Welcoming the Whales at the Plett Ocean Festival

Plettenberg Bay will formally welcome the whales at the opening of the Plett Ocean Festival, scheduled from July 4th to 13th, 2025. On 5th July, the ocean festivities get under way with a beach clean-up organised by CapeNature and Lookout Deck, painting a travelling mural, and, at the opening ceremony at Market Off Main, the unveiling of a poignant mother and calf sculpture by Malcolm Solomon. 

The party will then take a dive back to Lookout Deck for a magical undersea event after dark, Deep Blue with a +Geluk electronic music experience. The following 9 days of the festival include the popular Wedge Classic bodyboarding contest, the Marine Science Symposium – aimed at interested and curious citizen scientists – rocky shore excursions, sand sculpting, scuba diving, marine safaris and more…

Patty Butterworth, CEO of Plett Tourism, commented, “We are delighted to witness the return of our migrating whales and other ocean guests for another season in our sheltered bay. With new insights anticipated from marine biologists at the Plett Ocean Festival’s Marine Science Symposium, we are optimistic for their continued prosperity. Plett’s recognition as a Whale Heritage Area is a testament to our responsible tourism practices, robust environmental awareness, and deep community involvement in preserving our invaluable natural heritage.”

For more information on whale watching opportunities in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, or to learn more about the Plett Ocean Festival and Marine Science Symposium, please visit www.plettoceanfestival.co.za.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

●  Official hashtags: #plettitsafeeling #observeconservepreserve

●  FB: @PlettTourism | @plettoceanfestival

●  Twitter: twitter.com/Plett_Tourism

●  Instagram: www.instagram.com/pletttourism/

●  Websites: www.pletttourism.com | www.plettoceanfestival.co.za

●  Media Contact: Patty Butterworth | patty@pletttourism.com

At some point, whether you’re 10 or 80, you hit that wall of adulting (because even 10- year-olds have days too!) and perhaps long to be a mermaid for a moment or channel your inner Jason Momoa and Aquaman because you can.

It’s all about the sea and the wonder and appreciation that we have for nature, at this year’s Plett Ocean Festival taking place in just over a month. A space to explore and step-up as ocean ambassadors (mermaids welcome), where it’s cool to make a splash #plettitsafeeling.

This year the festival is once again headlined by the Marine Science Symposium and SA’s longest-running boarding contest, The Wedge Classic supported by a ton of events and activities for kids and adults. A coming together of an involved community and visitors to Plett, keen to be part of the waves of change. A festival for everyone to get involved in ocean observation, conservation, preservation and action, locally and in a broader sense. Partnered by ocean-friendly supporters who believe in making a difference – the Beacon Island Resort, Checkers, Wesgro and CapeNature. 

The packed to the gills 10-day deep dive on this unique stretch of coastline, and biodiversity hotspot, officially starts on 5 July 2025 as we welcome the migrating whales.

Opening Day Highlights

@LookoutBeach | The “officialness” kicks off with a chilled yet super important family beach cleanup led by CapeNature and partnered by Lookout Deck. Stick around and get involved in painting a travelling mural, plus, be part of a human whale tail photo opp to be captured by a drone. 

@MarketOffMain | Celebrating Plett as a World Cetacean Alliance Whale Heritage Area, the unveiling for press and guests of a poignant mother and calf humpback whale sculpture by Malcolm Solomon takes place at the ‘Welcoming the Whales’ party with live entertainment, food stalls and bar service on tap. Everyone’s invited!

@LookoutDeck | Later in the day, join the magical ‘Deep Blue’ undersea event after dark, with SA’s best DJs who will be mixing until late!  

That’s only day one sea-people! 

There will be so much to do on the remaining 9 days from exploring the shoreline, diving with pros, birding and sand sculpting, a guided moonlight beach meander at full moon, boat trips to spot whales and dolphins and tons of hikes to choose from on Plett’s stunning coastal trails. All the while buzzing around the main events of the Symposium and Wedge Classic. 

Marine Science Symposium | 11-13 July

Booking Open!

A ‘symposium’ can seem academic and there is indeed a very respected and highly specialised element to the Marine Science Symposium. But the Plett version is customised to reach all levels of understanding. Attendees will leave each session empowered and able to personally ‘do their bit’. Baby steps with the potential for collective giant leaps, guided by experts in their field who understand that it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. 

Under the guidance of MC Zandile Ndhlovu, you will be able to tap into talks and Q&A sessions about killer whales, seahorses, Plett seals and the rabies risk. White sharks are under the spotlight, along with penguins (literally in the spotlight) videoing one another, fossil trackways, why the BBC and Netflix were on location in our ‘hood, the sounds of Antarctica, the journey of turtles and a shark survivor’s story. It is going to be wild! 

Wedge Classic Comp | 7-12 July

Registration Open!

This is super cool! Plett Board Riders Association is proud to present the ‘Wedge Classic Surf & Bodyboarding Contest’ at the Wedge beach, one of SA’s favourite breaks. Book your spot for bodyboarding – juniors, open, masters, ladies & drop knee and for surfers check out the juniors and ladies categories. New additions are the ‘Grom Games’ a two-hour fun and informative workshop to introduce the youngest wave riders to the stoke. Along with the granny groms who will be having a blast as they paddle out to catch the action.

Bookings & Registration

Get tickets today and registration on track for this switched-on, pacey, fun, family-orientated, 10-day incredible Ocean Festival, as together we actively save our seas.