There’s something magical about Plettenberg Bay in summer. The small coastal town offers a certain charm that can only be understood by experiencing it. The days are warm and inviting, the town is abuzz with holidaymakers and the festive energy is almost electric. Whether you’re visiting with kids, grandparents or friends, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. From wildlife encounters and wine tastings to festive markets and beachside relaxation, here’s your guide to making the most of the summer holidays in Plett.

Meet the Animals
Plett is home to some of the Garden Route’s best wildlife sanctuaries. Spend a day exploring Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, or Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, all of which are managed by SAASA; an award-winning animal welfare organisation with impeccable ethical credentials. Kids and adults alike will love walking through the free-flight aviaries at Birds of Eden,spotting big cats at Jukani or watching the antics of our primate cousins at Monkeyland – it’s a crowd pleaser for the whole family.

Tip: Combine two or three sanctuaries for a full-day outing – tickets can often be bundled.

Explore the Plett Wine Route
The Plett Wine Route offers a scenic and family-friendly wine experience, with eight commercial wine farms between Harkerville and The Crags. The area is known for its cool-climate wines and especially its Cap Classiques, which dominated the Amorim Awards last year. Many estates welcome children with open lawns, picnics, play areas and farm animals to keep them entertained. Make a stop at Kay & Monty Vineyards – our very own wine farm less than 30 minutes from Plett – a relaxed countryside wedding venue, tasting room and restaurant just outside town. Parents can sip on one of our boutique wines while kids run free on the lawns or visit the horses grazing nearby. We’ve even launched a new “juice pairing” experience for kids so they can join in the fun.

Family Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and let the kids roam the lawns while you enjoy the view.

Lunch under the Milkwoods at The Old Rectory
For families looking to unwind in town, The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa offers the perfect escape. Just a short stroll from Plett’s main beach, this beautifully restored heritage hotel is family-friendly and open to guests of all ages.

Lunch is served beneath the shade of ancient milkwood trees, where parents can unwind while little ones are comfortably catered for with high chairs, silicone utensils, and a dedicated kids’ menu designed to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tip: Escape for an hour or two to enjoy a spa treatment at The Old Rectory before rejoining the family for lunch.

Join Local Festive Events
Keep an eye on Barringtons, a beloved local brewery and restaurant that hosts some of Plett’s most lively community events. Their annual Christmas Celebration and summer line-up feature live music, markets and special menus – perfect for families looking to get into the holiday spirit. Check their events page for the latest updates.

Browse Plett’s Markets and Pop-Ups
The Christmas Market and New Year’s Eve Market at Old Nick Village are must-visits for holidaymakers. Browse handmade crafts, art and treats while live musicians set the tone. The kids can take part in creative workshops or meet Father Christmas, and there’s always a festive buzz in the air. For more pop-up markets, outdoor concerts, and family-friendly happenings, visit Plett Tourism’s events calendar.

Start the Day with a Secret Sunrise
Begin your morning with something truly unique: Secret Sunrise Plett. This silent disco-style guided movement session takes place on the beach at sunrise and is both uplifting and family-friendly. It’s a fun, feel-good way to connect, move and celebrate another day in paradise.

When: 29 December on Hobie Beach, keep a look out for more sunrise sessions over the festive period on the Plett Tourism site or social media.

Explore the Great Outdoors
No summer in Plett is complete without a visit to Robberg Nature Reserve. The shorter hiking loops (2km–5.5km) are perfect for families and reward you with sweeping coastal views and the chance to spot seals or dolphins from the cliff path. The reserve is open daily from 07:00 to 20:00 in summer (November to April), although we recommend going early in the morning or during the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring water, sun protection and binoculars to ensure a safe and enjoyable day out in nature.

Tip: Guests at The Old Rectory can request a picnic and some water to take with them on the hike – just chat to our team at the front desk and they’ll happily make the arrangements.

Make This Summer One to Remember
Whether it’s a family stroll through Robberg Nature Reserve, a long, lazy lunch at Kay & Monty, or enjoying the festive market at Old Nick Village, Plettenberg Bay offers something for every age and every kind of traveller.

Take it slow, savour the sunshine and experience the best of Plett this summer – where every day brings a new reason to stay a little longer.