The Plettenberg Bay overlooks the Robberg Nature Reserve and the estuary of the Bitou River. There are a number of nature reserves that have been se up to presrve the varied ecosystems in the area in addition to unique marine reserves, protecting soft coral reefs, dolphins, seals and a host of other marine life. The bay serves as a nursery to the Southern Right Whales which visit the Cape coast to calve in the winter and spring (July to December).
It also hosts one of the largest seagull breading colonies along the South African coast at the mouth of the Keurboom’s River. A delicate flower-shaped sea shell called a pansy shell is endemic to this part of the coast, and is used as the symbol representing the town. Looking for these shells on the beach is a popular activity amongst visitors and locals alike. Dolphins are frequently seen in the surf playing in the breakers whislt swimming from Keurbooms to Robbeberg and back.
Local vegetation varies from Cape Fynbos to indigenous forest further inland.
At night, Plettenberg Bay is alive with pubs, night-spots and fine restaurants. A wide range of accommodation offers luxury hotels, exclusive country retreats, cosy bed and breakfasts, self-catering chalets and excellent camping facilities.