Lookout Beach

Lookout Beach is the stretch of sand most first-time visitors to Plettenberg Bay end up on. It is a short drive or walk from the town centre and runs up to a river mouth at its far end, with the Keurbooms River and the Tsitsikamma Mountains in view across the bay. It is a long, wide beach, so even in busy weeks you can usually find space if you walk a bit.

What to expect

The river mouth end is the part families head for, because the water there forms shallow pools that small children can paddle in. Further along, the open sea has proper surf, which suits strong swimmers and surfers more than toddlers. There is a restaurant on the beach for lunch or a drink, so you do not have to pack a cooler.

Southern right whales visit Plettenberg Bay from about June to November, and dolphins turn up often, so keep looking out to sea.

Practical details

• Location: Plettenberg Bay, close to the town centre.
• Blue Flag status was held for the 2021 to 2022 season, the beach’s seventh year with the award.
• Facilities: a beach restaurant. Check current lifeguard hours and Blue Flag status locally, as both are reviewed each season.

Good to know

If Lookout is crowded in the December holidays, Plett has alternatives close by. Central Beach is the busiest, with lifeguards in season. Robberg Beach suits long, quiet walks, and Keurbooms Beach is bigger and wilder, with larger waves. The Keurbooms River Nature Reserve, about 8 km east of town, is good for canoeing, birding and forest walks.

Last updated 6 October 2026. Sources: Wesgro, Knysna-Plett Herald, World Travel Guide, George Herald.