4 Best Hotels in Plettenberg Bay, The Garden Route and the Little Karoo

About 3 km (2 miles) upstream from Keurboom Lagoon, this award-winning B&B has a tranquil location on the banks of the Bitou River. Rooms overlook a pretty garden and a quiet bird-rich and lily-filled pond. The decor is understated and soothing, with neutral pastels dominating. Breakfasts are delicious affairs with freshly baked breads, muffins, and other goodies, in addition to the usual fruit, cereal, and eggs. Bitou feels like it's in the middle of nowhere, but it's only a 10-minute drive from the center of Plettenberg Bay. Don't pass up the opportunity to explore the river in one of the available canoes.

Only 10 minutes away from the hubbub of Plettenberg Bay, this delightfully quirky lodge on the banks of the Bitou River combines an enchanting mix of African, Asian, and Polynesian decor. Each of the 16 suites in the lovely garden have a fireplace and a private balcony with expansive river and wetland views. Emily’s restaurant serves locally sourced produce, and there’s an innovative vegan and vegetarian menu. Simon’s Bar has breathtaking views, great cocktails, and yummy pizza.  

At this pleasant lodging overlooking Plett’s lovely Hobie Beach, you’ll soon be dipping your toes in the Indian Ocean. There are shared decks on the upper and lower levels, or go cliffside if you’d like a more intimate spot (but without the view). Take a dip in the plunge pool by indigenous milkwood trees. A small restaurant and bar complete this beach idyll, but if you want to stretch your legs, more restaurants, shops, and the spectacular Robberg Nature Reserve are close by.

This always-buzzing, warm, friendly hostel with some private rooms is light and bright and conveniently located near the middle of town. It's easy to find a sunny or shady spot in the garden to just relax with a book, and the lively bar is a great place to share adventures come evening. All in all, it's an excellent value and the private rooms offer a touch of affordable luxury. There's an information desk, and staff is happy to make recommendations and reservations, as well as drop you off at adventure activities like bungee jumping or attractions such as Monkeyland.