Drone photography has changed our perspective on many things: how we enjoy a sunrise, how we watch whales and, even, how we watch a rugby match on TV. Here are ten magnificent aerial photos of Plettenberg Bay that may change the way you look at Plett and will certainly have you dreaming of your next coastal holiday!
BLOUKRANS BRIDGE
Those who haven’t visited the bridge may not be aware of the gorgeous views along the Bloukrans Gorge to the ocean beyond. This aerial photo illustrates the height of Bloukrans, which at 216m is the highest bridge in Africa, in addition to being the world’s highest commercial bungy jump!
CENTRAL BEACH AND THE BEACON ISLAND
Aside from Robberg Peninsula, the Beacon Island is arguably Plett’s most recognisable landmark. Named for the beacon that was originally erected on the island in the late 18th century, the Beacon Island was once a whaling station and now houses the popular Beacon Island Resort. Both the Beacon Island and Central Beach are the locations of many happy holiday memories in Plett.
THE WRECK ON ROBBERG BEACH
This photo is a testament to the often-crystal-clear waters of the bay. The Athina was a Greek fishing trawler that struck Whale Rock and foundered in 1967. The wreck lies off Robberg Beach and is a popular spot for snorkeling (as the wreck has created an artificial reef), surfing and stand-up paddling. It is often visible from the first lookout point on Robberg Peninsula and from the shores of Robberg Beach.
PLETT FROM ABOVE
Unless you have braved the skies with Skydive Plett, there’s a good chance that you’ve never seen Plettenberg Bay from this perspective before! Known to be one of the most beautiful drop zones in the world, skydivers enjoy views of Robberg, the beautiful coastline and green forests from above as they cruise back towards the earth. Perhaps a little intimidating but definitely worth it for this view!
ROBBERG AT SUNRISE
Another island, not the Beacon Island, is located on the western side of Robberg Peninsula, simply known as “The Island”. Accessed by the unusual tombolo beach (in which an island is attached to the mainland by a narrow piece of land such as a spit or sandbar), the walkways of the Island are a popular haunt for photographers (and you can see why!), trail runners and hikers. Robberg Peninsula is Plettenberg Bay’s iconic nature reserve, World Heritage Site and national monument.
PLETT’S MARINE LIFE
Drone photography and videography have done wonders for our ability to view marine life further offshore. In Plettenberg Bay, we often encounter three species of dolphin: Bottlenose, Humpack and Common Dolphin, and are fortunate to encounter them surfing the waves or feeding in the shallow waters off many of our beaches. To see them from above, as in this photo, is a wonderful gift.
ON THE KEURBOOMS RIVER
Plett holidays are all about making memories and a trip up the Keurbooms River is usually one for the books. Bordering the Keurbooms Nature Reserve, visitors can boat or paddle up the river, stopping at any number of riverside beaches to enjoy a picnic, to swim and birdwatch. Adventurous travellers should look out for the popular jumping rock!
ON THE LAGOON
The waterways of Plettenberg Bay offer a myriad of watersport adventures including fishing, kite-surfing, paddling and stand-up paddling. The Bitou and Keurbooms rivers meet to form the meandering Keurbooms Lagoon, a birding hotspot that is enjoyed by many Plett residents and visitors.
SAIL AWAY IN PLETT
Most of us would rather be on the yacht and not looking down on it! Visitors can enjoy the luxury and serenity of a sail around the bay, visiting the seal colony, swimming and spotting dolphins. Those looking for a bit more excitement in their sailing will enjoy the annual Classic Beach Regatta.
ENDLESS VIEWS IN BLUE
Standing on our beautiful Robberg Peninsula, with views stretching across the bay to the blue Tsitsikamma Mountains beyond, will make you feel like you’re flying! It’s also possible to spot Great White Sharks cruising along the seal colony below. Robberg is a World Heritage Site, with rocks dating back 120 million years, a cascading sand dune, island, Fynbos and exceptional bird and plant life.