Life's a beach

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - From Nature's Valley on the outskirts of Bitou to Gericke's Point just west of Sedgefield, visitors to CX country are in for a treat as the area is arguably home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

PLETTENBERG BAY

Keurbooms

Regarded as one of the "wilder" and less populated beaches due to its vastness
Home to some surreal sand-sculpted boulder fields and a natural mini hole-in-the-wall marking the start of a great nature trail
One of the most popular Italian eateries south of Sicily makes it an absolute primo SA beach experience

Keurbooms. Photo: Ewald Stander

Lookout Beach:

One of Plett's most popular beaches with white sand, warm water and great views
Also includes the landmark Grand Africa Lookout Beach restaurant for a bite to eat
There are cool paddle pools for kids at the river mouth and excellent surf for the more adventurous

Central Beach

Often the buzziest beach with the most organised activities in Plett
Considered a family beach
There is a launch site for marine safaris, dive charters and ocean kayaking tours
There are also beach-picnic sites along the Piesang River estuary flowing into the ocean

Central Beach. Photo: Ewald Stander

Robberg Beach

Popular for long walks, jogging, kayaking and paddle-skiing
Stretches for 4km between the Robberg Peninsula and the Beacon Island Hotel
A great spot for sightings of dolphins, whales and seals
At low tide it is possible to spot a piece of Plett history, the shipwreck of the Athena, a Greek trawler that sank there in 1967

KNYSNA

Noetzie

Worth every steep step up from, and down to this quaint little cut of paradise probably best known for its medieval castles hugging the surrounding cliff face
A great spot for whipping out a picnic basket somewhere along the riverbanks leading to the ocean as the fish eagles' call rings out overhead

Coney Glen

A series of spectacularly rugged rock-fringed coves on the south side of Knysna's eastern head make it the most unsung beach destination on the Garden Route
A sprawling lawn with constructed braai posts serves as a launching pad for the rickety wooden pathways leading to the rock pools and beaches

The rocky outcrops at Coney Glen make for spectacular vantage points. Photos: EL Rorke Photography

Buffalo Bay

One of the most-loved beaches on the Garden Route, situated in the Goukamma Nature Reserve
Buffs, as it is affectionately known, offers great natural entertainment for all ages, including great surfing opportunities
There are also braai places along the beach towards the caravan park
The western side, at Wildside Beach, towards the river mouth, offers spectacular sunsets over the sea
Visitors can also enjoy a 6km walk to Brenton-on-Sea

Brenton-on-Sea

A grand expanse of shoreline bordered by lush indigenous forest and the powerful Indian Ocean
Ideal for long lazy days of tanning and/or fishing from the rocks
Its magnificent scenery and spectacular sunsets can be seen from Brenton Blue Hotel deck
It is also dog-friendly and ideal for long walks

SEDGEFIELD

Swartvlei Beach

One of the most popular beaches both in (when there are lifeguards) and out of season
Its tidal pools make it perfect for snorkelling
Known for its strong rip currents and therefore swimmers must be cautious at all times and not swim alone

Swartvlei Beach. Photo: EL Rorke Photography

Myoli Beach

Quiet out of season and popular with dog walkers
Popular with families and young adults
There are lifeguards on duty in season
Strong rip currents are also common

Cola Beach

Usually a very quiet beach, but for the lone fisherman and thoughtful beach stroller
Access is high up with a long set of stairs down to the beach
It is a fine viewpoint to gaze upon the blue yonder

Central Beach in Plettenberg Bay.

Platbank Beach

The parallel landscape becomes increasingly untamed heading towards Platbank, Sedgefield's most secluded beach
It is accessible by foot from Myoli but can also be reached by car
Usually very quiet, and there are no lifeguards during the season. Tides and currents can be very strong at times

Goukamma Beach

This is one long (14km) stretch of unadulterated beauty that lies within the Goukamma Nature Reserve and marine protected area
Very few people venture here, making it the perfect beach to soothe the soul
In season, whales can be seen breaching along the coastline and dolphins feed here almost daily
The entire length of the beach is inaccessible during a spring high tide, so make sure you check the tide tables
Also a protected breeding ground for the African black oyster- catcher, so no dogs are allowed
Strong rip currents are present here

You can even access the stunning Gericke's Point from Swartvlei Beach. Photo: Andre Victor