Plett isn't known as a surfing destination, and that's exactly why many of us love it.
What we do have is a coastline that offers something for everyone. From first timers standing up on a board for the very first time, to experienced surfers chasing a clean swell when conditions line up.
As a family of ocean creatures, surfing has always been one of our greatest passions. It shapes our weekends, influences where we spend our time and constantly reminds us why we choose to live here.
And when Plett decides to turn on the juice, there are plenty of places worth paddling out.
Best place to begin
If you've always wanted to try surfing, Plett is a surprisingly good place to learn.
One of the best places to start is Learn to Surf Plett at Robberg 5. Their experienced instructors teach everyone from eager young groms to first-time surfers well into their eighties.
The conditions are often forgiving; the water is beautiful and there are plenty of opportunities to build confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
Surfing can be a lifelong obsession, but everyone has to catch their first wave somewhere.
Before you paddle out
One thing every local learns quickly is that the ocean changes every day.
If you're visiting a new beach, always speak to a local surfer or chat with the lifesavers on duty before heading into the water.
Many of Plett's surf spots experience strong rip currents, particularly on outgoing tides and during larger swells. In the right hands, these currents can help you get out the back. In the wrong circumstances, they can become dangerous very quickly.
A little local knowledge goes a long way.
A Few favourite spots
The Robberg Peninsula provides one of Plett's greatest gifts to surfers.
It shields much of the bay from larger swells, meaning conditions can vary dramatically from one beach to the next. It can be five meters around the point and almost flat just a short distance away.
Most of the beaches along Robberg work best on a pushing tide, particularly within a couple of hours of the tide turning.
Here are a few local favourites.
The Wreck
Best suited to intermediate and experienced surfers depending on conditions.
Solar Beach
A versatile beach break that can accommodate everyone from beginners to experienced surfers.
Sanctuary
Another local favourite that works across a range of skill levels depending on swell size.
Robberg 5
A true family beach.
With lifesavers on duty through summer and a surf school right on the sand, it's one of the most accessible places to spend a day in the ocean. When conditions line up, more experienced surfers can enjoy some surprisingly fun waves too.
Robberg 1
A consistent option that can offer enjoyable conditions for surfers of varying abilities.
Central Beach
Perfect for swimming, body surfing and family beach days.
The Wedge
A favourite among bodyboarders when conditions are right. Fast, fun and best suited to more experienced riders.
Lookout
A great beginner-friendly option and one of the most enjoyable spots in town for bodyboarding and body surfing. When the swell arrives from the right direction, it can offer some surprisingly long rides.
More than just surfing:
Some of our favourite moments happen before the surf or long after it.
- The walk down through the coastal forest.
- Coffee in hand while checking the conditions.
- Drying off in the sun after a cold morning session.
- Watching friends catch waves while you're perfectly happy sitting on the rocks.
- Those moments are every bit as much a part of the lifestyle as surfing itself.
- And they're a big part of what inspired Salt in the first place.