Eight Blue Flags and a Green Coast Award for Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay has once again proven its commitment to environmental excellence, proudly securing eight international Blue Flag Awards and a Green Coast Award for the 2025/2026 season.

The Blue Flag Awards are internationally recognized eco-labels granted to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating operators that meet strict criteria for environmental management, safety and accessibility, water quality, and environmental education.

These awards serve as a global benchmark, assuring visitors that the sites are maintained to the highest standards of sustainability and care. Complementing this recognition, the Green Coast Award celebrates natural, less-developed coastal areas that still uphold strong environmental and community values. In this instance,

Nature’s Valley received the Green Coast Award, highlighting its pristine character and commitment to responsible stewardship.

What the Awards Mean

• Blue Flag Awards: These are internationally recognized eco-labels given to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating operators that meet strict standards for:
  • Environmental management
  • Safety and accessibility
  • Water quality
  • Environmental education
• Green Coast Award: This recognition honors natural, less-developed coastal areas that still uphold strong environmental and community standards. In this case, Nature’s Valley received the award.

Recognised Beaches and Boats

Six of Plett’s iconic beaches have been awarded full Blue Flag status:

• Robberg 5
• The Waves
• Nature’s Valley
• Lookout
• The Dunes
• Singing Kettle

In addition, eco-marine operator Offshore Adventures received Blue Flag recognition for both its seal-swimming boats.

Nature’s Valley also earned a Green Coast Award, celebrating its pristine, natural character and sustainable management.

Plettenberg Bay has been awarded 8 international Blue Flag Awards for the 2025/2026 season and a Green Coast Award for Nature’s Valley at the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards.

A Legacy of Excellence

• Robberg 5 marks an impressive 16 years of Blue Flag recognition.
• Lookout Beach and Offshore Adventures each celebrate 11 years of consistent eco-leadership.

These milestones highlight Bitou Municipality’s long-standing dedication to safe, clean, and environmentally responsible coastal spaces.

Impact on Community and Tourism

Beyond prestige, each Blue Flag raised fuels local growth:

• Guesthouses, restaurants, and beach services benefit from increased tourism.
• Families and livelihoods are strengthened through eco-tourism opportunities.
• The awards reinforce Plett’s reputation as a world-class coastal destination.

As Plett Tourism CEO Patty Butterworth explained:

Each Blue Flag raised brings more than just recognition; it also brings increased opportunity. From local guides and guesthouses to restaurants and beach services and activities, the award fuels a ripple effect of growth that strengthens families, livelihoods, and the heart of Bitou,” said Plett Tourism CEO Patty Butterworth.

These awards are more than symbols—they are a powerful endorsement of Bitou’s environmental stewardship and a promise to visitors that Plettenberg Bay remains a place of natural beauty, community pride, and sustainable tourism.