Beacon Island - Image 1
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Beacon Island

4.5
·3k reviews·Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Vibrant family resort with stunning ocean views, lively entertainment, and a prime Plettenberg Bay location.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

December - January

Peak holiday season fun

CrowdHigh
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Beacon Island - Image 1

Beacon Island

Best Time

December - January

Peak holiday season fun

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vibrant family resort with stunning ocean views, lively entertainment, and a prime Plettenberg Bay location.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"All rooms have a beautiful view, the staff are super friendly and helpful. Lots of activities and entertainment on offer."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛡️ Watch Out for Seagulls!

These cheeky birds are notorious for stealing food, so keep your snacks secure! :bird:

🚗 Courtesy Market Shuttle

The resort offers a courtesy ride to local markets for convenient shopping. :minibus:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oceanfront Views

Oceanfront Views

All rooms

Wake up to breathtaking Atlantic Ocean vistas from every room, often with chances to spot dolphins and whales.

Reddit
Family Entertainment

Family Entertainment

Kids' room and entertainment areas

A dedicated supervised kids' room and engaging evening entertainment make it a hit for families.

Reddit
Heated Pools & Spa

Heated Pools & Spa

Resort grounds

Enjoy three heated pools, a sauna, and a posh spa for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

Reddit
Batavia Mutiny Site

Batavia Mutiny Site

Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park

Explore the historic site of the 1629 Batavia mutiny, accessible via a new jetty and interpretive signage.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Peak Season

Beacon Island Resort accommodation, especially during December and January, sees prices surge significantly. Booking well in advance is crucial to secure your preferred dates and potentially better rates for this popular family getaway. Instagram

Embrace the Island Vibe

While some rooms might need a refresh, the stunning ocean views and lively entertainment at Beacon Island Resort are consistently praised. Prepare for a vibrant atmosphere and be mindful of opportunistic seagulls eyeing your snacks! Reddit

Best Times

When
December - January
Why
Peak holiday season fun
Crowd
High
When
Off-peak weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, better rates
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Beacon Island, Plettenberg Bay. #roughseas #roughsea #plett #plettenberg #plettenbergbay #westerncape
@jou_ma_se_favourite_dj
16.8K likes • 1.2M views

🛡️ Watch Out for Seagulls!

These cheeky birds are notorious for stealing food, so keep your snacks secure! Reddit :bird:

🚗 Courtesy Market Shuttle

The resort offers a courtesy ride to local markets for convenient shopping. Reddit :minibus:

Relax, rejuvenate, and unwind at Beacon Resort's natural hot springs 🌿✨ With five levels of temperature to suit your comfort, our soothing hot springs offer the perfect escape to melt stress away. It’s time to treat yourself to the ultimate retreat.🌞💆‍♀️ Book your trip today and experience pure relaxation. 🌿💧 #BeaconResort #BeaconResortSelangor #BeaconResortSelangorPrice #HargaBeaconResort #Beaco...
@beacon.resort
2.6K likes • 172K views
Beacon Island Resort , nestled along the coast, offers a serene escape with stunning ocean views. Whether you're an early riser for beach walks or prefer poolside relaxation, the resort caters to all.
southernsuntimesharing
183 likes • 18.5K views

🍽️ Dining Variety

Two restaurants offer diverse options, but wine can be pricey. Meals are extra. Reddit :forkandknifewithplate:

♿ Wheelchair Friendly

The resort is well-equipped for accessibility, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. Reddit :wheelchair:

Restaurant review : 📍Beacon Island hotel . Service: 4/10- waiter hardly checked on or cleaned our table Food : 6/10- salmon was offish ,complained they insisted it’s fresh . Ambiance/ aesthetic :10/10 Absolutely breathtaking taking . #restuantreview #foodiegram #beaconisland #hotelexperience #restaurant #restauntexperience #foodblogger #foodvlogs #minivlog #restauntblogger #plettenbergbay #gard...
soldbyboity
159 likes • 4.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛡️ Watch Out for Seagulls!

These cheeky birds are notorious for stealing food, so keep your snacks secure! Reddit :bird:

🚗 Courtesy Market Shuttle

The resort offers a courtesy ride to local markets for convenient shopping. Reddit :minibus:

🍽️ Dining Variety

Two restaurants offer diverse options, but wine can be pricey. Meals are extra. Reddit :forkandknifewithplate:

♿ Wheelchair Friendly

The resort is well-equipped for accessibility, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. Reddit :wheelchair:

🌊 Embrace the Rough Seas

Be prepared for potentially rough seas, a characteristic of the Plettenberg Bay coastline. TikTok :ocean:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Beacon Island Resort is celebrated for its stunning ocean views, lively entertainment, and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular choice for memorable getaways. While some areas could benefit from modernization, the friendly staff and spectacular location ensure a highly enjoyable experience for most guests. Be prepared for opportunistic seagulls and potentially higher prices during peak season.

"Really friendly staff and the rooms are smart with quality fittings, even a wine fridge. The food was fantastic in the restaurant, we were so impressed with the menu and the presentation.
Very safe for children, even a large children's room which is supervised
Three heated pools and sauna, bowls and tennis courts plus much more.
Very impressed with evening entertainment. Wheelchair friendly and a feeling of an up market hotel, plenty of huge glass panels so all can see the sea and dolphins and whales, I shall be back to enjoy again.
Cost is middle class, meals are extra and wine can be expensive."

Geoff Spurdens

"It feels like a real ISLAND! The location is perfect!! We saw dolphins for FREE lol. What a beautiful place to visit with the whole family. The stuff are soo respectful and polite. The place is super clean, like my kids put a white towel on the floor and it didn't have an ounce of dirt on it lol. THE ENTERTAINMENT IS THE BOMB!! I couldn't stop dancing. They kept the kids busy with indoor activities. My son has special needs (autistic) and they were very accommodating of him especially when it came to the food since he only eats certain types of food. They have a GYM, HELLO!!! You get a courtesy ride to the market to do your shopping.. Like words can't explain how amazing this place is. WATCH OUT FOR THE SEAGULS THOUGH, THEY WILL STEAL YOUR FOOD!!!! Lol. Go and experience it for yourself, it's a beautiful place - the atlantic ocean is beautiful!!!"

Lyrissa

"5/5 Stars: A Wonderful Family Getaway

We had an exceptional stay at this resort, which truly caters to families with its thoughtful amenities and services. The kids' entertainment and play rooms were a highlight, keeping our little ones engaged and happy throughout our stay. The indoor and outdoor swimming facilities were impeccably clean and a joy to use.

The resort's family-oriented atmosphere was evident in every aspect, from the staff's warm smiles to the variety of activities available. The two restaurants on site offered a range of options, from quick bites to delicious meals, ensuring that there was something for everyone.

While we loved every aspect of our stay, one suggestion for improvement would be the addition of family rooms with bunk beds for kids. The sleeper couches, while convenient, were not the most comfortable for our children.

The staff's helpfulness and accommodating nature made our stay even more enjoyable. We left with memories to cherish and, admittedly, a few tears – a testament to how much we loved our time here. We would highly recommend this resort to families looking for a wonderful getaway."

Solandre Sampson

What People Like

Stunning ocean views
Excellent family entertainment
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Rooms need updating
Expensive wine
Seagulls steal food

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Beacon Island is located in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. The nearest major airport is George Airport (GRJ), approximately a 1.5-hour drive away. From George Airport, you can rent a car or arrange for a shuttle service to Plettenberg Bay. If driving, Beacon Island is easily accessible via the N2 highway. TikTok

While Plettenberg Bay has some local bus services, direct public transport to Beacon Island itself might be limited. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services within Plettenberg Bay is generally recommended for ease of access. TikTok

The most common ways to travel from Cape Town to Beacon Island (Plettenberg Bay) are by flying into George Airport (GRJ) and then driving, or by taking a scenic drive along the N2 highway, which takes about 6-7 hours. TikTok

The resort offers a courtesy ride to local markets. For other attractions, it's advisable to arrange transport through the hotel concierge or use local taxi services. Reddit

From the N2 highway, take the Plettenberg Bay turn-off. Follow the signs towards the town center and then towards the coastline. Beacon Island is prominently located on the coast. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Beacon Island is primarily a resort and hotel. Entry to the resort grounds and its amenities is typically for guests. If you are referring to Beacon Island in the Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park, access is managed with a newly installed jetty and interpretive signage, suggesting a controlled entry. Instagram

As a resort, Beacon Island operates 24/7 for guests. However, specific facilities like restaurants, the spa, and entertainment venues will have their own operating hours, which are best confirmed directly with the resort. Instagram

Prices vary significantly based on the season and room type. For example, a 4-sleeper room can range from R16,000 in early December to over R44,000 during the peak Christmas/New Year period. Instagram

Generally, access to the resort's facilities is for guests. However, the surrounding coastline and beaches are public. If referring to the historic Beacon Island in Western Australia, access is managed for exploration. Instagram

Specials and package deals are sometimes available, especially during off-peak seasons. It's recommended to check the resort's official website or contact them directly for current offers. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The resort boasts three heated pools, a spa, gym, tennis courts, and bowls. Evening entertainment is a highlight, and there are supervised indoor activities for children. Reddit

Yes, all rooms at Beacon Island are designed to offer beautiful bay views, with many guests reporting sightings of dolphins and whales from their rooms. Reddit

Absolutely! It's highly recommended for families, featuring a large, supervised children's room and engaging entertainment. Some guests suggested family rooms with bunk beds would be an improvement over sleeper couches. Reddit

The resort has a lively and up-market feel, with a strong emphasis on family fun and entertainment. It's known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal location. InstagramReddit

There are two restaurants on-site offering a range of dining experiences. While the food is generally well-regarded, some guests have noted that wine can be expensive and meals are an additional cost. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire coastline offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. The resort's architecture, pools, and ocean views provide excellent backdrops. Instagram

Yes, guests frequently report seeing dolphins and whales from the resort, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife photography. Remember to be respectful of the animals. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or filming may require prior permission from the resort management. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant blue of the ocean is still striking. Instagram

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both landscapes and potential wildlife sightings. A wide-angle lens can be great for the resort's architecture and expansive ocean views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Beacon Island Resort is a top choice for families, consistently earning rave reviews for its child-centric amenities. The supervised kids' room and engaging evening entertainment are major draws, ensuring little ones are kept happy and occupied. Reddit The resort's multiple heated pools are also a hit, providing fun for all ages regardless of the weather. Reddit

While the resort excels in family offerings, some guests have suggested that family rooms with dedicated bunk beds would enhance comfort over sleeper couches. Nevertheless, the accommodating staff and the overall family-friendly atmosphere make it a highly recommended destination for a memorable family getaway. Reddit

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

Beacon Island Resort can be a significant investment, especially during peak seasons like December and January, where prices for a 4-sleeper room can exceed R40,000. Instagram To make it more budget-friendly, consider visiting during the off-peak weekdays when rates are considerably lower. Reddit

While meals and drinks are extra and wine can be expensive, the resort does offer a courtesy ride to local markets, which can be a cost-saving option for snacks and essentials. Reddit The free dolphin and whale sightings are a fantastic bonus that adds immense value without extra cost. Reddit

couples

For couples seeking a vibrant getaway with stunning ocean views, Beacon Island Resort offers a lively atmosphere. Enjoy romantic strolls along the coast, indulge in spa treatments, or simply relax by the heated pools with a drink in hand. Instagram The resort's upscale ambiance and beautiful setting provide a great backdrop for a couple's retreat. Instagram

While the resort is heavily geared towards families, couples can still find moments of tranquility, especially during off-peak times or by seeking out quieter areas of the resort. The breathtaking sunsets over the ocean are particularly romantic. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Beacon Island Resort Experience

Beacon Island Resort in Plettenberg Bay is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and stunning oceanfront location. Guests consistently praise the lively entertainment and the breathtaking views from every room, often accompanied by sightings of dolphins and whales. The resort offers a range of amenities including three heated pools, a spa, and a gym, making it a comprehensive destination for relaxation and fun. InstagramReddit

While the resort generally receives high marks, some reviews suggest that certain areas, particularly bathrooms, could benefit from upgrades. Despite this, the friendly and helpful staff and the overall vibrant ambiance contribute to a memorable stay. The resort's commitment to family fun is evident in its supervised children's room and engaging activities, though some guests have noted that family rooms with bunk beds would be a welcome addition. Reddit

For those seeking a dynamic holiday experience with a focus on entertainment and coastal beauty, Beacon Island Resort delivers. Be prepared for the energetic vibe and the occasional opportunistic seagull, but rest assured that the spectacular setting and dedicated service are key draws for repeat visitors. TikTokReddit

A Glimpse into Maritime History: Beacon Island, Abrolhos

Beyond the popular resort, Beacon Island also holds a significant place in maritime history, particularly concerning the infamous Batavia mutiny of 1629. Located within the Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park, this island offers a haunting glimpse into one of Australia's most dramatic early colonial events. Instagram

Visitors can now respectfully explore this historical site thanks to a newly installed jetty, walking trail, and interpretive signage. This allows for a deeper understanding of the tragic events that unfolded here, providing a stark contrast to the leisure activities associated with other Beacon Islands. Instagram

This historical Beacon Island serves as a poignant reminder of the perils faced by early seafarers and the complex narratives embedded in Australia's past. It's a destination for those interested in history, shipwrecks, and the darker chapters of exploration. Instagram

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